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Already Have Solar Installed? Did You Know You Can Heat Your Pool with It?

So, you have solar installed at your Central Florida home, but have you considered heating your pool with your system? If you haven’t, it’s a must!

One of the biggest benefits is that you can greatly reduce your swimming pool heating costs and when the chill of winter sets in, you can still take a dip in your pool. It’s a win-win!

Intrigued? Our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains why you should take advantage of heating your pool with solar today!

How Solar Pool Heaters Work

One of the best parts about having a solar system already installed is that it makes it easier to incorporate a solar heating system for your pool.

To produce warm water, a solar heater utilizes energy from the sun by using the following components:

• Solar collector: Pool water is circulated to be heated by solar rays in this device.
• Filter: The filter removes debris before the water is pumped through the solar collector
• Pump: This circulates water through the filter and collector then back to the pool.
• Flow control valve: This diverts pool water through the solar collector.

In essence, solar heaters work like this: pool water is routed through a filter before being heated in a solar collector and returned to the pool. In hot climates like Florida, the collector can also be utilized to chill the pool during peak summer months by cycling water through the collectors overnight.

The kind of solar heater that you choose will ultimately depend on your climate, and how often you want to heat your pool. Since it rarely freezes here in Florida, we recommend unglazed collectors. These collectors don’t have a glass covering, aka “glazing.” Instead, they have a heavy-duty rubber or plastic that is treated with an ultraviolet light inhibitor that helps extend the life of your solar panels.

Benefits of Using a Solar Pool Heater

One of the biggest benefits of installing a solar pool heater is that you can set the temperature that you want your pool to be, and the sun’s rays will do the rest! The automatic controller will sense when the sun is shining enough to heat your pool, and then it will get to work! It will begin to heat the water as it flows through each panel, then it will make its way back into your pool, and then the process will start again until your desired temperature has been reached.

Some other benefits include:

• Of course, you already know this if you have a solar system, but solar energy is free! Plus, since it is a renewable energy source, your monthly bill will not be susceptible to rising gas and electrical prices.
• Wither solar pool heaters, there are minimal monthly operating costs as opposed to using traditional pool heaters. If you already have a solar set up it’s a no-brainer!
• Traditional pool heaters often can take several hours to heat your pool, but a solar heater will heat your pool whenever the sun is shining and it will be ready whenever you are, even during Florida’s chilliest months.
• Solar panels have a long lifespan and their savings over their lifetime far outweigh the initial investment.
• Unlike traditional pool heaters, solar pool heaters do not contribute to pollution. So if you’re looking to cut your carbon footprint, then going solar to heat your pool is a great choice!

 Keep Reading > 7 Common Solar Buying Mistakes to Avoid

Heat Your Pool with Solar Power

As you can see, if you already have a solar system installed, it can be a great idea to incorporate a solar pool heater to keep your pool warm and ready year-round!

Ready to learn more about solar pool heaters? Call Solar Bear Orlando to get started today; (727) 471-7442!

TECO’s New Bill Means Rising Electric Prices. Save Money Now With Solar

Here’s a frustrating reality check for Tampa Bay residents: Tampa Electric (TECO) wants to raise your rates…again. We’re talking about a potential increase of up to $19.21 per month starting in 2025, and that’s just the beginning. The proposed hike includes a significant bump in the fixed customer charge, plus additional costs for fuel, nuclear recovery, and more.

If you’re like most people, your budget is already feeling the pinch of inflation. The last thing you need is another bill going up. But before you resign yourself to higher electricity costs, consider this: there’s a way to fight back. The answer is solar energy.

Solar Energy Is Your Shield Against Rising Rates

Solar energy isn’t just about being eco-friendly; it’s about taking control of your energy costs. By installing solar panels on your home, you can generate your own electricity and significantly reduce your reliance on TECO. That means when their rates go up, yours stay the same. There are so many other benefits of going solar, too.

• Predictable Energy Costs.Say goodbye to the uncertainty of fluctuating energy prices. With solar, you lock in a fixed rate for your electricity, protecting you from future TECO hikes.
• Long-Term Savings.While there’s an upfront investment in solar panels, the long-term savings are substantial. You’ll save money on your monthly bills, and your system will likely pay for itself over time.
• Increased Home Value.Studies show that homes with solar panels sell faster and for more money than those without. It’s an investment that benefits you now and in the future.
• Environmental Impact.Solar energy is clean and renewable, reducing your carbon footprint and contributing to a healthier planet.

Don’t Wait for TECO to Take Control

The time to act is now! Don’t wait for those rate increases to hit your wallet. Take control of your energy future and invest in a solar system for your Tampa Bay home. Solar Bear of Tampa is here to help. We’re your local experts in solar energy, offering customized solutions and hassle-free installation. Let us show you how solar can save you money, increase your home value, and provide peace of mind in the face of rising energy costs.

Contact Solar Bear today at (727) 471-7442 for a free consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more sustainable future. Don’t let TECO control your energy bills—take charge with solar!

Can Solar Batteries Be Stored Outside?

If you are planning on investing in solar batteries to supplement your solar panel system, then you must also consider where you are going to store the batteries. You might wonder if they should be stored inside or outside. That’s a great question!

