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PRE-WIRING FOR SOLAR POWER
Ideally, solar wiring should aim to be completed when an electrician is installing all the other wiring jobs around the home. Pre-wiring a house for solar power is when an electrician runs a solar cable from a roof cavity to a location in the garage that is suitable for a wall mounted inverter. This saves solar installers time, which means money saved on labour costs and ensures all wires are conduit and well hidden within the cavity of the walls.
Considering installing solar power but not ready to commit yet? Pre-wiring the house for solar power allows for easy solar installations anytime in the future, and only costs a couple of hundred dollars.
ROOF DESIGN
Solar panel placements, angles and aesthetics should be considered before finalising house drawings.
For maximum solar gain, install solar panels on north facing roofs, especially if planning to install batteries. However, should more power planned to be consumed during morning hours, solar panels on an south facing roofs could be the better option. Some experts say ‘west is best’, which is true if more power is consumed in the afternoon. If installing solar panels on an east/ west facing roof, versus a north facing roof, then 15% of the potential power generation could be lost, but you could gain greater solar self-consumption.
Building a home with a flat roof? Tilt the solar panels to a minimum of 10 degrees - for maximum solar generation tilt to 25-30 degrees. For aesthetic purposes some customers choose to tilt the solar panels to a smaller angle. Tilting solar panels is an extra cost, which is worth remembering. Decent amount of spacing between each row of solar panels is needed to avoid shading.
Avoid objects that cause shading on the roof such as aerials, satellite dishes, chimneys or flues. Shading can cause the power output to decrease significantly.
Once the roof has been designed request 3 free quotes via My Solar Quotes online platform, and request a solar panel layout from our solar design experts.
FIGURING OUT A DRAFT LAYOUT FOR THE SOLAR PANELS ON YOUR ROOF?
The size of solar panels vary based on brand and model. Generally, they are 1650 x 990 x 35 mm for a 270 watt panel - therefore the area size is 1.63m2. Allow a 15mm gap between each solar panel. Solar panels should be at least 200mm away from the roofs edge. There are many considerations for a solar array design, so make sure the final designs are approved by a solar expert.
WHAT ROOFING MATERIAL WORKS WITH SOLAR PANELS?
Corrugated iron/metal roofs are currently the easiest roofing material to install solar panels on. Other roofing materials that are solar friendly include; metal tile, asphalt shingle, bitumen, concrete tile, membrane roofs and more. It is a struggle to find any installation company that is willing to install on a terracotta tile roof, due to the high chance of the tiles breaking.
SOLAR POWER - SHOULD I ASK ARCHITECT OR HOME BUILDING COMPANY?
Some architects may have knowledge about eco homes and energy efficient designs, and in that case they can point customers in the right direction. Home building companies generally only want to sell products that they can clip the ticket on, and will potentially steer customers away from anything they don’t sell. Some home building companies that promote eco-friendly homes will have selected solar vendors that they will refer you to.
For more info contact solar water heater dubai or call us at +971 4 252 2966
Ideally, solar wiring should aim to be completed when an electrician is installing all the other wiring jobs around the home. Pre-wiring a house for solar power is when an electrician runs a solar cable from a roof cavity to a location in the garage that is suitable for a wall mounted inverter. This saves solar installers time, which means money saved on labour costs and ensures all wires are conduit and well hidden within the cavity of the walls.
Considering installing solar power but not ready to commit yet? Pre-wiring the house for solar power allows for easy solar installations anytime in the future, and only costs a couple of hundred dollars.
ROOF DESIGN
Solar panel placements, angles and aesthetics should be considered before finalising house drawings.
For maximum solar gain, install solar panels on north facing roofs, especially if planning to install batteries. However, should more power planned to be consumed during morning hours, solar panels on an south facing roofs could be the better option. Some experts say ‘west is best’, which is true if more power is consumed in the afternoon. If installing solar panels on an east/ west facing roof, versus a north facing roof, then 15% of the potential power generation could be lost, but you could gain greater solar self-consumption.
Building a home with a flat roof? Tilt the solar panels to a minimum of 10 degrees - for maximum solar generation tilt to 25-30 degrees. For aesthetic purposes some customers choose to tilt the solar panels to a smaller angle. Tilting solar panels is an extra cost, which is worth remembering. Decent amount of spacing between each row of solar panels is needed to avoid shading.
Avoid objects that cause shading on the roof such as aerials, satellite dishes, chimneys or flues. Shading can cause the power output to decrease significantly.
Once the roof has been designed request 3 free quotes via My Solar Quotes online platform, and request a solar panel layout from our solar design experts.
FIGURING OUT A DRAFT LAYOUT FOR THE SOLAR PANELS ON YOUR ROOF?
