LOVE IT!!! I installed this June, but by the time I finished it the pool didn't need heating. I've been waiting for the drop in temperature to switch it on, and today was the day! The pool was down to 73 degrees this morning (September) and the pool pump kicked on at 0830 on a bright sunny day. We have a pretty large pool, 15k or so gallon, and in THREE hours the pool was up to 80 degrees! More to come this afternoon! I am beyond satisfied, I'm blown away. The DIY took some time to do right, but I'm glad I did it and it wasn't too difficult. No leaks! Really just so happy here.
SwimJoy · DIY Solar Pool Heating
Heat your pool with the sun. Install it yourself.
Industrial-grade solar pool heating in a complete kit — with free expert sizing and support from start to finish.
In stock · Ships free · 12-Year Ltd. Warranty
SwimJoy · Industrial Grade
SwimJoy DIY Solar Pool Heater Kit
A complete panel system you install yourself — built for shingle and tile roofs, storm-wind coastlines, and freeze-prone climates, with every part for a single-row install in the box.
Fits shingle & tile roofs
High-wind mounting security
Freeze-drain design
SRCC Certified
Everything in one kit
Questions? Speak with a solar heating specialist.
619-312-4822
Mon–Fri 8:00am – 5:00pm PST
- Free Shipping On Orders Over $75
- In stock, ready to ship
Not sure what fits your roof? Talk to a designer → (619) 312-4822
How solar pool heating works
More swim days. No heating bill.
Most pools are only warm enough to swim a few months out of the year, and heating one with gas or an electric heat pump gets expensive fast. Solar takes a simpler route: your pool pump moves the water, the sun heats it, and all it needs is a sunny stretch of roof or yard.
01
Your pool pump sends water to the solar panels
The pool pump you already run routes water up to the panels — on your roof or a ground-mounted rack. No new equipment, no gas line, no added machinery.
02
The sun heats it as it travels through the panels
Water passes through dozens of individual black riser tubes, absorbing the sun’s heat as it flows.
03
Warm water returns to your pool
Heated water flows back through your pool’s return line, gradually raising the water temperature and extending your swimming season.
Gas heaters
Burn fuel every hour they run.
Electric heat pumps
Use electricity whenever they run.
Solar Pool Heating Panels
Use the pump you already run to circulate water through collectors heated by the sun.
Most systems pay for themselves in 2–3 years of avoided heating costs — then keep working for decades.
Fit check
Will SwimJoy fit your roof?
For most homes, the answer is yes. SwimJoy panels install in straight runs and can be configured around many common roof features.
Clear, straight run
Standard installation
Have an open roof area with room for panels side by side? You’re ready for a standard SwimJoy kit.
Find your kit size ↑Vents or obstructions
Easy to work around
A vent, skylight, or break in the roof doesn’t necessarily rule out solar. A Row Spacer Kit lets your system bridge many common obstructions.
Add Row Spacer Kit →Not a straightforward roof? No problem — we’ll design the system for you. Get My Free System Design →
Industrial grade, homeowner installed
Built for decades in the sun.
SwimJoy solar pool heating panels are engineered for long-term rooftop durability, with one-piece construction, strap-free mounting, and fewer connections that can wear, leak, or require maintenance over time.
High-wind mounting security
Mounting rails are molded directly into the manifold, while specialized pads secure the collectors to the roof without traditional tie-down straps.
One piece, no seams
Header and riser tubes are over-molded into a single piece, eliminating seams and welds that can become potential failure points.
Freeze-resistant by design
Separated riser tubes allow water to drain from the collectors, helping protect against freeze damage and pinhole leaks during cold weather.
Clamps, not hoses
Patented panel clamps replace traditional rubber hoses and metal hose clamps, creating a cleaner connection with fewer components to maintain.
$20–120 /yr
Typical cost to run
5
Panel lengths
Shingle & Tile
Roof types
12 yr Ltd.
Lifetime Ltd. coverage
Inside SwimJoy
Engineered differently. Built to last.
1
Flush mounting system
Strapless mounting to any roof type — fewer penetrations, room for expansion and contraction.
2
Single-piece construction
Square header and risers molded as one — no seams or welds to fail.