Since heat can impact the performance of solar batteries, there are specific things to keep in mind when storing them outside. Our team at Solar Bear Orlando explains what you need to know.

First, What is a Solar Battery?

Solar batteries are devices that allow you to store the excess energy that is generated by your solar panels. Essentially, they work with your solar system to capture the surplus energy that is produced during sunny days when the system’s output is at its peak. This allows you to use this excess energy on days when it’s cloudy, at night, or during inclement weather.

Should Solar Batteries Be Stored Inside or Outside?

With Florida’s heat, this is a fair question to ask. Whether you store them inside or outside depends on several things, including:

• The type of battery
• The climate where you live
• Space considerations
• Safety precautions

Let’s break it down a little more.

Battery Types

The type of solar battery that you have is one of the most important considerations.

Lithium-ion batteries are usually better for indoor installation as they can get overheated and can be impacted by fluctuations in temperature, whether hot or cold.

Climate

If you live in an area with very hot temperatures, (hello, Florida) then installing the batteries indoors is recommended. Extreme heat or cold can greatly impact the solar battery’s efficiency and lifespan.

Space Considerations

How much space you have to store solar batteries will impact the decision to store the solar battery inside or outside. If you have extra space inside, storing them inside the house is a given. But if you are tight on space, it may become necessary to install them outside, but be aware that there are special protective measures you must follow if you do so.

Safety Precautions

As with anything with solar installation, safety is a crucial consideration when it comes to solar battery storage. Lithium-ion batteries can pose fire risks if they are exposed to hot temperatures or if they are damaged, making outside installation a challenge.

Whether inside or out, all solar batteries should be installed in well-ventilated areas away from any flammable materials. Also, if you do choose to install them outside, ensure that they are enclosed in a weatherproof area that is dedicated to battery storage, which will protect them from the elements. 

Installing Solar Batteries Outside

Even though we generally don’t recommend installing solar batteries outside, some can be, but there are things to consider before doing so.

Some lithium-ion batteries can be suitable for outdoor use. If you decide to install them outside, they must be protected from Florida’s sun, rain, and other weather. Adequate ventilation is also important to prevent heat build-up, and the addition of cooling mechanisms may be necessary.

Related > How Do I Charge My EV Using Solar?

Central Florida Solar Installations

If you live in Central Florida and are interested in installing solar panels or a solar battery system, reach out to our team at Solar Bear Orlando. We can’t wait to help you harness Florida’s ample sunshine to power your home, electric vehicles, and more!

Contact us for a quote today at (727) 471-7442!

5 Ways Solar Can Help Your Home Become Ready for Summer

Let’s be real, summer in Tampa Bay is a whole mood. It’s sunshine, beach days, backyard barbecues, and pool parties galore. But it’s also sweltering heat, humidity that could rival a sauna, and energy bills that can make you sweat even more.

Luckily, there’s a solution that can not only keep you cool and comfortable but also power all those summer fun activities: solar energy. And no, we’re not just talking about powering your AC (though that’s a major perk!). Solar can also take your backyard oasis to the next level. Here’s how solar can help you beat the heat and maximize your summer fun:

1. Pool Party Paradise: Got a pool? Lucky you! But heating it can be a major energy suck. Solar pool heaters use the sun’s energy to warm up your pool water, saving you money and extending your swimming season. Imagine lounging in your heated pool on a crisp fall evening—that’s the magic of solar!
2. Hot Tub Heaven: Looking for a way to relax and unwind after a long day? A solar-powered hot tub is the ultimate indulgence. It heats your water naturally, so you can soak away your cares without worrying about skyrocketing energy bills.
3. Outdoor Lighting: Don’t let those summer nights end when the sun goes down. Solar-powered outdoor lights can illuminate your backyard, creating a magical ambiance for evening entertaining. Plus, you’ll never have to worry about tripping over cords or replacing batteries again.
4. Summer Kitchen Delight: Gearing up to grill in your outdoor kitchen? Solar panels can power your appliances, from refrigerators and grills to blenders and even pizza ovens. It’s a sustainable way to cook up delicious meals while enjoying the sunshine.
5. Cool and Comfortable Home: Of course, we can’t forget the biggest benefit of solar in the summer—keeping your home cool and comfortable. Solar panels generate electricity to power your air conditioning, reducing your reliance on the grid and slashing those energy bills.

The great thing about solar energy is that it’s not just about comfort and convenience. It helps homeowners save money and make a smart investment in their property value. By reducing your dependence on the grid, you’ll insulate yourself from rising energy costs and enjoy predictable monthly bills. Plus, with federal tax credits and other incentives, going solar can be even more affordable than you think.

Say Hello to Solar This Summer With Solar Bear of Tampa!

Solar Bear of Tampa is passionate about helping homeowners harness the power of the sun to create more sustainable, comfortable, and enjoyable lives. Whether you’re looking to heat your pool, power your hot tub, or simply cool down your home, we can help you design a custom solar solution that fits your needs and budget. Contact us today at (727) 471-7442 and let’s explore how solar energy can transform your home and lifestyle!