Solar Pool Heaters
Customer Testimonials

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Florida - May 2012

I wanted to send a quick thank you to your staff for the EXCELLENT service that I have received. From ordering my solar panels with Josie to my pick up today with Bill and everyone in between! Customer service at Solar Direct is unparalleled. I will certainly recommend this company! Again, thank you for making my purchase an absolute pleasure!

Jeffrey Mall

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Florida - April 2012

Dale... Got my panels installed last week.... I couldn't be more pleased. Went together perfectly. The old system ran a 22# head when the panels were on, the Vortex panels 18#!

Thank you in advance for your help.

Earl Vogt

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Maryland - March 2012

If you ever have prospective customers who would like to talk to someone with one of your systems in place, please feel free to have them contact us. We have nothing but praise for your product and for how your company treats its customers.

Pat Reed, President
Sullivan Heights Swim Club
Westminster Maryland

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Maryland - March 2012

Wanted to thank you for a very easy and seamless installation of this system It is up and running and I'm pleased to tell you that The temp is up to 86 already. I have had many inquires as to where we purchased the system and how nice it looks on the roof,I'm pleased to give them the info from your company.

Thank You again it was a pleasure doing business with you

David Redman

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Florida - December 2011

My husband and I purchased a home over a year ago equipped with a Solar Direct water heater and Goldline controller. We took it for granted that it was operational as it appeared to be fairly new. A client of mine, that sells commercial solar power systems, suggested that I turn the breaker off to the water heater. I did so and discovered that the system was not operating on its own. I proceeded to call your company and was put in touch with Frank in technical support. I explained that I was new to solar energy and described our situation. Frank immediately began educating me as to how a solar system works. He had a couple of ideas as to what was going on with our system and, over a two to three week period, walked me through a couple of trial and error experiments to narrow down the problem. I phoned Frank frequently during this period and each and every time my phone call was taken by him with enthusiasm. He never gave me the impression that my constant barrage of questions were bothersome to him. On the contrary, I have been left with the impression that he enjoyed helping me. This is, hands down, the best customer service that I have ever received.

Incidentally, the issue was a $26 check valve. Our solar hot water heater is now working almost completely off of solar energy! We are very excited about solar power now and have decided that all future solar power purchases will be from Solar Direct.

Thank you,

Dr. and Mrs. Sykes
Clearwater, Fl.

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Florida - September 2010

Hi Dale,

Just to let you know, Jared did a super job on our replacement pool solar system. He is also a great ambassador for your company.

Funny thing, the white PVC added some class!

Appreciate the way you put the project together.

Thanks - Cheers

Don Hawker

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Pennsylvania, July 2010

Dear Dale

This is a o ne year follow-up. We love our solar warmed pool. Pool temp about 88 degrees and haven’t touched the propane button once. We have used our pool more this year alone then the previous eight years combined.

Thanks again.

Mark Straubel

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Maryland - June 2010

Dale,

The system works absolutely great.  Pool is up to 92 degrees (37,000 gallons)!  My system pressure has dropped from 28 psi (1.5" plumbing with old Hayward chlorinator) to 20 psi (2" plumbing with Pentair chlorinator).  Flow had obviously increased as well.  No leaks and I am very, very happy with the system quality and operation. Very good call on replacing the plumbing... I am very glad I listened to you.

Thanks for the excellent communication, guidance, and technical support.

Gary Chappie

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Florida - March 2010

Hi Sheila,

Last week I contacted Solar Direct and was helped by Dan to size and select your Premium In ground Solar Heating System. Dan was extremely knowledgeable and my order was completed in just a few minutes.

I ordered (6) 12’x4’ with a combo #4 heating control.

The entire order arrived at my door on Friday (12 March). With the help of one man, the system was installed in two days (a total of 13-hours work).

I was upgrading from a previous system which time and again failed (Fafco). To install the new system I had to enlarge my current panel bracket and add only 7-foot of new piping.