3
Individual riser tubes
Tubes expand and contract independently, let the roof breathe, and virtually eliminate wind loads — certified to withstand strong storm winds.
4
Mounting sleds
A sled every twelve inches prevents distortion and abrasion while the panel floats above the roof.
5
Patented clamping system
Panel-to-panel and panel-to-pipe connections without hoses — and closer panel spacing.
6
Open flow design
Every tube opens directly into the header — more flow, less back-pressure, easier on your pump.
Free System Design
Not sure what you need? We’ll size it for you.
Send us a few details about your pool and property, and we’ll design the system for you — including your panel layout, kit size, and plumbing plan. Free, with no obligation.
Tile roof, split levels, limited roof space, or considering a ground rack? We’ll figure out the best configuration for your property.
Get your free design
Takes a minute. We’ll reply with a layout and a kit recommendation.
Prefer to talk it through?
(619) 312-4822
Mon–Fri · 8am–5pm PT · real people who size solar systems every day
Rather not install it yourself?
We can connect you with an installer from our network. Same panels, same free design — installed for you.
DIY installation
Four steps. One weekend.
1
Set your mounting pads
Lay out and secure the flush-mount pads on your roof or rack — minimal penetrations, no straps.
2
Place and clamp the panels
Panels drop onto the pads and clamp to each other — no hoses to cut, no clamps to torque.
3
Connect your plumbing
Tie the row into your supply and return lines with the included connectors and vacuum relief set.
4
Turn on your pump
Open the valves, send water to the roof, and let the sun take it from there.
In the box
Everything for a single-row install, included.
Panel Kit
One per panel
- (2) Mounting pad, top header
- (2) Mounting pad, bottom header
- (2) Panel clamp assembly
Row Kit
One per system
- (2) Panel clamp assembly
- (2) End cap
- (2) Pipe connector, CPVC
Vacuum Relief Set
One per system
- (1) Vacuum relief valve, 3/4″ MPT
- (1) Reducer bushing, 2″ × 0.75″
- (1) PVC tee, 2″
Planning multiple rows? Each kit covers a single-row install. Splitting your system across rows or roof faces takes one extra row kit per added row — and it’s worth a quick call so we can map it with you. (619) 312-4822
Do you need the valve add-on?
The optional Manual Temperature Control Kit adds a full set of premium CPVC valves for connecting your panels to your pump and filter.
First-time install → yes, add the valves
You’ll need them to complete the plumbing connection to your pool equipment.
Replacing an old system → probably not
Your existing valves are likely already in place and can stay.
Sizes & specifications
Five lengths. One width.
| Panel size | Collector area | Kit range |
|---|---|---|
| 4′ × 6.5′ | 26 sq ft | 52–260 sq ft · 2–10 panels |
| 4′ × 7.5′ | 30 sq ft | 60–300 sq ft · 2–10 panels |
| 4′ × 9.5′ | 38 sq ft | 76–380 sq ft · 2–10 panels |
| 4′ × 10.5′ | 42 sq ft | 84–420 sq ft · 2–10 panels |
| 4′ × 12.5′ | 50 sq ft | 100–500 sq ft · 2–10 panels |
| Specification | |
|---|---|
| Recommended flow rate | 3–7 GPM |
| Operating pressure | 90 PSI |
| Ideal roof type | Shingle or tile |
| Ideal climate | Any |
| Warranty | 12-Year Limited / Lifetime Limited |
Not sure SwimJoy is the right panel? Compare all four SPS solar heating panels side by side →
Before you buy
You’ve got questions. We’ve got answers.
What is the cheapest way to heat a swimming pool?+
For most homes with a sunny roof or yard, solar is the lowest-cost way to heat a pool: your existing pool pump moves water through rooftop panels, the sun heats it, and there is no gas or electricity bill for the heat itself. Gas heaters and electric heat pumps warm a pool faster, but they add a monthly running cost for as long as you use them. A solar kit is a one-time purchase that pays back over a few seasons.
How much warmer will a solar pool heater make my pool?+
Solar heating typically adds several degrees to a pool during the swim season and can extend that season by weeks at each end, depending on your climate, sun exposure, and how many panels you install. The sizing tool on this page matches panel area to your pool’s surface area, which is what determines how much heat you collect. A solar cover used alongside the panels keeps that heat in overnight.
