Are Acrylic Windows Suitable for Heated Swimming Pools?

If you are planning on investing in a high-end swimming pool, you need to understand which features go well together. One of the many questions we get is the compatibility of window pools and a heating system. More specifically, are acrylic windows suitable for heated swimming pools?

If you are thinking about combining the two features, you need to figure out whether acrylic panels can withstand heat and still provide durability. Find out from experts and make the right decision for your business.

Are Acrylic Windows Suitable for Heated Swimming Pools?

Many of our clients opt for building acrylic window pools because they look luxurious and offer many benefits. Acrylic panel pools are resistant to several things, including impact, scratching, and UV light. But can acrylic pool windows withstand the conditions of a heated pool?

Generally, acrylic windows are suitable for heated swimming pools. Acrylic is used for pools that are heated up to the recommended temperatures. However, we don’t advise our clients to put acrylic windows on pools held at higher temperatures because of the material’s nature and heat resistance capacity.

As a reference, the acrylic swimming pool window can withstand temperatures up to 320°F. That is the temperature when it starts to melt. If there are sudden changes in the temperature of the water, the acrylic window might slightly contract and expand. Yet, that doesn’t mean it will permanently shrink or show permanent damage.

Factors to consider

When acrylic walls can be used in luxury heated pools depends on several factors. They can be the perfect solution for your business luxury pool if the right material, thickness, and design are used.

One of the most important things is having the acrylic panels properly installed and maintained. So, how well acrylic windows hold up in heated pool water largely depends on the material’s quality and the installation process performed by experts in this field.

If you choose to work with us, you can rest assured that your business investment will be in the right hands. We have more than 20 years of experience in installing acrylic panels and only use superior quality acrylic panels, like the ones from Polycast, Arkema, Reynolds Polymer, and others.

Temperature resistance

The temperature resistance of the acrylic panels sometimes depends on the manufacturer. Besides, most high-quality products are suitable for heated swimming pools. 

However, when we design your pool, you should let us know that you’re planning to heat it. This way, we will use the best acrylic panels to enhance your luxury pool’s durability.

Swimming pools are typically maintained at temperatures between 78°F and 82°F. That is within the safe heat-resistant range for acrylic windows.

It is also important to note that heat systems are typically made to reach and maintain the normal swimming pool temperature. If you plan to use a heating pump with the highest limit of 104°F, you should inform us in advance so we can find an appropriate solution for you.

Thermal Conductivity of Acrylic Windows for Pools

One of the reasons why acrylic glass is recommended for use in heated pool environments is its thermal conductivity. Compared to glass, acrylic has lower thermal conductivity, counting 0.19 W/mK. 

But why does that matter for your heated pool? In simple terms, putting an acrylic window instead of a glass one is that it will most likely keep the underwater temperature consistent for a longer period.

By using acrylic windows, you will minimize the chances of losing water temperature. In addition, you will get more light because acrylic windows transmit up to 92% of the light, making your swimming pool look fabulous.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Installing Acrylic Panels

Luxurious pools are a hefty investment, but they should be worth every penny. That’s why you need to take into consideration all the pros and cons of acrylic panels.

First and foremost, acrylic pool wall panels and windows are incredibly durable and easily repairable. If an acrylic is scratched, we can easily repolish it and refinish it without draining your pool’s water. Your business will save both time and money on repairments.

Another benefit of using acrylic panels for heated pools is that the material is clear and transparent. In contrast to glass, which can start to fade or change color, you won’t face that challenge with acrylic panels.

One of our favorite things about acrylic panels and windows is that they are flexible. We can create a lot of non-traditional shapes with acrylic panels. It will be up to your imagination and our craftsmanship.

Ultimately, the acrylic panels are impact resistant, which protects them from different kinds of impact or stress.

One of the biggest cons of acrylic pools is that they can be expensive. However, if you weigh the durability, endurance, and quality of the material and its price, you will see that it is totally worth it.

Another disadvantage is that the material can be scratched. But as we mentioned above, it can be easily repaired and won’t influence the panel’s functionality and longevity.

Handy Tips for Heating Your Pool

Your priority might be finding ways to reduce costs without sacrificing quality. For that purpose, we created a short list of the best tips for heating your pool efficiently. You should utilize these tips if you want to reduce your pool heating costs:

• Pick the right location of the pool; avoid shaded or places exposed to wind
• Pools might lose up to 5°F per hour just from evaporation; by using solar pool covers, you might increase the temperature of the pool and prevent almost 95% of evaporation
• As an alternative to solar covers, you can get solar sun rings
• Use liquid solar pool covers, which are fatty alcohol substances that prevent evaporation; they are non-toxic and affordable
• Choose the most appropriate type of pool heating; the most common and efficient ways to heat a pool are solar-powered pool heaters, gas/propane heaters, electricity, and heat pumps
• Combine different ways to heat your pool; for instance, use both solar cover and pool heat pump for best results
• Consider investing in a windproof pool enclosure

Most importantly, remember that properly maintaining your pool will make your heating efforts more efficient. For instance, the quality and maintenance of your pool pump and filtration systems are crucial for better, smarter, and faster heating.

Over time debris can be collected in the pump and filtration systems, making them less functional. That means you will increase the energy they use to work and, thus, increase your costs. While you continuously maintain the pump and filtration systems, you should also maintain the heater itself.

Acrylic Panel Alternative for Heated Pool

To make an informed decision, you need to know the other options for your pool design. For instance, if you tend to maintain the pool at higher temperatures, we recommend using a glass pool window instead of an acrylic panel.

Other reasons why our clients sometimes consider glass pools are the more affordable price tag and traditional look.

Also, the glass as a material is less prone to scratches compared to acrylic. But, at the same time, instead of showing signs of damage, the glass is more likely to break instead of giving you a hint it needs to be repaired. Also, it has low impact resistance.

Why Choose Titan Aquatic Exhibits?

We understand that it can be hard to decide which contractor to sign with when it comes to your business. Proper installation is critical to ensure the acrylic panels are securely sealed and won’t leak. That’s why you need professionals like us to do the job for you.

It is of significant importance to have a manufacturer that will understand your needs and create a design according to your liking. Also, it will come in handy when you can contact the same company for everything related to your pool.

To make things easier for you, we offer a wide range of services for our clients, and the ones that are acrylic-pool-related include:

• Thermoforming the acrylic panels into any shape
• On-site acrylic panel installation
• Re-sealing or panel removal services
• Leak detection and solving the problem
• On-site polishing and scratch removal of your acrylic panel
• Designing your pool

If you need a pool built from scratch, feel free to request a quote online.

Conclusion

Are acrylic windows suitable for heated swimming pools? Since we always explore the challenges with the design our clients want, we dedicated this article to the usage of acrylic windows for heated pools. 

Our goal is always to build long-lasting solutions for businesses like yours. One of the crucial steps in the building process is careful planning and material selection. Considering the features of acrylic panels, putting acrylic windows on a heated pool you plan to keep at a normal temperature is always a good idea.

Contact us today if you are interested in investing in a luxurious pool with a stunning acrylic window.