comparing solar panel systems

[niki]

I have been trying to find something like consumer reports to rate pool systems. All I find are reviews basically by the people who sell them. Vortex seems good, but is more money than some. I want to get the most heat, and best product. I don't mind spending more but how do you tell. I read in one that you should not buy any that have to ship as they will leak at the welds. what gives?

[Naptown]

Have you tried Comsumer Reports?
Unleas the factory is next to your house they will need to be shipped.
The difference is how they are prepared and boxed for shipping.

[niki]

Well, I don't have a subscription and nothing came up with a search. I may try the library. So much talk about design of the panels, flat, round, finned or not, welded or cast as one etc, etc. Just wanted to be able and see a non biased comparison.

[J.P.M.]

Heating pool water with solar is pretty oow temp., low pressure, low tech and simple compared to solar DWH or space heating. Most of the components for such pool heating applications are plastic. Such components have been around for 20+ years and have generally shown to be fit for service. Many/most reliability and efficiency issues can often be traced to less than optimal design and installation methods or lack of maintenance issues.

As with most/all things solar, reducing the need for solar equipment is almost always more cost effective than adding solar equipment. For pool heating, before a pool heater, using a pool cover will keep the water warmer and also reduce the size (cost) of any subsequently added solar heating equipment.

Google pool heating and see what you get.