The controller was a bit tricky. And I say that as a well-seasoned electrical qualified person. I install sophisticated fire alarm and HVAC systems. There needs to be a simpler description for wiring the controller. None-the-less I got it right the first time and I’m amazed at how superior the panels are over my previous. My new set-up is 50 sqft larger yet my pressure drop is less than half what it was before. What a strain off my circulating pump.

I’m really impressed with the system and my neighbor is contemplating ordering a set as well.

Have a great summer, as I will in my nice Solar Direct heated pool.

Sincerely,

Vic Jones

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Curacao N.A. - August 2009

I am happy to enjoy a Mini Pool (Jacuzzi) that was from 77 – 104 degrees, 8 hours pomp running with pool cover. It was very easy to install, it took me only 2 days. The Support by mail & phone, of Chris Biczynski was excellent. Thank you Chris I will recommend it to everyone, it’s great (see photo)

Thanks for a great system.

William Rozier

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Minnesota - August 2009

Chris,

Attached are some of the photos taken during our installation phase. I do have some more to locate that shows the final process finalized...

Also for your info, I have been receiving phone calls from 2 or 3 of our other properties that are going to be scheduling budgets for the same process. I have given them your name as a sales rep for the projects. Thanks again.

FYI for your info we never had to turn on the back up gas heater this year at all and also have rated a savings of between 400-600.00 per month this year alone - FANTASTIC - Thanks again,

Michael Miller

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St. Augustine - August 2009

I had all my concerns and questions answered this morning in detail. Thank you for your excellent technical support. I am in the computer technical support field and recognize high quality performance. At a time when customers often experience poor response it is important that businesses that do excel, like yours, are recognized.

When it is time to order replacement components for my solar pool heater or recommend your company to others I will gladly do that.

Sincerely,

Michael Velkovich

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Florida - March 2009

I bought five solar panels from you originally in 2000, and then 3 more in 2001.

I have had a few minor leaks with a couple of panels in the past and had to have warranty exchanges.

Every time I have had to deal with your company with my warranty issues it had been a pleasure, but this last time, Richard Sullivan has gone above and beyond to give great customer service and I wanted to make you aware of it.

I went through some personal problems last year and have had problems finding some of my paperwork recently for purchases from the past, and when I found that I had another leak on my roof I dreaded the idea of either looking through my paperwork to find my original invoice, or contacting my ex-wife to see if she had it.

And that is where Richard exceeded my expectations, he immediately contacted me back after I made him aware of my leak on his voicemail and when I E-mailed him that I will have problems finding my invoice, he took it upon himself to research your "old" files and found my purchase information.

You should know that Richard told me he was doing his job when he researched my information, but in my eyes, your employees like Richard are the reason that I bought from your company originally, then a second time and why I have continued to recommend your company numerous times to all of my friends with swimming pools.

In these days of cutbacks, layoff's and uncertainty it is assuring to know that your company still retains a professional staff that "cares" about the customer and does whatever is necessary to help out.

Thank you Richard!!!

Bill Van Horn 

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Massachusetts - April 2008

I installed 2 of your Vortex 4' x 12' panels in the spring of 2008 and they work good. Sun in New England can be a rare commodity at times, but when we get it, the 2 panels plus a solar cover really make a difference. (see photo)

Stephen DeRoy

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Pennsylvania - August 2007

Enclosed are the cut off corners from solar panel returned as per terms of the warranty agreement. Please process as necessary and contact me if there are any issues.

I would also like to take the time to thank you for your quick response in replacing this defective panel. The system has been running flawlessly for about five years now. This leaking panel has been the first and only problem we have experienced. Your warranty procedures made this replacement an easy and painless process.

It is good to see companies stand behind their products as advertised and a pleasure to do business with them. If you need a recommendation or reference in Northeastern Pennsylvania, you can always get a positive one from me.

Thank You,

David Young

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Nevada - April 2007

As you may have seen, I placed the order. Thanks for the online help. Your quick response to question and you adding links in your email helped me very much. (You have a big web site). That and the full explanations and extensive descriptions of your equipment on your web site placed your company far and above the others I was looking at. You can be sure than when my son is ready for his panels it’ll be from you guys.