The size of solar panels vary based on brand and model. Generally, they are 1650 x 990 x 35 mm for a 270 watt panel - therefore the area size is 1.63m2. Allow a 15mm gap between each solar panel. Solar panels should be at least 200mm away from the roofs edge. There are many considerations for a solar array design, so make sure the final designs are approved by a solar expert.
WHAT ROOFING MATERIAL WORKS WITH SOLAR PANELS?
Corrugated iron/metal roofs are currently the easiest roofing material to install solar panels on. Other roofing materials that are solar friendly include; metal tile, asphalt shingle, bitumen, concrete tile, membrane roofs and more. It is a struggle to find any installation company that is willing to install on a terracotta tile roof, due to the high chance of the tiles breaking.
SOLAR POWER - SHOULD I ASK ARCHITECT OR HOME BUILDING COMPANY?
Some architects may have knowledge about eco homes and energy efficient designs, and in that case they can point customers in the right direction. Home building companies generally only want to sell products that they can clip the ticket on, and will potentially steer customers away from anything they don’t sell. Some home building companies that promote eco-friendly homes will have selected solar vendors that they will refer you to.
For more info contact solar water heater dubai or call us at +971 4 252 2966
- Published on
Tankless water heaters are growing in popularity, as homeowners begin to realize the cost saving and efficiency benefits of moving away from traditional, tank-based water heaters.
Compared to tank-based water heaters, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan, lower operating costs, and a number of other benefits. But how do you know if a tankless water heater is right for you – and if it’s worth the investment?
In this article, we’ll discuss the top 5 signs that it may be time for you to invest in a tankless water heater. Let’s get into it now, and help you decide if it’s time to make the switch!
Your Old Water Heater Is Wearing Out
Traditional, tank-based water heaters usually only have a lifespan of about 10-15 years, and come with a warranty of 4-6 years, depending on the manufacturer.
As a water heater gets older, it becomes less efficient. The heating elements and other parts of the heater can get clogged with grime and corrosion, leading to higher heating costs, and poor performance.
Most professionals recommend having your water heater inspected every year, particularly after the warranty runs out. Leaks, corrosion, and other issues can reduce the lifespan of your water heater – and even cause damage to your plumbing.
If your old water heater is wearing out, you may want to consider foregoing the traditional, tank-based water heater in favor of a tankless model. Because you’ll be purchasing a new unit anyway, this is the perfect time to make the switch!
You Want To Lower Your Monthly Power Bill
According to the US Department of Energy, water heaters consume about 18% of your monthly electricity usage. The only appliances that use more power are your HVAC systems – which consume an estimated 48% of power.
So, if you’re interested in lowering your monthly energy bill, investing a tankless water heater, compared to a tank-based water heater, may be a great choice. Why? It’s all about the design.
Traditional, tank-based water heaters use a large tank-based reservoir – usually ranging from 36-60 gallons or more, depending on the size of the house. The water in this reservoir is heated to your preferred temperature – and then it’s held in the insulated tank, ready to be used on-demand.
This means that, whenever you’re not using hot water, your tank-based water heater is still consuming power. It must maintain a steady temperature, to ensure that your hot water is available whenever you need it. This is true when you’re at work, sleeping, on vacation – or any other time you’re not at home and using hot water.
In contrast, tankless water heaters provide you with hot water on-demand. Water flows through an advanced system of electric or gas heating elements, which instantly heat it up the desired temperature. There is no need for the storage of hot water – which boost efficiency dramatically.
What are the numbers behind the savings? According to the US Department of Energy, a tankless water heater uses up to 34% less power to heat water, because there is no “parasitic draw” – water doesn’t have to be kept at a particular temperature in a tank.
Based on the same study, gas-based tankless heaters can save the average family (using 45 gallons of hot water per day) around $108 per year, while electric tankless heaters bring in savings of about $44 per year.
You Constantly Run Out Of Hot Water
Running out of hot water can be incredibly annoying, particularly if you are getting ready for the day, and need to take a shower, or you’re trying to get chores like doing laundry or washing dishes out of the way.
If you have a smaller hot water heater, such as a 36 gallon model, you may run out of water regularly, particularly if your family members tend to take long showers.
The design of a tank-based water heater means that it takes a long time to recover once the majority of hot water has been used. Cold water enters the tank, and must be heated by the elements – and if you use up your hot water faster than it can be replenished, you’ll run out.
This is not the case with an on-demand water, tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters are rated to provide a certain number of gallons per minute (GPM) – this is the rate at which the heater can constantly heat and deliver hot water to appliances and faucets throughout your home.
Flow rates usually range from between 2-5 GPM for tankless water heaters. For comparison, a high-flow shower head usually uses about 2-2.5 GPM, and dishwashers/washing machines use about 2-3 GPM, depending on the heat setting and energy-efficiency of the design.
