If you are considering installing a solar water heater in your home, you are contributing to a greener planet while saving hefty electricity bills.
A solar water heating system utilises the sunlight to heat water for everyday use. It is an efficient way to save electricity and lower the carbon footprint.
Whether you live in a cold climate or want to install a water heating system to save energy during winter, a solar water heater is a smart decision for a greener planet. However, before you decide to invest in a solar water heater, there are certain things you need to consider.
In this guide, we will help you choose the right solar water heating system for your home. Let’s get started!
Major Types of Solar Water Heating Systems
Before investing in a solar powered water heating system, you need to be aware of the major types of systems available in the market. The evacuated tube collector solar heater and flat plate solar water heaters are two major types to consider. Here’s a brief breakdown:
1. Evacuated Tube Collector Systems
The Evacuated Tube Collector or ETC solar water heater uses glass tubes to absorb solar power. The tubes are made of vacuum packed glass from inside and out to prevent them from losing heat. These types of solar water heaters are considered suitable for highly cold climatic regions where sunlight is scarce during the winter seasons.
2. Flat Plate Solar Water Heater
The flat plate heater systems use dark colour plates to absorb sunlight. In these flat plates, copper tubes are used to capture and retain heat from the sun. These types of solar heating systems are most suitable in regions with abundant sunlight throughout the year.
Things to Consider When Buying a Solar Water Heater for Home
If you have decided to buy a solar water heater for your home, here are the things you should consider:
1. Identify the Needs
Every household has different requirements for hot water for everyday use. The requirements depend on various factors such as:
Size of family: If you have a small family, the 100 litre water heating system would be sufficient. Whereas, for a large family, a 150-200 litres or even larger system needs to be installed to meet the everyday hot water requirements.
Usage habits: Consider the daily amount of hot water you generally use on a daily basis or during peak winter seasons.
2. Consider your Climate
Hot water needs highly depend on the climatic conditions of a location. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Cold climate regions: If you live in a cold environment, the evacuated tube solar water heaters are suitable for your home. They can efficiently retain heat in low sunlight, making them suitable in extreme cold climates.
Warm regions: The flat plate solar heaters are suitable in warm and sunny regions.
3. Examine the Roof Space
The roof space of your home is a significant factor when deciding on a solar heater system. Here’s what you need to consider:
Dimensions and angle: Consider the dimensions and rooftop angle of your home to ensure the water heating system fits well in the space.
Sunlight exposure: Make sure your home rooftop gets adequate sunlight throughout the year for better performance. Ideally, the south facing rooftop is considered the best for solar heater system installation.
4. Budget and Maintenance Cost
Another considerable aspect of installing a solar heating system is the associated budget and cost. Here’s what to consider:
Primary cost: The upfront cost of flat plate heating systems is generally lower than that of evacuated tube systems. However, the evacuated tube systems involve a higher upfront cost but provide long term efficiency.
Maintenance cost: The evacuated tube systems generally involve higher maintenance costs than the flat tube systems.
5. Consider Local Regulations and Incentives
Before you install a solar heating system, research the local regulations and government incentives. Make sure your systems meet all the local building rules and regulations. And inquire about the available government rebates on solar water heating systems available in your region.
Where to Buy the Best Solar Water Heater System
While buying the best solar water heater system, selecting a reliable and skilled company is vital for quality, efficiency, and customer support. In India, Inter Solar Systems is a pioneer in solar energy for more than two decades. They are known for their innovative technology and top-notch maintenance services. You can count on Inter Solar Systems for a reliable and trustworthy solar heater system installation.
Final Thoughts
Investing in solar water heating systems is an economical and environmental friendly option. By choosing the proper solar water heating system according to your family size, climate, rooftop area, and affordability, you are able to get good savings on electricity bills while keeping your carbon footprint low. Partnering with a reliable provider like Inter Solar Systems guarantees access to cutting-edge technology and expert support. .
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does a solar water heater usually last?
A properly maintained solar water heater can last 15 to 20 years, depending on its type and usage. Proper maintenance can ensure maximum efficiency and lifespan of the system.
2. How much does a solar water heater save me on electricity bills?
Savings depend on your water consumption and area electricity price, but generally, solar water heaters can lower the bills by as much as 70%, making them extremely affordable.
3. Will a solar water heater work in areas that get less sunlight?
Yes. Evacuated tube solar water heaters are made to work well even in low sunlight or cold weather, so they are well-suited for areas where the weather varies.
4. Do solar water heaters need to be serviced frequently?
Maintenance requirements depend on system type. Flat plate systems need less maintenance, whereas evacuated tube systems will need cleaning and inspection from time to time.
5. Can I put a solar water heater on any roof?
Any roof can accommodate solar water heaters, but it is necessary to determine roof size, slope, and sunlight. South-facing roofs with plenty of sunlight offer the best performance for solar heating systems.