Thank you,

Jerry Sturdivant

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Florida - February 2007

Dale,

Thanks for your support during our extremely stressful transition. We know we will love being here once all gets settled but, so far, there's a ways to go with getting to that point. Your staff is wonderful and I thank you for understanding our STRESS during this time. I hope we will be resting in our wonderful SOLAR HEATED POOL soon! Have a great week and, again, thanks to you and your staff.

Cheryl and Ted

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Florida - September 2006

Dale, I rather think I forgot to make the main point - my clients relatives/friends who are at the site (he will come over in 3 weeks) are very happy with the pool heating system post startup - a week ago it was chilly - now it is "wonderful" !!!!!!!!

If only I could get them to roll out the cover each night I would be a happy man! But they are so dreamy in the warm water that they forget to do it!!!

- an interesting discovery by one of them is that there seem to be warm zones and cooler zones when she goes for a night-time swim? I told her to swim close to the lights ? is there enough energy to make a difference close to the said lights?

My own common sense tells me that we should try and heat the pool to the max now we are entering October as we will store a bit of heat and keep the water at max so that the main man (i.e. - he who paid me (and thus you!)) is pleased when he comes in 3 weeks time?

Anyway it is nice to have contented customers - thanks!

Aled Davis

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Kentucky - April 2006

I purchased the Vortex solar panels from you 2 years ago, mounted them on the roof of my indoor pool, and absolutely love them. They work great!

Here is the photo of the solar panels installed on my pool house. This system has kept my 18 x36 pool within 4 to 5 degrees of the outside air temperature just like you promised. I haven't spent a dime on fuel to heat the water in my pool in 2 years. The only maintenance has been an occasional re-tightening of the hose clamps between panels. Thanks for helping me get up and running.

John Brinkerhoff

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Florida - April 2006

As an aside, I would just like to note that dealing with your company has been a very pleasant experience. The professionalism that has been displayed by your sales and customer service staff has been quite extraordinary. Rest assured that I will highly recommend your services to any of my friends and neighbors without hesitation.

Jason Saul
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Florida - January 2006

Wishing you and yours the best in this new year. As for last year, I personally did not fare well from hurricane Wilma. In particular, most of my roof shingles were lost and I shall require a new roof. However, it may be pleasing for you to note that the one part of my roof that remain protected was that portion covered by your solar panels. They remained fastened and unflinching throughout the storm, and apparently saved the roof shingles below. Indeed, unlike every other area of my roof that sustained damage and which consequently allowed the leaking of rain water leading to internal damage, the solar panel section remained water tight.

Mark Shore

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Florida - December 2005

People ask us about our solar heating and we tell them......go to Solar Direct... because of the service and product.

Thanks so much,

Linda Parker

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Nevada - November 2005

Thank you for your help! I will recommend your company to anyone who asks about my panels.

Bill Atteberry

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Massachusetts - August 2005

My house is in the background. It works great. Pool hit 92 degrees last week! I do need a solar blanket... as it cools off at night. Maybe I will use the new liquid blanket.

Paul Adler

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Florida - August 2005

Just a quick note to say how easy it was to install my new
solar system that I purchased from you. I ended up installing the entire system by myself, it probably took me a total of only about 18 hours.

The system was quite large (i.e. 10 - 4x12 panels) but it definitely works. The first day it was on it raised the pool temperature from 73 F to 84 F, a couple of days later it was at least 90F.

In the past I have not been able to use my pool from October to March, but now it appears that I can use this pool year round. Thanks for a great system.

Rich Voorberg

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California - August 2005

I used the pump for the water fall and it works great. Temperature rose nicely from morning to late afternoon! We are very happy with the system.

Clay Alexander

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Minnesota - June 2005

I wanted to give the system a few weeks of running before I sent this to you.

I could not be any happier than I am with the solar kit. Once we finally started getting some sun, the pool got up to temperature fairly quickly. I have even determined that above 86° is too warm for us, even up here in Minnesota. I really was leery about doing this myself, but thanks to you and your team, and the great support, it is functioning just like you said it would. Because we tend to want to start up the pool and get it to swimming temperature immediately, I believe my solar system will pay for itself completely in two seasons. Too bad there isn't solar electric to power my pumps!

