Do you believe that solar power is a wonderful way to get free hot water in your home? You can make and fit diy solar water heating easily and cheaply, perhaps for under 100 dollars depending on the materials you have available. Commercial solar water heaters can cost over 1,000 dollars so making a solar water heater yourself will save you hundreds of dollars, paying for itself in a month or two. And think of the savings every month after that!
The sun will heat your water anywhere in the world – even in the winter! It is possible that solar heat might not provide all your hot water (it often does), but it will definitely save you a large chunk of your utility bill. Savings of one third are quite usual. These solar heating systems are efficient, simple and environmentally green. Making a solar water heater is easily a weekend project, provided you plan it properly beforehandand assemble all the necessary parts.
The system consists of a simple glazed solar collector box containing water tubes that, in turn, are connected to the hot and cold water pipes of your existing hot water tank. Normally a drain valve is fitted should you need to empty the system for some reason, such as going away for a winter vacation. Plumbing is easy and no special skills or tools are needed. 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.
Installing a solar water heater will not harm your existing domestic hot water system. In fact, by reducing the operating demands on your existing system, the solar hot water heater will help extend the life of your boiler or immersion heater and also save on utility and maintenance costs. A further advantage is that solar heat is a renewable resource, so there is an eco-bonus for fitting a solar water heater as well.
And it could have other uses. 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. Homemade solar water heaters are an ideal way of getting free heat in your house.
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.
But, as always, there are pitfalls for the inexperienced when trying to make and fit a solar water heater. It makes a lot of sense to get expert guidance and advice at the planning stage and before you start to build. The cost will be very small, and you will get full assurance that you are doing the job properly and safely. You will find out more about this on our specialized website.
In conclusion, we know from experience that making and fitting a solar water heating system will give you immense satisfaction, a lot of fun and really significant savings, so why not give it a try?
