Feb 03 2010
Build a Solar Hot Water System
Did you know that the sun can give you almost free hot water? A diy solar water heating system is easy and very cheap – less than 100 dollars is often quoted. Buying a ready made solar hot water heater will cost upwards of 1,000 dollars so making a solar water heater yourself will save you hundreds of dollars, repaying its cost in one or two months. And think of the savings every month after that!
The sun will heat your water anywhere in the world – even in the winter! It might not provide all your hot water (although it often does), but it will certainly make a large dent in your utility bills. At least one third is quite common. These systems are simple, effective and very eco-friendly. It is quite possible to make and fit one of these systems over a weekend, provided you plan the job in advanceand assemble all the necessary parts.
Solar hot water systems comprise a simple glazed collector box fitted with a chain of water pipes, which connect to the domestic hot and cold water pipes at or near your hot water tank. Normally a drain valve is fitted should you need to empty the system for some reason, such as leaving the house empty in winter. You will find the assembly easy and will not need any special skills or tools. The solar collector box will be sited and angled to face the sun at noon, and this can be on a roof or against a suitable wall. You will be able to get all the materials needed at your local hardware store, although most likely you will have some or all of these materials already.
You will not damage your existing hot water system when making and fitting a solar water heater. In fact, by lowering the use of the existing heaters, the solar water heater will help extend the service of your boiler or immersion heater and also save on utility and maintenance costs. Remember also that solar heating is free energy that reduces our use of non-renewable fuels and lowers the carbon footprint, so there is an environmental bonus for installing a solar hot water system as well.
You can use it for other things as well. Solar hot water systems can be used for heating swimming pools by providing a gentle, all-year-round source of free heating. Do you have, or are you planning on fitting, underfloor central heating? This typically operates on a constant supply of warm (not hot) water with a low flow rate. Diy solar water heating is a great way of warming your house for free.
There is something very satisfying about making a simple device that saves you money, gives you free hot water on demand and helps save the planet at the same time.
However, even though a solar water heating system is simple, it is easy to make mistakes during installation if you are not experienced enough. It is really sensible, therefore, to invest in expert professional guidance and help when planning and building your solar hot water system. This is a small but vital investment that costs surprisingly little but will ensure you do everything safely and properly. You will find out more about this on our specialized website.
In summary, we can assure you that making and installing your own solar water heater is a satisfying and fun project that will give you years of savings, so why not give it a go?
