The amount of heat required for water heating is variable. In fact, the frequent heating of water through traditional appliances may suffice to your needs without any hassle, but, the ecological balance gets compromised. Whether it is through increased carbon emissions, higher energy consumption, or wastage of resources, the traditional heater used for water heating has a few loopholes that can be done away with by switching to sustainable resources. To be precise, the solar water heater system is one of the practical, cost-effective, and energy-efficient solutions that should be considered for homeowners and professionals.
Basically, the energy tapped through sunlight directly makes water heating simplified, convenient, and eco-friendly. Being a renewable resource of energy, solar energy is available in abundance and can be recreated without affecting the environment. Moreover, the energy savings increase as the sunlight is used for water heating applications, thereby, the utility bills get reduced. In terms of longevity, the solar water heater performs efficiently for a longer span of time if the product is maintained properly. It further implies that hot water can be obtained for many years consistently through proper maintenance of solar water heater. It’s time to explore multiple segments that make solar water heaters and domestic heat pumps worthwhile.
Top 5 Highlights Of Solar Heater – The Sustainable & Green Water Heating Solution
Whether it is domestic, commercial, or industrial use, solar water heating appliances have filled the gaps in the Indian market through the use of renewable energy resources. To cut it short, the components of solar water heaters including solar collectors and storage tanks utilize Sun’s thermal energy for water heating. However, the mechanism of this sustainable water heating system is variable and offers proper outcomes depending on the type of solar collectors as well as the circulation system. Following are some of the highlights related to the solar heater system used for various heating applications that should be understood before its purchase:
Collector types and their utility
Primarily, there are three types of solar collectors, including, batch collectors, flat-plate collectors, and evacuated tube collectors. The main function of these collectors is to absorb the sunlight and convert it into heat. In the case of batch collectors, the dark-colored tubes or tanks in the insulated box heat water and retain its warm temperature until drawn! These types of solar collectors are ideal for the cold climate.
On the other hand, the copper tubes are fitted on the absorber plate in the case of flat-plate collectors. In this type of collector, the flat-plate assembly is covered with tempered glass in an insulated box, wherein, a series of parallel tubes are connected towards the end of the two pipes along with the inlet & outlet manifolds. Additionally, in the case of evacuated tube collectors, the thermos principle is used for water heating, wherein, the glass tubes consisting of absorbent material are connected for the efficient outcome. The tubes are evacuated to prevent heat loss, thereby, absorbing sunlight to heat the fluid or water inside!
Storage tank
The storage tank is used for storing the water being heated through solar water heater. Basically, this tank is well-insulated to minimize heat loss.
Temperature controller
With the help of this temperature regulating system, the performance of solar water heater system, radiation levels, and the operation of the appliance are monitored accurately. As a result, the performance and efficiency of the solar water heating system can be improved.
Heat transfer fluid
With the optimal use of solar collectors, heat transfer fluid is properly circulated, initially, and then, it gets transferred to the water. This mechanism is accomplished through the heat exchanger.
Backup heating system
In areas with limited sunlight, the backup heating system is used for some solar heating systems. Specifically, during the high demand for water heating solutions, this backup system is used to ensure sufficient solar energy.
How Is Solar Water Heater Different From Domestic Heat Pumps?
Even though the solar water heating system and the domestic heat pump are renewable resources, but, they have a significant difference between the two. While domestic heat pumps require ambient heat in the surrounding air to operate while the solar water heater employs direct sunlight and indirect solar radiation for water heating applications. If you are not sure how to choose between these two sustainable water heating appliances, then, consider the circumstances and availability of resources to make an informed decision. In short, if you stay at a location that has shade most of the time in a day, then, the lack of sunlight may not make solar water heater a practical solution. On the contrary, a domestic heat pump will be the ideal solution as it requires surrounding air to heat water. Nevertheless, it is essential to note that all the factors supporting the performance of the water heating system should be checked before taking the final call!
Lastly, you should remember that embracing green practices of water heating will protect the environment while offering efficient results!