Diving In To Solar Water Systems
If you're drowning in the cost of your utility bills, then investing in a solar water heater may be the lifejacket that you're looking for. These hot water systems can save you a bundle on heating water for your home because it uses sun energy as fuel. Unlike fossil fuels, sunshine is free, clean and there is an infinite supply. In this article, we'll explain how these systems work and how it can save you money. 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. Solar water heating systems almost always require a backup system for cloudy days and times of increased demand. Conventional storage water heaters usually provide backup and may already be part of the solar heating package. A backup system may also be part of the solar collector, such as rooftop tanks with thermosyphon systems. Since an integral-collector storage system already stores hot water in addition to collecting solar heat, it may be packaged with a backup water heater. 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. While there are minor problems with current solar water systems, the technology is rapidly improving. As a consumer, these systems are a smart investment because they will pay for themselves in a short amount of time, therefore reducing your utility bills. Also, many governments offer rebates to people who invest in environmentally friendly solar power products. While saving money, you can also be environmentally friendly by reducing the need for fossil fuels.
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