Service & Maintenance
Solar Pool Heating Service & Maintenance Expectations
Leaks: They’re Inevitable, But Manageable
Here’s the truth: at some point in the 10–20 year life of your system, you will experience a leak. It could be at a connection point, a fitting, or a valve. This doesn’t mean your system is failing — it’s simply the reality of water under pressure moving through a system for years. The good news? With proper installation and timely service, leaks are quick, routine repairs.
It’s also important to understand that a leak in your solar system does not mean your roof itself is leaking. Your roof doesn’t discriminate between pool water from your system and rainwater during a storm — water will find its way downhill either way. That’s why we use industry best practices in flashing, sealing, and attachment to ensure roof integrity is never compromised. And if it ever is, we stand behind our work.
Finally, remember that solar pool heating systems live on your roof — exposed to the elements year-round. Temperature swings, sun exposure, and natural expansion and contraction of materials will, over time, cause fittings to loosen or seals to wear. This is normal and expected, and it’s why occasional service calls are simply part of long-term system ownership.
Performance Issues: Usually Not the Panels
- Is the system even on? (You’d be surprised how often automation settings get switched off!)
- Control system programming after a power outage
- Pump speed or flow rate on variable-speed pumps
- Dirty filters that restrict water flow
Winterization & System Design Matter
Warranty: What’s Covered (and What Isn’t)
- Most warranties do not cover labor for troubleshooting or repairs unrelated to the panels.
- Panel defects are rare.
- The real service items are connection points between panels, sensors, actuators, and control systems.
Roof Concerns: Penetrations & Re-Roofing
- Penetration Quantity Matters: Some products require more roof penetrations than others. More penetrations can mean more potential points of failure if not properly sealed.
- Attachment Techniques: Suntrek uses advanced installation methods that minimize penetrations and maximize durability. In fact, there are techniques that allow a system to be installed with fewer, more robust, and foolproof penetrations that are designed to stand up against leaks over the long term.
- Flat Roofs: In many cases no penetrations are required at all. Ballasted or weighted systems can be installed without compromising roof integrity.
Common System Lifespan
- Panels: 10–20+ years with proper care
- Sensors, o-rings, Hose connectors and valves: 3–7 years before replacement or repair are needed
- Automation & controllers: 5–10 years before adjustments or upgrades may be needed
Critter Damage
If you already deal with roof rats, squirrels, or birds, you’ll want to tell us before installation. Homeowners typically know if they have a critter issue, and it’s best to address it up front. Chewing, nesting, and scratching can damage panels and plumbing — and that’s not a warranty item. Together, we can discuss preventative measures (like mesh barriers or deterrents) during installation so there are no surprises later.
Weather Damage
Not all panels are built the same. Some withstand wind and freezing conditions better than others. The method of attachment to your roof and the installation techniques used also play a big role in how well your system weathers the elements. While Suntrek designs systems for durability, storms, freeze events, and high winds can still cause issues — and not all brands perform equally under these conditions. Choosing the right system and installation method is key to long-term reliability.
The Big Picture: Why It Matters
Ask yourself: is your swimming pool just a water feature, or is it the focal point for your family’s enjoyment, spontaneity, and memories?
Pool ownership is no joke — it comes with real expenses and responsibilities. You already know the routine: the cost of a weekly pool service professional, regular chemical balancing, filter cleanings, pump repairs, heater upgrades, and all the other equipment needs that come with keeping a pool in top condition.
When you put it in perspective, the service and maintenance duties that come with a solar pool heating system pale in comparison to pool ownership itself.
And what makes it all worth it? A warm, inviting pool you actually enjoy. Solar heating turns your pool from something you “have” into something you love — the centerpiece for your family’s time together, spontaneity, and memory-making.