If you ever have anyone close to me who's thinking of installing one of your kits, I would love to show off the system!

Thanks again for all your help, Jim Powell


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Florida - June 2005

You folks are first class on customer service. The strap arrived yesterday. This is less than 24 hours after my e-mail to you folks, WOW! I wish all companies responded as good as you guys. It has been a pleasure doing business with your company. I am trying to convince my cousin to buy a system from Solar Direct.

Thanks again, John Baust

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Florida - April 2005

Thank you for sending your employee Frank to install the solar panels for us. He did a great job. We only wish that the rest of our hurricane damage repairs were done in such a professional manor. Also, thank you for not ripping us off.

Sincerely, Bill and Barbara Zalenski

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California - April 2005

The missing parts have arrived in fact they would have been here on the 5th but fedex shrewd up. I picked it up at there local office today 4/11/05 thanks for the great service. Just a foot note I got the panel up this weekend and did a test to see well they work the weather was partly cloudy and the outside temp was 71 the incoming water from the panels was 96. You guys are top-shelf I'm very impressed with the service and your product.

David Wrenne

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Florida - February 2005

You supplied and fitted a pool heat pump for us in March and you may remember us questioning you prior to purchasing as to how efficient it would be at heating the water. Well we have just returned to the UK following a three-week stay at our Florida home and even though the weather got quite cold at times, the heater did a great job and for the first time in January (we have been coming for 15 years) we could enjoy the pool!!! Mind you we have not seen the electric bills yet… 

Many Thanks! Chris & Elaine Brooke

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Florida - February 2005

Just wanted to let you and your company know that my spa cover arrived yesterday and it is beautiful--better than I imagined. Thanks for the lovely workmanship and fine attention to detail. I know I won't need another for quite some time, but I will be passing along your company's name to my friends.

Thank you. Joan Van Glabek

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Kentucky - January 2005

Thank you very much for your reply to my pump problem. I might well have a suction leak and will investigate it. I also want to tell you that we love our Vortex panels. I didn't spend a dime on energy to heat my indoor pool this past season. Thanks again for your help.

John Brinkerhoff

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Florida - January 2005

I spoke with you several times over the phone re: a solar panel leak. You sent out a repair/service person by the name of Frank Heddings. I have had 2 visits from him now. I just want you to know that you are very, very fortunate to have such a fine, polite employee working for you. I hope you appreciate his hard work, long hours and certainly add hours on weekends. It was a pleasure to have him complete the repair and service. I hope he is well compensated for his employment with your company.

Thank you, Mary Ann Blaubach
P.S. Frank did not solicit this note or comments.

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Florida - November 2004

Recently I purchased a solar pool heat system, a pool cover and a roller through your internet sales. I installed the system (8 panels on two different roof surfaces) with the help of 3 friends. It took us about 6 hours to complete the installation, assemble the roller, and trim the cover. I had previously downloaded the installation instructions and had studied them thoroughly. The installation was very simple do to the quality of the system, the accuracy of the instructions, and the completeness of the deluxe kit and the split kit.

I checked the water temperature before opening the valve to "turn on" the solar heat system. It was 73 degrees. Exactly one week later, the temperature is now 90 degrees. I thoroughly researched solar pool heat before deciding on your system, and I am very pleased with the results. You can count me as a completely satisfied customer. I have "showed off" my system to all my neighbors with pools, and anticipate helping some of them install your products in the near future.

Mike Lamb

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Louisiana

Just wanted to drop you a note to tell you I finished installing my
kit. It took me 6 hours to install all 9 panels and the rooftop plumbing. It took another 4 hours to dig and install the plumbing to the pump. The kit was very easy to install and very straight forward.

Mike Rawson

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Arkansas

Thank you for the professional manner which your company has displayed in promptly delivering us a solar pool heater. It works GREAT!

