For those who live in hotter climates, staying cool and dry is vital for maintaining healthy living conditions. One way of achieving this is through solar-powered water heaters which provide the ability to heat water at home, on-demand. These systems offer a host of benefits and let you save money on your energy bills which would otherwise be spent on pricey electricity bills. If you’re thinking about investing in a solar powered water heater, then keep reading. Here we answer some common questions about how to buy one and how much they cost in general so you can make the right decision for your needs.
How Solar-Powered Water Heaters Work
The basis of a solar powered water heater is fairly simple. Sunlight provides the electricity needed to power a tank containing water which is then heated by heat transfer through solar heat collectors which sit outside the home. When hot water is needed, a storage tank is topped up and heating takes place again. This process continues until the water is cool enough to be used for whatever purposes the house may have.
The beauty of this system is in its ability to collect and store solar heat for later use. This means when the sun is shining, you can rest assured your water will be at the right temperature for use even when the sun is not directly above the house. You won’t have to worry about running out of hot water because the sun will heat it up as you use it. There’s also no need to run continuous plumbing to accommodate your water heater because it will be able to maintain a steady supply of hot water as needed without any restrictions.
Where to Buy
The best place to buy a solar-powered water heater is at an authorized dealer who stocks and ships worldwide. You shouldn’t have any trouble finding an installer who can set up the system in your area if you live in the UK for example. Online stores which sell these systems are also available but make sure you purchase from a reputable source who can provide warranty and customer support if needed.
The Cost of Solar-Powered Water Heaters
The cost of a solar-powered water heater will vary depending on a number of factors:
- The size of the system
- The quantity of electricity you need
- The material used to craft the system
- The warranty coverage
- The level of support you need
The price of the system will range from £500 to £1500 as the size increases. The tank is the most vital component, so ensure you purchase one which is large enough to provide the volume of hot water you need after considering the size of your family and how often you use hot water.
What’s The Difference Between Tankless And Tank-Type Water Heaters?
If you’re looking for a solution which is relatively inexpensive and yet offers a reliable service, then consider a tankless water heater. These systems don’t require a large storage tank, which cuts down on the overall size of the system and lets you install it more easily in your home. Furthermore, the tankless water heater is also less expensive to run because it doesn’t have a storage tank.
If you do have a tank however, then make sure you purchase a new one which is energy efficient. Older tanks lose a significant amount of their heat through conduction, which means they lose a large amount of heat even when the system isn’t being used. Conduction also causes wear and tear on the tank, which could lead to leaks or damage. If you’re looking for a long-term solution, then go for the tankless water heater. Otherwise, a tank-type water heater will be best because it will save you money in the long run.
Is It Worth It?
Once you’ve decided on the type of water heater you need, it’s time to decide whether investing in one is worth it. Consider the amount of electricity you’ll need to pay for, the ease with which you can install the system, and how much you’ll save on your energy bills each month.
Most people wouldn’t think twice about paying for a reliable hot water supply which allows them to save enough money to make the investment worthwhile. If you use hot water regularly, then it’s undoubtedly worth it. Some homeowners have even gone as far as saying they would’ve never turned on their hot water system had they not been able to purchase a solar-powered water heater because it provides so many benefits for the home.
These systems are not only environmentally friendly but will also significantly reduce your electricity bills for home use. In the summer, your daily shower could be the cause of an energy bill which is why it’s important to purchase a unit which prevents overheating. If you live in a country where electricity is not readily available, then it’s also important to consider whether or not the cost of the system is worth it.
In general, solar-powered water heaters provide an efficient and cost-effective way of heating water and provide homeowners with the freedom to use hot water whenever they need it, without worrying about running out of hot water because the sun isn’t shining. What’s not to love?