Are you trying to find a solution to lower your carbon footprint and lower your energy costs at the same time? Solar water heating devices are the solution. There are numerous skilled plumbers in Kelowna who can install and maintain these systems for you. We’ll discuss solar water heating systems in this post, including what they are, how they operate, and how to hire a qualified plumber to install them.
What are Solar Water Heating Systems?
Utilising the sun’s energy, solar water heating systems warm water for use in your home. Solar collectors, a storage tank, and a circulation system make up the systems. Usually, the solar collectors are mounted on the roof of your house or another adjacent building, like a garage or shed. They take in the energy from the sun and convert it into a fluid that circulates throughout the system, heating the water in the storage tank.
How do Solar Water Heating Systems Work?
Solar water heating systems heat water for use in your house by harnessing the energy of the sun. The solar collectors, which are frequently constructed of glass, metal, or plastic, are where the process begins. The fluid that circulates through the system and heats the water in the storage tank is created by these collectors, which take in the sun’s energy and convert it to a fluid. Following that, the warm water is utilised for showers, dishwashing, laundry, and other household chores.
Types of Solar Water Heating Systems
There are two main types of solar water heating systems: passive and active.
Passive Solar Water Heating Systems
The simplest and most affordable form of technology are passive solar water heating systems. The system’s water circulation depends on natural convection. The water rises into the storage tank, which is placed above the solar collectors, as it warms up. As the hot water is utilised, colder water replaces it, and that water is heated as it sinks into the collectors.
Active Solar Water Heating Systems
Systems that use solar energy for active water heating are more complicated and expensive than passive ones. They circulate the water throughout the system using pumps and controllers. The circulation system can be direct or indirect, and the storage tank can be anyplace. Water travels directly through solar collectors and into the storage tank in a direct system. In an indirect system, heat is transferred from the fluid in the collectors to the water in the storage tank via a heat exchanger.
Benefits of Solar Water Heating Systems
There are many benefits to using solar water heating systems. Here are just a few:
- Reduced energy bills: Since you’re using the sun’s energy to heat your water, you’ll save money on your energy bills.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar water heating systems are environmentally friendly and help reduce your carbon footprint.
- Increased home value: Solar water heating systems are considered an upgrade and can increase the value of your home.
- Long lifespan: Solar water heating systems can last up to 20 years or more with proper maintenance.
- Low maintenance: Solar water heating systems require very little maintenance and can be easily maintained by a qualified plumber.
Factors to Consider Before Installing a Solar Water Heating System
Before installing a solar water heating system, there are several factors to consider.
Climate and Solar Resource
The greatest locations for solar water heating systems are those with abundant sunlight. A solar water heating system might not be the ideal choice for you if you reside in an area with many cloudy days or lengthy periods of darkness.
Size of Household and Hot Water Demand
The size of your household and your hot water demand will determine the size of the solar water heating system you need. A qualified plumber can help you determine the right size for your home.
Cost
Depending on the type and size of the system, a solar water heating system’s price can change. While they would initially cost more than conventional water heating systems, the long-term savings on energy costs can more than make up for that.
Finding the Right Kelowna Plumber for Your Solar Water Heating System
It’s crucial to hire a licensed and professional plumber to install and maintain your solar water heating system. When selecting a Kelowna plumber for your solar water heating system, keep the following things in mind.:
Credentials and Licenses
Make sure the plumber you choose is licensed, insured, and has the necessary credentials to install and maintain solar water heating systems.
Experience and Reviews
Look for a plumber with experience in installing and maintaining solar water heating systems. Read reviews and ask for references from previous customers.
Warranty and Maintenance
Make sure the plumber offers a warranty on their work and provides maintenance services for your solar water heating system.
DIY vs. Hiring a Plumber
While it may be tempting to install a solar water heating system yourself, it’s important to hire a qualified plumber. Installing a solar water heating system requires knowledge of plumbing, electrical, and construction work. A qualified plumber can ensure that the system is installed correctly and safely.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a way to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your energy bills, consider installing a solar water heating system. With the help of a qualified Kelowna plumber, you can enjoy the benefits of this environmentally friendly technology.