How many solar panels do I need to heat my pool?+
A common starting point is panel area equal to 50–100% of your pool’s surface area — more in cooler climates or for a longer season, less in hot, sunny ones. Enter your pool dimensions in the sizing tool above and it recommends a kit size; if your roof or yard has limited space, our free system design will work out the best configuration.
Can I install solar pool heating on a tile roof?+
Yes. SwimJoy panels mount on both shingle and tile roofs using flush-mount pads instead of tie-down straps, so there are fewer roof penetrations. Tile roofs need a little more care during install; if yours is tile, our free system design will lay out the panel placement for you.
Will my roof hold the weight of solar pool panels?+
Almost certainly. A SwimJoy panel weighs 15–22 lb dry depending on length, and about 1 lb per square foot once it’s full of water — less than a layer of roofing shingles. The load is spread across mounting pads along the full length of the panel, so no single point carries it. The dry weight also means one person can carry a panel up a ladder.
Will solar pool panels hold up in high winds or storms?+
SwimJoy panels are certified to withstand strong storm winds. Mounting rails are molded directly into the manifold and the panels are secured with pads rather than straps, which is why they are used in coastal and high-wind areas.
Does solar pool heating work in cold or freeze-prone climates?+
Yes, with the right design. SwimJoy’s separated riser tubes let water drain out of the panels when the pump is off — each panel holds only about 2–4 gallons, so it empties quickly — which helps protect against freeze damage over winter. In colder regions the system is typically drained and shut down for the off-season and restarted in spring.
What if my roof is shaded, faces the wrong way, or I’d rather not put panels on it?+
The same kit mounts on a ground rack. A sunny corner of the yard, a pergola, or a shed roof works as well as the house roof as long as it gets full sun for most of the day. Tell us about your property in the free system design form and we’ll recommend roof or ground mounting.
Will my existing pool pump run a solar heater?+
Most standard pool pumps can push water to a single-story roof without any changes. Each panel needs roughly 3–5 gallons per minute of flow, so a typical 6–8 panel system is well within what a residential pump delivers. Taller roofs, long pipe runs, or very large panel arrays sometimes need a booster pump — the installation manual covers how to check, and our team can confirm it from your pool details.
Can I really install a solar pool heater myself?+
Yes. The kit ships with every part for a single-row install: mounting pads, panel clamps, end caps, pipe connectors, and a vacuum relief set. Panels clamp together without hoses or tools, and the plumbing ties into your existing pump and filter line. Most homeowners finish over a weekend, and our team is available by phone throughout.
Do I need the valve add-on?+
If this is your first solar pool heater, yes — the optional Manual Temperature Control Kit includes the valves that connect the panels to your pump and filter. If you’re replacing an old solar system, your existing valves are usually already in place and can stay.
What if my roof has vents, skylights, or more than one face?+
Vents and skylights are usually easy to work around: a Row Spacer Kit bridges obstructions and connects panels across different roof levels. Systems split across several roof faces or multiple rows take one extra row kit per added row, and they’re worth a quick call so we can map the layout with you.
How do I know which type of solar panel is right for me?+
It comes down to your roof and how you want to install. SwimJoy suits open shingle or tile roofs and homeowners who want a complete DIY kit; tighter, broken-up, or multi-level roofs sometimes call for a different panel or an integrated system. Compare all SPS solar heating panels side by side → or schedule a call and we’ll walk your roof with you.
Resources
Manuals, specs, certifications — all in one place.
Everything you’d want to read before you buy, and everything you’ll want on hand the weekend you install.
Downloads
Spec Sheet
Panel dimensions, flow rates, pressure rating, and materials.
Installation Manual
Step-by-step roof and ground-rack instructions, plumbing diagrams, and valve setup.
Warranty
12-Year Limited panel warranty and Lifetime Limited coverage terms.
Certifications
SRCC OG-100
Independent performance rating for the solar collector itself.
SRCC OG-400
Independent rating for the complete solar pool heating system.
NSF-50
Health and safety standard for pool and spa equipment.
