Swimming Pool Heat Exchangers: How They Work and Types
Swimming pool heat exchangers are an essential component of any pool heating system. They work by transferring heat from a hot fluid to a cooler one, without the fluids coming into direct contact with each other. This process is known as indirect heat exchange and is necessary for safety reasons as well as for efficient heating. To help you learn more, we will explain in detail how swimming pool heat exchangers work and the different types available.
How Swimming Pool Heat Exchangers Work
Heat exchangers for commercial swimming pools work by using a heat source, such as a boiler or solar panels, to heat a fluid, typically water or a glycol solution, which is then circulated through the heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is a tube or shell-and-tube design with two separate channels, one for the hot fluid and one for the pool water. The hot fluid flows through the inner channel, while the pool water flows through the outer channel. As the two fluids pass each other, heat is transferred from the hot fluid to the pool water, warming it up.
The heat exchanger itself is made from a material that is a good conductor of heat, typically copper, titanium, or stainless steel. Copper is the most common material used as it is affordable, easy to work with, and has good heat transfer properties. However, titanium and stainless steel are more durable and resistant to corrosion and can be used in more aggressive environments.
Types of Swimming Pool Heat Exchangers
There are two main types of swimming pool heat exchangers: shell-and-tube and plate heat exchangers. Both types work by the same principle of indirect heat exchange but have different designs.
Shell-and-Tube Heat Exchangers: These are the most common type of swimming pool heat exchangers. They consist of a shell, which is a cylindrical container with two end caps, and a bundle of tubes inside. The hot fluid flows through the tubes, while the pool water flows around the tubes inside the shell. Shell-and-tube heat exchangers are typically more expensive than plate heat exchangers but are more durable and can handle higher flow rates.
Plate Heat Exchangers: These are a more compact design and consist of a series of thin plates with small channels running through them. The hot fluid and pool water flow through alternate channels, allowing for efficient heat transfer. Plate heat exchangers are generally less expensive than shell-and-tube heat exchangers but can be more susceptible to fouling and may require more maintenance.
Features of Swimming Pool Heat Exchangers
Swimming pools (both chlorinated and salt water varieties), spas, hot tubs, whirlpools, Jacuzzis, and a wide variety of other water and pool applications all benefit from the use of heat exchangers. Picking the best heat exchanger for your needs is crucial.
For example, if you plan on installing a heat exchanger in a pool that uses salt water or chlorine, you’ll want to be sure it’s made of a corrosion-resistant material. The heat exchanger’s ability to self-clean and thus require less maintenance is another consideration when shopping for one. In addition, seek for heat exchangers with large channels, as these make it more difficult for hard water scales to accumulate and hence last longer.
Heat exchangers for swimming pools are an important part of any pool heating system, allowing for safe and efficient heat transfer. There are two main types of heat exchangers, shell-and-tube and plate heat exchangers, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Patriot Water Works is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and affordable supplier of swimming pool heat exchangers, with years of experience and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Why Choose Patriot Water Works?
Patriot Water Works is a leading supplier of swimming pool heat exchangers, offering a range of high-quality products that are designed to meet the specific needs of each customer. They have years of experience in the industry and has built a reputation as a trusted supplier of swimming pool heat exchangers and other water treatment solutions. In addition to offering a wide range of heat exchangers, they also provide services such as design and engineering support, technical assistance, and equipment repair and maintenance. With locations in Wilmington and New Castle, Delaware, Patriot Water Works is committed to providing their customers with high-quality products and exceptional service, making them a top choice for anyone looking for reliable and cost-effective water treatment solutions. Based out of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, they serve commercial and industrial clients across the US.
Patriot Water Works also design and install our own systems in addition to selling, installing, and servicing those from market-leading brands like Thermal Solutions, Lochinvar, Pentair, and Raypak.
Patriot Water Heating Co.’s AquAbilty Pool Heating Systems are revolutionizing the commercial aquatics market with their long-lasting, space-saving design, great efficiency, and low cost. All utilizing standard, non-proprietary components that can be installed and maintained by any licensed plumber. These systems are custom built for each individual installation; they are completely self-contained and ready to be wired, vented, and connected to the pool’s heating system. Their systems can be tailored to meet a wide variety of needs, from heating household water to warming homes to melting snow.
In order to keep your pool open throughout the colder months, Patriot Water Works offer pool heating solutions for pools of any size. Their sled-mounted devices work just as well, if not better, on larger bodies of water. The exceptional 5-year warranty for all AquAbilty Systems includes the same 5-year period of twice-yearly maintenance checks. There is no job too big or too small. Contact them today to schedule a consultation.