Installing solar water heating systems

How do I install a solar hot water system?

(Learn more about the types of systems available here.) In most solar hot water installations, the first step is to put the solar collectors in place on your roof. Most solar hot water collectors are similar in shape to photovoltaic solar panels and will lie flat on your roof.

What is a solar water heater?

Solar water heaters -- sometimes called solar domestic 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.

How do you build a solar water heater?

As mentioned, the most common DIY solar water heater consists of a collector, a coil network, a cold water inlet and an outlet for hot water. Here’s a very basic outline of the procedure for building one: Build the collector box using lightweight plywood (1/4 to 3/8 inches thick) for the base and 1-by-4-inch cedar for the frame.

How to install solar water heater on a roof?

One of the preliminary steps in learning how to install solar water heater on a roof is understanding your site’s solar potential. A site assessment helps you determine if your roof gets enough sunlight during the day and whether it can bear the weight of the solar panels.

Why should you install a solar water heater?

A solar water heater taps into the enormous energy of the sun, providing hot water to your home even in the chilliest of winters, without leaving a carbon footprint! Importantly, installing a solar water heater also reduces your electricity bill significantly over time.

How do I get a solar water heater rated?

To qualify, the system must be rated by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC) or a comparable entity, which may include some commercial DIY kits. As mentioned, the most common DIY solar water heater consists of a collector, a coil network, a cold water inlet and an outlet for hot water.