Bill Fritz

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Florida

Installation was completed in short order and we are happily enjoying a very warm pool. It took 2 old men 2 days to complete the roof installation and another day to complete the plumbing. The pool stays at almost a constant temp. I am very pleased with the product and it is the envy of the neighborhood.

Richard Valentine

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Florida

My husband installed the system over Memorial Day week-end. We had a couple of questions while we were putting the system but you made yourself available for the technical support we needed to complete the job and it was very much appreciated.

It was a definite pleasant experience to deal with Solar Direct. Your follow-up with us was excellent, all questions answered knowledgeably and professionally, all phone calls promptly returned. I would highly recommend your company. We are enjoying the pool with average temp. of 90-93 degrees.

Nadine Babski
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Maryland - September 2001

Dear Dale,

Sorry it has taken me so long to write to you to express our satisfaction with the solar heating unit we purchased from you. It certainly underscores how well it has worded - we have been operating the system for four years now and we have never had a problem.

I know you will remember us - I doubt that many of your customers pestered you with as many telephone calls as we did. Our pool is a relatively small community operated pool. It is spring fed and the water temperature when we fill the pool in the spring is 55 degrees, the water temperature seldom reached 80 degrees before early August. That fact limited pool use and the effective length of our season. It was also a problem with our swimming lesson program for young children that begins early June every year. We needed use of the pool from June 1st until September 1st.

We began the search for a solar heating system in the fall of 1997, despite the skepticism of some members of our board of directors, and came across your web page. You were one of the few companies that offered solar heating systems in kit form and the only one that was willing to take the time to help design a system that would meet our needs. I was especially impressed when I dropped in at your offices unannounced and found that everyone was willing to stop what they were doing to answer all my questions.

Every representation you made to us about your system has been borne out by our experience. A group of 4 of us installed the entire system in three days - on the fourth day it was up and running. The difference it has made is nothing short of remarkable. I cannot tell you how many people comment on the difference it has made. It is impossible to imagine how we operated without the solar heating panels. We can actually use the pool until October and could begin in early May which is much more than we actually expected.

If you ever have prospective customers who would like to talk to someone with one of your systems in place, please feel free to have them contact us. We have nothing but praise for your product and for how your company treats its customers.

Pat Reed, President
Sullivan Heights Swim Club
Westminster Maryland

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New York - June 2001

I never write letters like this but wanted to tell you how great your product is. I live in the Northeast and had reservations on how well a solar pool heating system would work. I am more then satisfied with the kit I bought from your company. My 20 x 40 pool was opened at 66 degrees and in about a week I had it up to 78 degrees. In less than two weeks I had the pool in the 80's. This was in the beginning of the season when the sun and air temperatures were still mild.

The greatest thing about the solar panels is that they have extended our season by two extra months. The pool is no longer cold and we are even swimming at night because of the warmer temperatures. Our friends are envious because they bought propane and electrical heaters and can't afford to run them with the sky rocketing prices for fuel and electricity.

The installation was a snap and only took me a weekend to complete. My pump handled the run without any problems and with very little loss of water flow from the returns. I appreciate only the help your technicians provided me during the installation phase. I never waited more then 20 seconds for a tech person and he answered all my questions in a friendly professional manner. KUDOS!!

Frank Parisi

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Arizona - March 2001

Just wanted to drop you a note regarding my recently filled order for a pool heating system. I finished installing the system yesterday and am quite pleased. I order a lot of products from catalogs and via the internet and, although the items typically end up OK, I rarely get everything I asked for, especially when the item is some form of kit. I do a lot of woodworking, and many of the "put-it-together-yourself" kits lack sufficient fasteners or worse.

I am quite impressed with both the ease of installation of your product and the fact that the kit was so complete. Before opening all the boxes, I made a list of all the pieces and parts (PVC fittings) I thought I would need to buy before starting the install. I was pleasantly surprised that all of them were in the boxes you shipped.

Your instructions for installation are well written and easy to follow. I had no trouble getting everything up and running and after reading them. Overall, your product gets high marks from me.

Mike Jackson