Solar Water Heaters

Learn how to build your own SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEM now!


Solar water heaters, also called solar hot water systems, can be a cost-effective way to generate hot water for your home. They can be used in any climate, and the fuel they use, sunshine, is free.

Solar water heating systems include storage tanks and solar collectors. There are two types of solar water heating systems: active, which have circulating pumps and controls, and passive, which don't.

Most solar water heaters require a well-insulated storage tank. Solar storage tanks have an additional outlet and inlet connected to and from the collector. In two-tank systems, the solar water heater preheats water before it enters the conventional water heater. In one-tank systems, the back-up heater is combined with the solar storage in one tank.

A wise investment for the average American is to purchase a solar water heater. Few people do not require hot water on a daily basis. It is worth noting that, water heating tends to be within the top three energy hogs of any household. Though the initial cost may be daunting, a solar water heater is one of the wisest solar investments possible.

For more information on solar water heaters, view our other articles.