This highly efficient electric heater can be mounted horizontally or vertically, in new or existing pools, and is delivered complete, ready to install in the filter-circulation system. Most pools are maintained at about 80 degrees F. Keeping a pool at 80 degrees F, once it has been brought up to temperature, requires surprisingly little in the way of heating equipment. Convection heat loss from a heated outdoor pool takes place primarily from the serface of the water - very little loss occurs through the sides and bottom of the pool, or from radiation or conduction. Since the pool may be shaded, and since skies may be overcaast at times when heat is most needed, the warning effect of solar radiation should be ignored. This means that the size of the heating equipment required to maintain the pool at a temperature of 80 degrees, is determined by the local weather conditions and the serface of the pool.
Wind is a primary factor in the heat loss of a pool.
The Little Giant sizing chart is based on a 10 m.p.h. wind and a 20 degree differential temperature between the water and the air. 20 degrees F difference. A wind of 20 m.p.h. may double the heat loss. Thus swimming pools should be sheltered from the wind so as to prevent excessive heat loss and the requirement of a larger number of heaters. We recommend that four or more days be allowed to initially heat the pool in order to not oversize the heating equipment.