Simply put, if you have a large enough tankless water heater – or multiple units – it will be essentially impossible to run out of hot water.
Your Hot Water Use Tends To Be Spread Throughout The Day
Tankless water heaters do have a number of great advantages – but they are not ideal if your family tends to use a large volume of hot water simultaneously.
If, for example, you have a family of 6, and you regularly have 3 or 4 people taking showers at the same time in the morning – while the dishwasher or other appliances are running – you may have to invest in multiple tankless heaters to keep up with demand.
In this case, a large-capacity tank-based water heater, with a 65-80 gallon capacity may be a better choice, because running 2 or more tankless water heaters can be quite expensive. In the long run, you will still save money – but these savings will not be as significant.
However, tankless heaters are still a better choice if you make a few lifestyle choices that will spread your hot water more efficiently throughout the day. For example, you and your family could simply take turns using 1-2 showers – ensuring you don’t run out of water – and run the dishwasher and laundry only at night, to make sure you don’t exceed the GPM rating of your tankless heater.
Recognize Any Of These Signs? Invest In A Tankless System Today!
If you’ve been thinking about buying a tankless water heater, but you weren’t sure if it was the right choice for you, this guide is sure to help. So think about your own family, your priorities, and your budget – whether you buy a tankless system or not, you’re sure to make the right choice, based on the information presented in this guide.
For service solar water heater maintenance dubai or call us +971 4 252 2966.
Compared to tank-based water heaters, tankless water heaters have a longer lifespan, lower operating costs, and a number of other benefits. But how do you know if a tankless water heater is right for you – and if it’s worth the investment?
In this article, we’ll discuss the top 5 signs that it may be time for you to invest in a tankless water heater. Let’s get into it now, and help you decide if it’s time to make the switch!
Your Old Water Heater Is Wearing Out
Traditional, tank-based water heaters usually only have a lifespan of about 10-15 years, and come with a warranty of 4-6 years, depending on the manufacturer.
As a water heater gets older, it becomes less efficient. The heating elements and other parts of the heater can get clogged with grime and corrosion, leading to higher heating costs, and poor performance.
Most professionals recommend having your water heater inspected every year, particularly after the warranty runs out. Leaks, corrosion, and other issues can reduce the lifespan of your water heater – and even cause damage to your plumbing.
If your old water heater is wearing out, you may want to consider foregoing the traditional, tank-based water heater in favor of a tankless model. Because you’ll be purchasing a new unit anyway, this is the perfect time to make the switch!
You Want To Lower Your Monthly Power Bill
According to the US Department of Energy, water heaters consume about 18% of your monthly electricity usage. The only appliances that use more power are your HVAC systems – which consume an estimated 48% of power.
So, if you’re interested in lowering your monthly energy bill, investing a tankless water heater, compared to a tank-based water heater, may be a great choice. Why? It’s all about the design.
Traditional, tank-based water heaters use a large tank-based reservoir – usually ranging from 36-60 gallons or more, depending on the size of the house. The water in this reservoir is heated to your preferred temperature – and then it’s held in the insulated tank, ready to be used on-demand.
This means that, whenever you’re not using hot water, your tank-based water heater is still consuming power. It must maintain a steady temperature, to ensure that your hot water is available whenever you need it. This is true when you’re at work, sleeping, on vacation – or any other time you’re not at home and using hot water.
In contrast, tankless water heaters provide you with hot water on-demand. Water flows through an advanced system of electric or gas heating elements, which instantly heat it up the desired temperature. There is no need for the storage of hot water – which boost efficiency dramatically.
What are the numbers behind the savings? According to the US Department of Energy, a tankless water heater uses up to 34% less power to heat water, because there is no “parasitic draw” – water doesn’t have to be kept at a particular temperature in a tank.
Based on the same study, gas-based tankless heaters can save the average family (using 45 gallons of hot water per day) around $108 per year, while electric tankless heaters bring in savings of about $44 per year.
You Constantly Run Out Of Hot Water
Running out of hot water can be incredibly annoying, particularly if you are getting ready for the day, and need to take a shower, or you’re trying to get chores like doing laundry or washing dishes out of the way.
If you have a smaller hot water heater, such as a 36 gallon model, you may run out of water regularly, particularly if your family members tend to take long showers.
The design of a tank-based water heater means that it takes a long time to recover once the majority of hot water has been used. Cold water enters the tank, and must be heated by the elements – and if you use up your hot water faster than it can be replenished, you’ll run out.
This is not the case with an on-demand water, tankless water heater. Tankless water heaters are rated to provide a certain number of gallons per minute (GPM) – this is the rate at which the heater can constantly heat and deliver hot water to appliances and faucets throughout your home.
