Solar Water Heaters

If you want a cost effective way to generate hot water for your home then consider solar water heaters. You can use them in any climate and the fuel is completely free. Solar water heaters consist of storage tanks and solar collectors. There are two types of solar water heating systems: active which feature circulating pumps and controls; and passive which don’t.

Among the active solar water heaters there are two types. The first is a direct circulation system which circulates household water through the collectors via a pump and into the house. This system works in climates that don’t experience freezing temperatures. Second, there is an indirect circulation system which pumps a non-freezing, heat-transfer liquid through the collectors and a heat exchanger. The water that flows into the home is heated. This system works no matter what temperature the climate is.

Passive solar water heaters have less expensive system than the active solar water heaters, but they aren’t as efficient. There are also two types of passive solar water heaters. The first is an integral collector-storage passive system. These are best for climates that don’t drop below freezing.

They are also ideal for homes that have more daytime and evening hot water needs. Second there is a thermo syphon system which pumps water through the system when warm water rises and cool water sinks. These systems are very reliable, but roof design is a factor due to the heavy storage tank. These are often the more expensive passive solar system as well.