Replacing a roof is a big project. Add a solar pool heating system to the roof, and one more question quickly rises to the top: what happens to the solar panels?
Obviously, the panels need to be removed before the roof removal and reinstallation begins. That sounds simple enough, but this actually should involve careful handling and safe storage of the existing panels, attention to the original roof penetrations, and a close look at the condition and layout of the existing system.
A benefit to reroofing is the rare opportunity to improve an older solar pool heating setup instead of simply putting everything back exactly where it sat before.
Removing and Storing the Solar Pool Heating System
Roofing crews need clear access to the roof, so all solar pool heating collectors and related rooftop components must come down before they begin removing the old roofing materials. Have an experienced solar pool heating contractor drain the system, disconnect the collectors, remove the necessary plumbing and mounting hardware, and carefully lower everything from the roof.
Once removed, the panels need a protected place to be stored during the roofing project. A garage, covered side yard, or clean section of the property often works well. Proper removal and storage decreases the risk of damage to the system.
Removing all system components also gives the contractor a unique opportunity to inspect individual parts more closely. Worn fittings, aging plumbing, damaged components, or tired mounting hardware are easier to spot and repair once everything comes off the roof. That inspection often saves the homeowner another service visit later.
Should You Redesign Your Solar Layout?
Many homeowners assume it’s best to just return the solar pool heating system to its original location. Sometimes that approach works perfectly. Other times, the reroof presents a better option.
A lot changes over a roof’s lifetime. Trees grow taller. Shade patterns shift. Skylights, vents, photovoltaic solar panels, or other equipment may now occupy parts of the roof. Pool usage changes too. Instead of just recreating the old solar system layout, an experienced solar contractor will inspect the new roof and ask these few practical questions:
- Does another roof section receive better sunlight?
- Could the plumbing route become shorter or cleaner?
- Does the existing system still provide enough collector area?
- Would a different layout work better around new vents or rooftop equipment?
- Does older mounting hardware deserve replacement before everything goes back up?
Older systems often benefit the most from this quick review.
Panels and tubes installed many years ago may still be in excellent working condition; however, the plumbing, mounting hardware, controls, or layout may no longer be the most efficient option. Updating those parts of the solar system during a re-roof avoids the time and expense of removing and relocating the system later.
Plan Before Re-Roofing Starts
Good planning and coordination with the homeowner and contractors involved makes the re-roofing and solar panel re-install process much easier.
Contact the solar pool heating contractor before the roofing crew arrives. Share the roofing schedule and materials they plan to use, and any planned changes to vents, skylights, solar electric panels, or other rooftop equipment. With this important information, the solar contractor then schedules the solar system removal before roofing begins and plans reinstallation once the new roof reaches the right stage.
After reinstallation, the solar system needs a thorough check. The solar pool heating contractor inspects all connections, verifies proper water flow, checks the controls, and confirms that the collectors sit securely on the new roof.
Give the Roof and Solar System a Fresh Start
A roof replacement does not necessarily mean starting over with a whole new solar pool heating system. In many cases, most of the existing system can keep serving the pool for years. The key to a less stressful and more efficient project is:
- Proper planning.
- Careful solar system removal
- Proper storage of the panels
- Updated mounting locations protect the new roof
- Inspection of the system for worn components.
- Reconsideration of the system layout for better performance, cleaner plumbing, or more efficient use of roof space.
If you’re a homeowner considering a new roof and already have solar pool heating, involve Solaron before the first shingle is removed. Early coordination with us makes the reroof project smoother and gives your solar system a strong start on the new roof.