Flow rates usually range from between 2-5 GPM for tankless water heaters. For comparison, a high-flow shower head usually uses about 2-2.5 GPM, and dishwashers/washing machines use about 2-3 GPM, depending on the heat setting and energy-efficiency of the design.
Simply put, if you have a large enough tankless water heater – or multiple units – it will be essentially impossible to run out of hot water.
Your Hot Water Use Tends To Be Spread Throughout The Day
Tankless water heaters do have a number of great advantages – but they are not ideal if your family tends to use a large volume of hot water simultaneously.
If, for example, you have a family of 6, and you regularly have 3 or 4 people taking showers at the same time in the morning – while the dishwasher or other appliances are running – you may have to invest in multiple tankless heaters to keep up with demand.
In this case, a large-capacity tank-based water heater, with a 65-80 gallon capacity may be a better choice, because running 2 or more tankless water heaters can be quite expensive. In the long run, you will still save money – but these savings will not be as significant.
However, tankless heaters are still a better choice if you make a few lifestyle choices that will spread your hot water more efficiently throughout the day. For example, you and your family could simply take turns using 1-2 showers – ensuring you don’t run out of water – and run the dishwasher and laundry only at night, to make sure you don’t exceed the GPM rating of your tankless heater.
Recognize Any Of These Signs? Invest In A Tankless System Today!
If you’ve been thinking about buying a tankless water heater, but you weren’t sure if it was the right choice for you, this guide is sure to help. So think about your own family, your priorities, and your budget – whether you buy a tankless system or not, you’re sure to make the right choice, based on the information presented in this guide.
For service solar water heater maintenance dubai or call us +971 4 252 2966.
- Published on
The time of year has arrived to start thinking about how to keep your Winter utility bills under control as you watch the mercury drop. If you are now just starting to see a rise in your monthly bills, unfortunately, that may get worse depending on where you live. Is it even possible to save money during this season? What lengths will you have to go to in order to hold on to your hard earned cash? How complicated is this going to get?
We are going to break this down into three major areas. First, by working with the things you might already have. Second, a few gadgets that can help you with your energy saving mission. Third, Bigger ticket items that can help you save even more over longer periods of time. This is our ultimate guide to lowering your Winter power costs.
Working With What You’ve Got
The Lost Room – You might be heating a space that you rarely occupy. You know, the room that you never want to hang out in or a guest space that the cat tends to be the only visitor in. Take inventory of what rooms you are actually using and wall off the rest of them. Close the vents and seal them for the time being so airflow will get to the rooms you are using more on a daily basis.
Look Up – Do you have ceiling fans in your rooms? You might think that fans are typically used to cool spaces down. If you set your fan to a clockwise rotation, the heat that sits at the top of the room will be pushed down to keep you warmer. You will want to use a lower setting so the air doesn’t cool on its way down to you.
Exhaust Systems – This might be the fan in your kitchen or those in your bathrooms. Have you ever turned one of these on and walked out of your house? These exhaust systems can release tons of warm air out of your home. Try to avoid using these in the Winter and if you do need them, remember to shut them off after they’ve been running for a few minutes.
Drafty – It might be a good time to hunt down the drafty spots in your home. Many of these spots can be a major source of heat loss. If you have an attic or basement these should be some of the first spaces you check. After that, go to all the access points of your home like doors, windows, and outlets. You can fix many of these on your own with things like insulation, caulk or even weatherstripping. A good trick is to turn off all of your air systems and light an incense stick. The smoke from this stick will lead you to where the draft(s) are coming from so you can address them.
Filter Check – A quick change of your air filter will impact your heating unit noticeably. These filters can work overtime trying to compensate for build up on your filter. If you can change these out regularly all Winter, since you are spending most of your time indoors, you will see a difference in your heat bill.
Wash and Fold – Laundry is not only “not” fun, but it’s also wreaking havoc on your energy bill. Both units use heat to get your clothes clean so now is the time to pay attention to how much laundry you really need to do. Try using cold water to wash your clothes, this actually preserves the fibers of your clothes better than hot water. If you can hang dry some of your laundry pieces, that habit alone will certainly result in a lower heat bill.
Unplug – The amount of standby power from plugged in (unused) electronics can add up to as much as $100 a year. You can use a power surger or power strip to help you turn everything off at once. No need to pay for this energy if your paying for to just be plugged in, right? You might also want to look into smart outlets which can be linked to a phone app. From your phone, you can have complete control over your home’s electrical grid, whether you are home or not.
The Lesson: When you work with what you already have to stay cozy this Winter, you become highly aware of what is going on in your home. You learn more about energy sucking spaces and how to solve those problems rather than ignoring these and forking over more and more money every month.
