Solar pool heating is the most cost effective use for solar energy today.  These systems are usually cheaper and less expensive to operate than conventional gas and heat pump pool heaters.  Some systems pay for themselves in less than 2 years.  The average solar pool heating system costs between $3,000 to $4,000 dollars installed. 

 
Solar pool heating works by pumping water through a filter into solar collectors usually placed on a nearby roof where it is heated before it is returned to the pool.  Because you will probably only be using your pool when the air temperature is above freezing you can use unglazed solar collectors.  Unglazed solar collectors are made of out durable rubber or special UV resistant plastic.  These materials are used to prevent corrosion caused by the pool chemicals.  Most systems will require some basic maintenance and can last for up to 20 years.  Call a local professional solar provider for more information.