Solar Water Heating Systems

Solar Water Heating - Cost Savings to Homeowners

Most people use hot water frequently throughout the day. Everyday activities such as laundry, bathing, washing dishes, cooking, and cleaning all use hot water and it can add up fast. When we use hot water we are using energy, usually electricity, because our hot water heater has to heat the water before we can use it. Hot water heaters use a lot of energy which means our hot water needs end up costing homeowners a lot in energy bills. Solar water heating is one way to save on your energy bill by using the power of the sun to heat all the water you need for your daily activities. Installing a system like this is one of the least expensive solar power systems to install around your home and will save you lots of money in the long run.

Solar water heating is easy to retrofit to almost any existing water heater using a heat exchanger. Solar heat exchangers attach to the hot water tank and allow the hot water heater to draw power from a solar panel instead of the household electric current. Hot water heaters that have built in solar panels are more expensive than regular hot water heaters so you will save money by retrofitting your existing one to accept solar power. You will also save because you will not have to replace your existing water heater, and because solar panels generally outlive water heaters it will be easy to switch your solar panel to a new water heater.

You can also use a solar wand heat exchanger to heat water with solar power using your existing water heater. The solar wand rests inside the water tank and water moves through the wand and is heated and heats the water before it is released. The wand is connected directly to a solar panel which heats it so it can heat the water that passes through.

A solar panel system used for solar water heating is not as expensive as a whole house system and can still save you a considerable amount on your energy bill. These systems are easy to install and most people can install, and if you have the inclination, you can even build your own solar panel. Kits are available to convert your water heater to solar power or you can have it professionally done. The advantages of using solar power outweigh the disadvantages, which is why using solar water heating is an attractive option. Solar power is cost effective over time and does not harm the environment. However, one drawback is that it takes an upfront investment which would be recouped over time.

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