Description
The Mountfield SAS8 is a solar collector for above-ground pools that have a pump with a sand filter. Its black surface absorbs the heat of the sun and passes it on to the water flowing through the panel, so heating needs no electricity or fuel.
The model at a glance
- surface 5.4 m², dimensions 4.50 × 1.20 m;
- weight 7 kg, panel thickness 4 mm;
- for pools with a volume of up to 45 m³;
- manual bypass valve to stop the flow;
- made of polypropylene.
How it heats the water
The filter pump pushes water from the pool to the panel. In the many narrow channels it is warmed by the sun and then returns to the body of water. Polypropylene is a single solid module on which limescale does not build up. When installed correctly, the water in summer becomes up to 6 °C warmer than in the same pool without heating – enough to extend the swimming season.
On cloudy and rainy days the effect is weaker, but after a day or two of sunshine the temperature recovers. The water should not exceed 30 °C: above that, algae develop and the liner and the filter pump are at risk of damage. At this value the panel is switched off.
What the valve is for
The panel heats only while the sun is shining. At night the surrounding air is colder and the water passing through the panel would cool down. The manual bypass lets you switch the panel off at such moments – for example during night-time filtration.
Choosing the right size
For a volume of 20–25 m³, a 3.6 m² panel is sufficient. For pools of 30 to 45 m³, this model with 5.4 m² is the right choice. If the panel is smaller than recommended for your volume, heating will be weak. In mountain areas with cooler and shorter summers it is wise to plan for a larger surface. Several panels are connected to each other with standard corrugated hoses. The manufacturer lists it as suitable for Azuro 403DL, 404DL and 405DL.
Where to place it
- in a spot with direct sunlight for at least 6 hours a day;
- when installed on a sloping surface – facing south or southwest;
- the best tilt for the May–September period is between 30 and 45 degrees;
- at a distance of at least 1.5 m from the pool, so that children and pets do not get easier access to the water;
- away from the path of the lawn mower and from places where pebbles fly.
The panel must be firmly secured – on a special stand when installed on the ground, or stably on a roof, so that the wind cannot move or damage it. Keep it away from PVC-U drainage pipes: near them the temperature reaches 70 °C.
Connection and additional parts
The panel is connected to the outlet connection of the filter. Between it and the return nozzle there must be no valves, filter tanks or other obstacles that raise the pressure. The connection diagram is in the manufacturer's instructions. If the sand filter pump is in working order, no special pump is needed. Consulting a specialist is recommended only when the panel is far from the pool or above the water level.
The fittings are for hoses with a diameter of 32 and 38 mm. For pipes of a different diameter, contact a qualified technician. The hose of the required length is chosen separately. For roof installation, a fixed connection with PVC pipes, glue and fittings is recommended, and on sloping surfaces a stand for the size of the panel.
Combination with a thermal cover
The cover retains at night the heat accumulated during the day, especially at the beginning and end of the season. On hot summer days take it off, because direct sun warms the water more deeply.
Technical data
| Manufacturer | Mountfield, Czech Republic |
|---|---|
| Code | SAS8 |
| Type | solar panel for pools |
| Length | 4.50 m |
| Width | 1.20 m |
| Working surface | 5.4 m² |
| Weight | 7 kg |
| Panel thickness | 4 mm |
| Material | polypropylene |
| Suitable volume | up to 45 m³ |
| Valve | yes |
| Connections | hoses 32/38 mm |
| Connecting several panels | yes |
| Compatibility | pools with sand filtration |
| Suitable models | Azuro 403DL, 404DL, 405DL |
What's included
A panel with the stated dimensions, a valve, outlets and hose connections. The hose is not included.