ISO 9001 · ISO 14001
Manufacturer certified for quality management and environmental management.
SwimJoy · DIY Solar Heating Kit
Warm water, all season long. Installed by you.
Real Voices, Real Results
Customer Reviews
Overall rating: 4.9 / 5 from 71 reviews.
I have not installed it yet, but I have opened it up and been reading up on how to install it. It will be replacing my 28 year old former system that has been working good for that long. It consisted of (2) 4 foot by 20 foot solar panels. I am replacing my old system since I need to replace the shingles and I do not think the old system will survive the removal. I will not put the new system up until May or June of 2027. I know the new system is going to generate a much greater amount of heat because it's design is superior to the old model.
System works great. Thanks again to Greg Chase for all the help during the install
Have a 15,000 gallon fiberglass in ground. had a heat pump for four years with nothing but trouble been looking at the solar for quite a while. Called Solar pool supply. Spoke with Greg. After a long conversation with Greg, I knew this was the place to buy from. He was extremely knowledgeable and had everything to do with me picking this company. He was a big help with ideas and how to incorporate into my existing Pentair easy touch. He stuck with me every step of the way. Every problem I had was handled promptly. The system is working way better than I ever thought it could. Wished I had gone solar in the beginning. Very impressed with my system. Very impressed with Greg and solar Pool Supply. Great product and employees 😎🇺🇸
DIY. Takes a little effort but works great.
These replaced the same kind/brand of panels that had been used for 19 years. I hope the quality is still the same.
I love the system
Great product. Nothing wrong with the product. Be aware that it's intended to anchor directly into the shingles. Not knowing that detail led me to some confusion.
It seemed like a daunting task, at first. But with the support of the great folks at Solar Pool Supply, all of my questions were answered, and the system went together without a hitch! It took some creative engineering to get the plumbing from the pump pad, to the roof of the shed, and then over a gap and onto the roof of the lanai, but it was actually easier than I had anticipated. If you take your time and follow their provided instructions, you will end up with an amazingly efficient and professional looking solar pool heating system.
So far have mounted the panels. It wasn’t easy to connect each panel with the gasket in place. I was 14 feet in the air and the temperature was 85°. I hope there’s no leaks.
They were very attentive to my unique install requirements and helped design a functional system. Highly recommend. Thanks again from my warm pool.
5 stars
I purchased a swim joy 8 panel system from these guys and installed it ourselves three weeks ago. It was easy to install and the few questions we had they answered swiftly. Follow the instructions which do conflict with the video in certain cases. I would recommend this company for your pool solar heating. Already had the pool up to 81. First swim two weeks ago. Nor cal.
We just installed it today with the help of our plumber and his helper. Installation took about eight hours for the seven panels. After turning on the water, we noticed a small leak at a junction. We will fix that tomorrow.
I had a good response from Tyler in designing a system to suit our needs. I subsequently ordered and received the Swim Joy panels within a few days. The product is heavy duty and fairly straight forward to install. I’m sure it will provide years of free pool heating.
This is my second purchase of this system as I am installing for a friend.
Still at the installation phase. Have yet to start circulating water through it. Materials appear, robust and well-made.
Installation was straight forward as described in the instructions with the panels easy to attach. Support was excellent easily answering my questions.
Install was smooth directions were clear be sure to use silicone when making your connections, I built my system on a rack one connection had a small leak at the panel connector to the pvc probably my fault not enough glue? overall very satisfied. support was very good as I had an initial question and actually when I called spoke to a real person
Excellent ordering and speedy delivery. Great product and love the panel connection mechanisms and Bracketing. As a DIY'er I had one issue in that I was under the impression that the Pentair Solar Controller was necessary for any automation. I came to find out that my Pentair EasyTouch System is already set up for solar and the only thig to buy was the actuator and solar temp sensor. One other thought is the spring tension on the check valves makes it so that all of the water in the solar return line does not drain which may make it a freeze hazard. Food for thought. Thank goodness I live in Florida.
I’m genuinely impressed by the efficiency of the solar heater. You can feel the warm water coming out of the jets almost immediately, even with just three panels — and this is during winter in the USVI. It does take some time to bring the entire pool up to temperature, but once it reaches the set point, the controller keeps it perfectly maintained. The service from Solar Pool Supply has been excellent: fast shipping, perfect packaging, and clear installation instructions. I definitely recommend installing this solar heating system.