Some Simple Adjustments
The Humidifier – Winter months can leave the air in your home feeling extra dry. It is air with some humidity that actually feels warmer because it holds heat better. A humidifier will help you lower your thermostat, and as a result, help you save money. Also, if you add plants to your home, this will also add humidity to the air.
Just Add Insulation – A major money pitfall is all the heat escaping from various points in your home. With insulation being fairly inexpensive, this is truly one the best ways you can save on your heating bill. There are various types of insulation, just ask an expert at your local home improvement store for some guidance on your specific space.
Call it in – A quick check of your system is always a great idea. A professional will evaluate how well your furnace and other appliances are running and catch any mishaps that might be causing inefficiencies. Since they are dealing with these systems all the time, they might be able to pass along some additional tricks to save you money.
Tis The Season of LEDs – LED lights are a must during the holiday season if you don’t want to get burned on your bill. These light options for decorating can use up to 75% less energy than their earlier designed counterparts. Also, if you’re not enjoying them, unplug them when you’re away from the house or off to bed.
Smart Vents – Just like the better known “smart lights” there are now smart vents that can be installed in your home. Rather than manually going around your property, you can control these vents from an app on your phone. The same app you use for your smart lights will likely be able to simultaneously work with your vents. This is a great option when you are away from your home and forgot to shut these, or if you’re just coming back from a long weekend trip and would like your home to be warm when you get there.
The Lesson: Small add-ons or gadgets can be some of the innovative ways to keep your home running as efficiently as possible. These smaller investments can add up to hundreds of dollars in energy savings a year. Keep up to speed with the latest energy saving products and you’ll be ahead of the Winter weather and even be prepared for Summer when temps swing the other way.
Some Bigger Investments
Smart Thermostats – These devices can do wonders for controlling the heat and air in your home. After you program them, they can automatically adjust the temperature of your home with you barely knowing it’s happening. People who have used these kinds of thermostats have reported a 10-to-15 percent reduction in their heat bills. This can add up to hundreds of dollars a year.
Appliance Evaluation – Maybe it’s time to consider some energy-saving appliances. If you are using an older refrigerator, washer, or dryer; it might be the perfect time to switch them out. These larger expenditures might not be on everyone’s list, but if they are, chances are switching to energy star appliances will save you a good bit of cash annually. On average, 20% of the electricity we use comes from the appliances we run. Switching your water heater should also be on your list. Tankless systems have a number of advantages and will maximize your heating budget.
Fancy Shower – A high-efficiency shower head is not only a nice luxury to add to your bathrooms, come to find out, they are also a great energy saver. Did you know you could save upwards of 10-to-15 thousand gallons of water by making this change? This will also directly impact your water use bill.
Heaters – Heaters get a bad rap for being a less than safe option in your home. However, these units can be used safely if you follow their directions and only use them when you’re home. By using your thermostat to control temperature, you risk catapulting your heat cost as you fidget with getting it just the right temperature. An energy efficient heater is a great way to use only what you make instead of the nonstop use of a traditional thermostat unit.
The Lesson: Larger purchases to make your home more energy efficient in the Winter can be a hard cost to take upfront. However, these typically have a longer shelf life and you may even get tax breaks for installing them. Be sure to investigate how these products can work for your home and lifestyle and ask your tax professional if you can see even more savings as you add products to your home
For service contact solar water heater maintenance dubai or call us at +971 4 252 9966
We are going to break this down into three major areas. First, by working with the things you might already have. Second, a few gadgets that can help you with your energy saving mission. Third, Bigger ticket items that can help you save even more over longer periods of time. This is our ultimate guide to lowering your Winter power costs.
Working With What You’ve Got
The Lost Room – You might be heating a space that you rarely occupy. You know, the room that you never want to hang out in or a guest space that the cat tends to be the only visitor in. Take inventory of what rooms you are actually using and wall off the rest of them. Close the vents and seal them for the time being so airflow will get to the rooms you are using more on a daily basis.
Look Up – Do you have ceiling fans in your rooms? You might think that fans are typically used to cool spaces down. If you set your fan to a clockwise rotation, the heat that sits at the top of the room will be pushed down to keep you warmer. You will want to use a lower setting so the air doesn’t cool on its way down to you.
Exhaust Systems – This might be the fan in your kitchen or those in your bathrooms. Have you ever turned one of these on and walked out of your house? These exhaust systems can release tons of warm air out of your home. Try to avoid using these in the Winter and if you do need them, remember to shut them off after they’ve been running for a few minutes.
Drafty – It might be a good time to hunt down the drafty spots in your home. Many of these spots can be a major source of heat loss. If you have an attic or basement these should be some of the first spaces you check. After that, go to all the access points of your home like doors, windows, and outlets. You can fix many of these on your own with things like insulation, caulk or even weatherstripping. A good trick is to turn off all of your air systems and light an incense stick. The smoke from this stick will lead you to where the draft(s) are coming from so you can address them.
