Solar Water Heater

An active solar water heater system can either be direct or indirect, with the greatest difference being the climates they can be used in. A direct system uses pumps, which circulate water through the solar collectors and into the home. They work best in climates without freezing temperatures, since the equipment used can easily freeze. An indirect system pumps a non-freezing fluid through the collectors and a heat exchanger, which heats up the water and circulates it into the home. Because a non-freezing agent is used, this type of solar water heater system is more popular in climates that experience freezing temperatures.

 

A solar water heater system can also differ in the type of solar collector used, which usually differ based on climate conditions and the type of water than is going to be heated. A flat-plate collector is an insulated, weatherproof box, which contains a dark colored absorber plate which is covered by one or several glass plates for protection. This type of collector is ideal for locations with harsh weather, such as rain, snow, or high winds. An integral collector uses black tanks or tubes, where cold water passes through and is preheated by the sun. It then is moved to the conventional backup heater, where the water finishes the heating process. This type of system cannot be used in freezing climates, since the tanks and tubes can become easily frozen. The final type, the evacuated tube collector, is more commonly used in commercial settings. It contains several glass tubes that contain metal absorbers, and a glass outer tube to keep the solar energy in.

 

Having a solar water heater system in a residential location can cut down on energy costs, since a solar water heater can heat up enough water for an entire home. Instead of having to use gas or electricity to heat up a bath, sink water, or even water for the dishwasher, the solar water heater uses the energy from the sun to heat water for all household uses.