Heating the water in your home is responsible for nearly a fifth of your energy usage per year. That’s a significant expenditure. It’s a good idea to look at ways to reduce your expenditure on hot water. One step many people take is to change from a tank heating system to a tankless, or instant, water heater.
This has significant benefits but you may want to consider investing in solar water heating. You don’t need to wait for your current system to break down, resulting in you calling a reputable emergency plumber Sydney. You can upgrade your system today, with their help.
The Types Of Solar Water Heater
There are two types of solar water heaters you need to be aware of.
1. Active Water Heaters
Active solar water heaters use the power of the sun to heat the water and incorporate a pump and various controls to ensure the best possible results. This system is the most efficient but it does require an electrical connection to power the pump.
A direct active heating system will pump the water through the solar panels allowing it to be heated ready for use. In contrast, indirect systems use a special fluid that is heated by the solar panels then goes inside a tank, heating the water surrounding it. An indirect system can be used in all climates, direct systems are not recommended for areas that have freezing periods.
2. Passive Solar Heaters
Passive solar heaters work on a similar principle, giving you the same direct and indirect options as active systems. The primary difference is no pumps are used. The water is moved by gravity and water pressure. These types of water heaters are less efficient but they are a good choice if you want to get off the grid.
Cost-Savings
One of the biggest benefits of using solar water heating systems is the cost-savings. We’ve already mentioned that heating water accounts for nearly a fifth of your energy bill. Using an active solar heater means you’ll simply be covering the cost of running a pump. That’s a significant saving.
You may also be entitled to a grant to reduce the cost of installing this type of system.
Environmental Concerns
If you’re concerned about the environment you’ll be pleased to note that the solar water heater has very little impact. The only pollutant created by this system will be that created when the electricity is produced to run the pump. Of course, you can fit a solar panel to do this and ensure that your environmental impact is zero.
This is better than an electric water heater and a significant improvement on gas or oil-powered boilers to heat water.
Things To Be Aware Of
Of course, you do need to get plenty of sun throughout the year to make this system effective. It’s also important to note that although this type of water heater is low maintenance, it is costly to install. But, you’ll lower your energy bills and find it easier to predict what they will be.