Filter Check – A quick change of your air filter will impact your heating unit noticeably. These filters can work overtime trying to compensate for build up on your filter. If you can change these out regularly all Winter, since you are spending most of your time indoors, you will see a difference in your heat bill.
Wash and Fold – Laundry is not only “not” fun, but it’s also wreaking havoc on your energy bill. Both units use heat to get your clothes clean so now is the time to pay attention to how much laundry you really need to do. Try using cold water to wash your clothes, this actually preserves the fibers of your clothes better than hot water. If you can hang dry some of your laundry pieces, that habit alone will certainly result in a lower heat bill.
Unplug – The amount of standby power from plugged in (unused) electronics can add up to as much as $100 a year. You can use a power surger or power strip to help you turn everything off at once. No need to pay for this energy if your paying for to just be plugged in, right? You might also want to look into smart outlets which can be linked to a phone app. From your phone, you can have complete control over your home’s electrical grid, whether you are home or not.
The Lesson: When you work with what you already have to stay cozy this Winter, you become highly aware of what is going on in your home. You learn more about energy sucking spaces and how to solve those problems rather than ignoring these and forking over more and more money every month.
Some Simple Adjustments
The Humidifier – Winter months can leave the air in your home feeling extra dry. It is air with some humidity that actually feels warmer because it holds heat better. A humidifier will help you lower your thermostat, and as a result, help you save money. Also, if you add plants to your home, this will also add humidity to the air.
Just Add Insulation – A major money pitfall is all the heat escaping from various points in your home. With insulation being fairly inexpensive, this is truly one the best ways you can save on your heating bill. There are various types of insulation, just ask an expert at your local home improvement store for some guidance on your specific space.
Call it in – A quick check of your system is always a great idea. A professional will evaluate how well your furnace and other appliances are running and catch any mishaps that might be causing inefficiencies. Since they are dealing with these systems all the time, they might be able to pass along some additional tricks to save you money.
Tis The Season of LEDs – LED lights are a must during the holiday season if you don’t want to get burned on your bill. These light options for decorating can use up to 75% less energy than their earlier designed counterparts. Also, if you’re not enjoying them, unplug them when you’re away from the house or off to bed.
Smart Vents – Just like the better known “smart lights” there are now smart vents that can be installed in your home. Rather than manually going around your property, you can control these vents from an app on your phone. The same app you use for your smart lights will likely be able to simultaneously work with your vents. This is a great option when you are away from your home and forgot to shut these, or if you’re just coming back from a long weekend trip and would like your home to be warm when you get there.
The Lesson: Small add-ons or gadgets can be some of the innovative ways to keep your home running as efficiently as possible. These smaller investments can add up to hundreds of dollars in energy savings a year. Keep up to speed with the latest energy saving products and you’ll be ahead of the Winter weather and even be prepared for Summer when temps swing the other way.
Some Bigger Investments
Smart Thermostats – These devices can do wonders for controlling the heat and air in your home. After you program them, they can automatically adjust the temperature of your home with you barely knowing it’s happening. People who have used these kinds of thermostats have reported a 10-to-15 percent reduction in their heat bills. This can add up to hundreds of dollars a year.
Appliance Evaluation – Maybe it’s time to consider some energy-saving appliances. If you are using an older refrigerator, washer, or dryer; it might be the perfect time to switch them out. These larger expenditures might not be on everyone’s list, but if they are, chances are switching to energy star appliances will save you a good bit of cash annually. On average, 20% of the electricity we use comes from the appliances we run. Switching your water heater should also be on your list. Tankless systems have a number of advantages and will maximize your heating budget.
Fancy Shower – A high-efficiency shower head is not only a nice luxury to add to your bathrooms, come to find out, they are also a great energy saver. Did you know you could save upwards of 10-to-15 thousand gallons of water by making this change? This will also directly impact your water use bill.
Heaters – Heaters get a bad rap for being a less than safe option in your home. However, these units can be used safely if you follow their directions and only use them when you’re home. By using your thermostat to control temperature, you risk catapulting your heat cost as you fidget with getting it just the right temperature. An energy efficient heater is a great way to use only what you make instead of the nonstop use of a traditional thermostat unit.
The Lesson: Larger purchases to make your home more energy efficient in the Winter can be a hard cost to take upfront. However, these typically have a longer shelf life and you may even get tax breaks for installing them. Be sure to investigate how these products can work for your home and lifestyle and ask your tax professional if you can see even more savings as you add products to your home
For service contact solar water heater maintenance dubai or call us at +971 4 252 9966
- Published on
Many households switch over to a solar system to reap the benefits of lower electricity costs, lower maintenance costs and to be more environmentally friendly. Despite this, many residents don’t see the savings in the electricity bills. This can be caused by poor installation or mis-understanding of how the system operates.
