There are new regulations for pool and spa heating in 2026
- Suction flow rate to be less than 6 ft./sec
- Discharge flow rate to be less than 8 ft./sec. Should be < 6ft./sec for energy efficiency.
- Cartridge filter flow to be rated at .375 gpm per sq. ft.
- Sand filter flow to be rated at 15 gpm/sq. ft.
- DE filter flow rate to be 2 gpm/sq. ft.
- Backwash valve to be 2" pipe size.
- Maximum pool turnover rate of once every 6 hours or more. 8-10 hour turnover is okay.
- Variable speed pumps are normally required
- 8 pipe diameters before the pump.
- Long sweep elbows equal to or less than 30 ft. of pipe.
- Pools or spas being heated solely by solar pool heating are exempt.
- There is NO requirement for a solar pool cover when installing solar pool heating panels.
- Requirements for pool controllers to be able to be controlled by the utility. So just install a dedicated solar controller if that bothers you. They could shut your pool off.
- Combination of heat pump and solar is a possibility.