Everything arrived and was in perfect condition. Followed the instructions as well as the helpful video and everything went exactly as they said! Once installed, I turned on the pump and warm/hot water was entering my pool. This was a replacement system for us as we had an old system that was bought and installed by a solar company. This product is way higher quality and I was able to do it all by myself (my wife helped roll the panels out and hoist them onto the roof). Saved a ton of money as the original system installed 12+ years ago cost a lot more! I installed this on a tile roof so was a bit more complicated but all went very smooth as the parts were very easy to install.
Ez install, replaced an exsisting system but went from 8 to 6 panels.
The panels were relatively easy to install and I am waiting on the new pump to fully evaluate the system. There are a few things to note for the Do-It-Yourselves out there. It takes many, many hours in the sun for the panels to be flattened enough to begin the installation so be patient. The connections between panels are critical and are not easy to complete. It takes a lot of force with your hands just to get the latch close enough to use the channel locks to complete the connection. I had to call Tyler on this because I was afraid I would snap the plastic half ring right off. Not to worry as he confirmed it takes a lot of force to accomplish this and the ring is strong enough to handle it. So far, so good. I can update once it all comes together.
Buying from Solar Pool Supply was one of those life changing experiences. Ordering the system from Greg and then having Tyler coach me through the install made the whole experience a breeze. Love this company and its people...enough said!!!
Solar Pool Supply is awesome. Great tech support and very helpful after purchase. I am building a solar pool heat system and they were so helpful with selecting parts and phone support. Great prices too but for a DIY project, service like that is priceless.
Very easy to install
Following the video and directions I put the 9 panels together easily. The plumbing was easy to hook up.
I first started with a cheap Amazon solar water heater a year ago. The old panels were prone to constant leaks with a very bizarre design (now in the trash). The Swim Joy panels are soooo much better. The mounting system, the durability, and design are just an overall better design. I even dropped one of the panels during the install and it didn’t even get scratched. Super happy! Only con is the price - but I have learned you get what you pay for when it comes to this kind of product. I highly recommend. I will attempt to add pics later if able. 👍👍
My previous panels had straps to hold them down, which is where they eventually developed leaks, so the SwimJoy's strapless design should ensure a much longer life. The hardware worked will and fit well - easy installation and in just a few days my pool was over 80 degrees!
Installed by me, all clamping work great no leaks. This is in northeast Indiana. Thanks Bob
i waiting for my guy to install it for me. i can tell you right now after opening up every thing looking at the quality an craftsmanship that the wife an i are going to love it. also after talking to your rep over the phone that this is a 5 star company. im damn old to get up on the roof anymore so when it gets installed ill drop you a message. thanks again for everything
Worked out great. Thanks.
Replacing a system that is in place isn't usually easy. With the SwimJoy solution, we were able to minimize every inconvenience with the complete DiY system provided. From pressure-clip sealed joints to the stress relief mounting for high-winds, the system went together without any issues at all! Thank you SwimJoy for engineering the system for US and the ease of deployment instead of just going for a buck! It truly made a difference. Alan
I was initially worried about mounting it on a terra cotta tile roof but it turned out easier than I thought. The mounting brackets are easily attached by drilling thru the cap tiles. The only hard part was moving them into place on the roof because the cross bars would snag on the tiles.
Easy to install with basic tools. O-ring joints take a little work. Suggest watch video and use proper lube. Installed eight panels and piped in 5 valves all within two days with no help. I would suggest a helper. Customer tech/support is the best.
product and team were great.
I love this system!!! So easy to install and the customer support is ALWAYS there! Seems like a smaller business that is doing EVERYTHING correctly! Customer support is phenomenal even months after the sale. They even sold me an additional panel after I purchased as 5 panel system. Can’t brag on this company enough, will differently purchase from them again if need be, highly recommended!
Everything was packaged well, came in a jiffy and the customer service was second to none. Got it installed just in time to close the pool (Michigan). I would definitely recommend you guys to everyone!
Was easy to install and I have had no issues so far