Tips To Get The Most From Your Solar System:
• Periodical Servicing. It is recommended by the manufacturers that your solar system be serviced every 5 years , not to only ensure the correct operation but also increase the lifespan of the system. This servicing also includes the replacement of the main valves within the system and anode to prevent the tank from corroding.
• Manually turning the booster on when you need it, rather than leaving it on automatically
• Use the majority of the hot water system at the end of the day when there is the largest quantity of hot water, that has been heated throughout the day
• Have your solar panels carefully cleaned regularly (the panels are thoroughly cleaned in the 5 yearly serviced)
• Ensure there are no trees or objects blocking the panels or tubes to allow for maximum sun exposure, especially in winter
• Ensure that the hot water pipes are insulated correctly
Each household’s solar system is set up for specific needs. If your solar system is not meeting your expectations and you aren’t seeing the electricity savings, call our office and schedule an appointment with our solar technician. Our technician can identify any issues you may be experiencing to ensure you are getting the most of the systems features.
CHOOSE NETWORK TODAY!
24/7 GUARANTEED SOLAR WATER HEATER MAINTENANCE
OUR CUSTOMERS LOVE US!
97% of Customers would use us again
Tips To Get The Most From Your Solar System:
• Periodical Servicing. It is recommended by the manufacturers that your solar system be serviced every 5 years , not to only ensure the correct operation but also increase the lifespan of the system. This servicing also includes the replacement of the main valves within the system and anode to prevent the tank from corroding.
• Manually turning the booster on when you need it, rather than leaving it on automatically
• Use the majority of the hot water system at the end of the day when there is the largest quantity of hot water, that has been heated throughout the day
• Have your solar panels carefully cleaned regularly (the panels are thoroughly cleaned in the 5 yearly serviced)
• Ensure there are no trees or objects blocking the panels or tubes to allow for maximum sun exposure, especially in winter
• Ensure that the hot water pipes are insulated correctly
Each household’s solar system is set up for specific needs. If your solar system is not meeting your expectations and you aren’t seeing the electricity savings, call our office and schedule an appointment with our solar technician. Our technician can identify any issues you may be experiencing to ensure you are getting the most of the systems features.
CHOOSE NETWORK TODAY!
24/7 GUARANTEED SOLAR WATER HEATER MAINTENANCE
OUR CUSTOMERS LOVE US!
97% of Customers would use us again
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Your water heater may be one of the appliances in your home you take for granted — until it stops working and you wind up in a chilly shower. Here are some maintenance steps to consider when it comes to draining your home water heater.
How to Drain Your Water HeaterOnce you’ve located your water heater and read over your owner’s manual, the Solar Water Heater Maintenance Dubai suggests the following steps on how to drain it. Remember, if you’re uncomfortable performing this type of maintenance on your water heater, make sure to call a plumber and schedule a professional draining.
Step 1: Shut off the water supply to your water heater.
Look at the top of the water heater. You’ll see a water pipe and a water shutoff valve going into the heater. Turn this valve to shut off the water to the tank.
Step 2: Turn off the power to the water heater.
If your heater is electric, shut the power off from the circuit breaker box. The correct fuse should be labeled as belonging to the water heater. It’s important to know that if you fail to shut off the power to your electric water heater, you risk burning out the element. If it’s a gas-powered water heater, shut off the gas by turning the valve on the gas supply line that runs to the tank.
Step 3: Give the water some time to cool off.
The water in your water heater is extremely hot. To help prevent injury, it’s a good idea to let your water heater sit overnight to allow the water within the tank some time to cool before you drain it.
Step 4: Attach a hose to the drain valve.
Once your water heater has cooled down, place one end of the hose into a floor drain or, if it will reach, directly outside. Attach the other end onto the drain valve at the bottom of the water heater.
Step 5: Turn on the hot water tap.
To help alleviate pressure, open a hot water tap, like a sink faucet, nearest to your water heater.
Step 6: Open the drain valve.
Once you open this valve, the water will begin to flow out of the tank. Be patient; draining the water heater can take up to 30 minutes depending on how full and dirty the water heater is.
Step 7: Turn the water back on to flush the tank with fresh, clean water.
With the drain valve still open, turn the water back on to eliminate any remaining sediment on the bottom of the tank. Once the water runs clear, turn the water valve off.
Step 8: Refill the tank.
Remove the hose from the drain valve. Turn the water back on and start refilling the tank. Once the tank is full, turn the power to the water heater back on.
Why is Draining Your Water Heater Important?
