Extend Your Swimming Season with the Intex Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat
- Above Ground Pools
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
Updated: May 17
Looking for an easy, cost-effective way to extend your swimming season while shrinking your carbon footprint? The Intex® Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat could be just the answer. In this blog post, we’ll explore how it works, why it’s a greener choice, and tips for getting the most out of your solar mat investment.
How the Intex Solar Heating Mat Works
At its core, the Intex Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat is a straightforward heat-exchange system:
Solar Capture: Sunlight warms water as it passes through the mat’s dark-coloured, UV-resistant tubing.
Circulation: Your pool’s filter pump pushes water through the mat. It gains a few degrees of warmth before returning to the pool.
Modular Design: You can link multiple mats in series or parallel. This lets you scale up capacity for larger pools or achieve higher temperature gains.
Since there’s no electrical heating element, all the “fuel” is free sunshine. You only pay for the small additional runtime needed for the pump to push water through the mat panels.

Environmental Benefits
Zero Direct Emissions
The Intex solar heating mat has no gas burner or electric heater—just sunlight. This leads to significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions.
Low Energy Use
The pump operates for only a bit longer each day compared to unheated operation. This means lower energy costs for you.
Durable and Recyclable Materials
Intex designs its solar mats for multi-season use. The PVC and polypropylene components are recyclable at end-of-life, making it an eco-friendly choice.
By choosing solar thermal instead of propane or resistive-element heaters, you avoid burning fossil fuels. Consequently, you dramatically reduce your pool’s carbon footprint.
Maximizing Efficiency
To get the most out of your Intex solar heating mat, consider the following tips:
Run Pump During Peak Sun
Aim for mid-day circulation, specifically between 10 am and 4 pm. This is when sunlight irradiance is highest, and your mat can absorb maximum heat.
Cover at Night
Use a thermal blanket to trap heat and reduce overnight losses. If running the filter pump at night, adjust the bypass valve to prevent water from circulating through the mat entirely. This avoids lowering your pool water temperature.
Clean Mats Periodically
Removing debris and rinsing the surfaces of the mats helps maintain optimal solar absorption. Clean mats will work more efficiently and extend their lifespan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use the Solar Heating Mat with Any Pool?
Yes, the solar heating mat is compatible with most above-ground pools. Always check the specifications to ensure the best fit.
How Much Temperature Increase Can I Expect?
Most users report a temperature increase of around 5 to 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The exact amount will depend on factors like local weather and the size of the mats used.
Is It Easy to Install?
Yes, the installation process is relatively straightforward. Basic tools and some DIY skills are all you need for a successful setup.
Conclusion
The Intex Eco-Friendly Solar Heating Mat is a smart, sustainable upgrade for any above-ground pool. It leverages free solar energy, requires minimal maintenance, and pays for itself in no time at all. Whether you’re looking to swim earlier in spring, stay in later in fall, or simply reduce your environmental impact, this solar mat is a small investment with considerable rewards.
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