Solar hot water heating services in Waterloo

How efficient are these systems?

After installing a solar water heater, most homeowners enjoy their monthly bills dropping 50% to 80%. The exact savings will depend on various factors such as usage, system efficiency, geographic location, government subsidies/incentives, and cost of fuel used in backup heaters.

How do they work?

The two basic components of a solar–based water heating system are the solar collector array and the storage tank. Additionally, an active type solar water heater will feature circulating controls and pumps, which are not present in the passive type.

An active water heating system with direct circulation has pumps that continuously operate, pushing water to the solar collectors. Direct circulation is good for installations in warm climates. Conversely, indirect circulation heating systems pump a special heat–transferring fluid through the solar collectors; this anti–freeze fluid leaves the collectors and enters an indoor heat exchanger, in which the water itself is heated. Indirect circulation installations are useful in colder climates.

Active solar heating systems are generally more efficient than passive systems. But the passive type is often longer–lived and more reliable.

Solar hot water systems have one or two storage tanks. If the storage tank is also the backup heater, this is a single tank installation. In a system with two tanks, the conventional heater tank is separate from the solar tank; water flows into the former from the latter.

A residential solar water heater installation will typically use one of three different kinds of sunlight collectors: flat–plate, integral collector–storage, or evacuated tube.

Which system is right for you?

Determining the solar heating system that suits your needs can be somewhat complex. We are happy to advise you. Our technicians are up to date on relevant codes and regulations and will help you install a system for maximum energy efficiency.

After installation, we recommend regular maintenance to ensure your system continues to work smoothly. For example, the solar collector’s glazing may need periodic cleaning.

Call today to learn more about your solar water heating options and receive your free in–home estimate.