Solar Hot Water Power Energy Generation
Guide
Solar Hot Water Heating Systems
By Gerard J Howson
If you’re steaming over your rising utility bills,
then a solar water heater way be the solution to your
problems. These solar heating systems are a cost–effective
way to generate hot water for your home because the
system is fueled by sunshine.
Unlike fossil fuels, sun energy is free, clean and
there is an infinite supply. In this article, we’ll
show you why installing a solar hot water heater into
your home can save you money and help the environment.
Two Types Of Solar Heating Systems
Sun powered water heating systems include storage tanks
and solar collectors. There are two types of these heating
systems: active, which have circulating pumps and controls,
and passive heating systems, which don’t.
Passive heating systems are typically less expensive
than active systems, but they’re usually not as efficient.
However, passive systems can be more reliable and may
last longer. For active systems, discuss the maintenance
requirements with your system provider and consult the
system’s owner’s manual.
Most water heaters that run on sun power, require a
well–insulated storage tank. Solar storage tanks have
an additional outlet and inlet connected to and from
the collector. In two–tank systems, the solar heater
preheats water before it enters the conventional water
heater. In one–tank systems, the back–up heater is combined
with the solar storage in one tank.
One of the drawbacks of solar water heating systems
is that they need a backup system for times of increased
demand, when it is overcast or in extreme northern or
southern areas when there is no sunlight for an extended
periods of time. Most storage water heaters provide
backup and may already be part of the solar system package.
A backup system may also be part of the solar collector,
such as rooftop tanks with thermosyphon systems. An
integral–collector storage system already stores hot
water in addition to collecting solar heat. An online
search can provide more detailed information.
Before you purchase and install a solar powered water
heating system, you should consider the economics of
solar energy systems, evaluate your site’s solar resource,
determine the correct system size and energy efficiency
and check into your local codes and regulations.
The proper installation depends on your solar resources,
climate, local building code requirements and safety
issues. It’s best to have a qualified, solar thermal
systems contractor install your system.
Regular maintenance on simple systems can be as infrequent
as every 3–5 years, preferably by a solar contractor.
Systems with electrical components usually require a
replacement part after 10 years.
Current solar water systems do have minor flaws, but
we can expect those to be remedied as the technology
improves. Even with these flaws, the systems are still
a smart investment for consumers because they will pay
for themselves in by reducing your utility bills.
Also, many governments and manufacturers offer rebates
to people investing in environmentally friendly solar
power products. Besides saving money, you can take pride
in knowing that you’re doing your part for the environment.
About the Author:
Gerard J Howson has written a number of articles on
solar power and renewable energy including
Portable Solar Power, Solar
Outdoor Lights,
Solar Technology,
Solar Electric.
Look out for new articles as they become available on
this site.
Little Known Solar Facts.....
Unless you have a severe sun allergy that prohibits
you from walking outside or being near a window during
the day, you have felt the power of the sun. The warming
rays ensure humanity's very existence. Since the beginning
humans have needed the sun to grow food, provide warmth
and light the way.
It may just be another star in the sky but for Earth
it is what gives us life. There is more to the sun than
just allowing us to spend a day outside. It can be the
solution to our energy problems.
Solar power may be the future of the Earth.
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