TIPS ON BUYING A SOLAR WATER HEATER

Many are those who are looking for ways to cut down on the ever increasing Electrical energy costs. For this reason, many are turning to alternative means of energy especially on water heating. One of the options available is Solar Water Heating. Have you ever thought of installing a solar water heating system?

A  Solar Water Heating System

1)    A suitable site - normally solar water heaters are installed on the roof to capture all the energy of the sun. Ensure that you’re roof can get direct sunlight between 10am and 4pm all through the year, preferable at an angle of 15˚. Your roof or roofing tiles should be sturdy enough to support the system

2)Make a good study of the solar water heater system that is appropriate for you. Have a discussion with a qualified person suppliers, contractors and let them help you decide on the system that is optimum for you

3)Estimate the capacity you need: To be able to make this estimate, start at the gallon capacity of the water heater that you currently use. And make additions to it according to extra fitting that will be in the loop like additional faucets, showers, dishwasher etc 

4)Buy from a reputed manufacturer. You should fish around for a system that is manufactured by a reputable firm. You are not only assured of the system meeting it`s rated life but also guaranteed of after-sale services especially on regular maintenance and checks. In a addition, you are certain of the quality of the system and should you need a replacement for a particular component of the system, it would be easy to get.

5)Find a good contractor: No matter how good your system is, if the installations are not done properly then your system may not work properly leading to loss of money in repairs and replacements. Get yourself an experienced contractor to install the solar water heating system. Installing a solar water heater in your home has to be done with utmost care as it often involves running pipes through walls

6)For the contractor: ask for cost in writing, references, and check if the contractor follows all local building rules for installation of solar water heaters

7)After you make your purchase, regular maintenance of your system is imperative to ensure efficient working of your solar water heater.

A few pointers on Solar Water Heater maintenance are-

-Make sure the collector is clean. 

-Check if the collector sealing or glazing is cracked or yellowing 

 
-Check is the fasteners keeping the collector to the roof are proper

-Piping & wiring are insulated and without damage

-Roof penetration is well sealed

-Ensure that the solar water heaters pressure relief valve is not fully opened nor closed

-That the pumps in the system get activated when the sun is shining

-That there are no blockages or mineral build up in the pipes

-If water is hard water, then a descaling compound is to be used every few years

Before you embark on such an important decision as buying a solar water heater, follow the above tips, do your research and finally make a proper decision. READ. LEARN AND SHARE.