A water heater needs to be properly drained as part of its regular maintenance. Draining helps ensure the long life of your water heater by flushing out minerals and other debris that may cause it to malfunction, says the DIY Network. If you do not properly maintain your water heater, it may cease to function altogether or result in cold bursts of water when least expected.
How Often Should You Drain Your Water Heater?
Professional recommendations Solar Water Heater Dubai says to drain your water heater once a year, while We suggests draining more frequently depending on how hard the water is in your area. Remember, always check your owner’s manual to see what the manufacturer suggests.
Something as simple as draining your water heater annually may help you and your family enjoy hot water in your home for years to come.
For solar water heater service contact +971 4 252 2966
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Have you discovered that your hot water heater is leaking?
While a small leak may seem to pose no major urgency, its actually important to take care of it right away. If left unattended, it can turn into a serious and costly problem.
Leaks are actually very common in both gas and electric storage-style water heaters, and there are a number of fixes that may take care of them.
In this guide, we will take a look at different sources of leaks in gas and electric water heaters and review repair solutions.
If you are into DIY, and feel comfortable working with the power source of your heater, you will most likely be able to handle many of the repairs yourself.
However, for safety reasons, more complicated repairs or replacement require the help of a licensed professional.
Also, keep in mind that hot water heaters may experience other problems, in addition to leaks, that would call for a different course of action.
Repairing Leaks in a Storage-Style Hot Water HeaterThis guide covers leaks that occur in storage (tank-style) electric and gas hot water heaters.
Before you actually undertake any repairs, make sure to take the following safety measures:
1. On an electric device, the first thing you MUST do is TURN OFF water heater power. Do not open any access panels, if the power is still on.
2. Before checking an electric water heater, check the multimeter on an outlet that you are sure is working.
3. On a gas heater, turn the gas pilot control valve to – pilot
4. For both an electric and a gas heater, be sure to TURN OFF the water supply. This is a very important step, as you may get seriously scalded or even get burned, if hot water comes out, when you are working on a repair.
T& P Relief Valve Leaks
One source of leak you may have discovered is at the T&P relief valve (there may be large amounts of water gushing out of it). This usually happens because the water temperature has become too hot.
Here is what you can do:
1. Check the temperature on the thermostat, and lower it if its too high. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that the temperature should be set at 120 °F (49 °C), which is found to provide an ideal balance between safety and comfort.
2. Make sure that the thermostat fits tight against the tank
3.Check that the thermostat is actually working. If its not, it needs to be replaced.
4. Another reason for a leak in this spot is that the valve itself may be defective and will need to be replaced. Before replacing the valve, you will need to drain your tank.
Leak at the inlet connections
You may discover that the source of the leak in your heater is at the connection of either the cold water inlet pipe or the hot water outlet pipe and the heater itself. If the leak is minor, the first thing to do is simply tighten the connection with a pipe wrench. If this does not solve the problem, it is best to ask for professional help.
Tank itself is leaking from the bottom
If you discover that water is leaking out of the bottom of the tank itself, and you know its old (over 8 years) its likely time to replace the device. Over time, corrosion rusts the walls of the tank, and it starts to leak. Unless you feel confident doing this job and are familiar with electricity, it is best to call a pro and have him install a new hot water tank. Depending on the device, this may cost you anywhere from $800-2,500. A tankless heater may cost even more.
Heater drain valve is leaking
Another common source of leaks in an electric device is the heater drain valve. This may be caused either by a faulty valve (similar to the T&P valve) or by debris build-up inside the valve. The first thing you can do is open the valve and flash out any debris that may be there. If this does not help and the leak persists, you will need to replace the valve itself.
Heating element gasket is leaking (Electric Device)
If the heating element gasket is leaking, a DIYer may have a difficult time locating that this is the source of the leak, because the gasket is covered by insulation and an access panel on the side of the electric heater. Over time, a natural wear and tear process takes place; the gasket is no longer watertight, and therefore needs to be replaced.
Get more info at Solar Water Heater Dubai or call us +971 4 2522966.
While a small leak may seem to pose no major urgency, its actually important to take care of it right away. If left unattended, it can turn into a serious and costly problem.
Leaks are actually very common in both gas and electric storage-style water heaters, and there are a number of fixes that may take care of them.
In this guide, we will take a look at different sources of leaks in gas and electric water heaters and review repair solutions.
If you are into DIY, and feel comfortable working with the power source of your heater, you will most likely be able to handle many of the repairs yourself.
However, for safety reasons, more complicated repairs or replacement require the help of a licensed professional.
Also, keep in mind that hot water heaters may experience other problems, in addition to leaks, that would call for a different course of action.
Repairing Leaks in a Storage-Style Hot Water HeaterThis guide covers leaks that occur in storage (tank-style) electric and gas hot water heaters.
Before you actually undertake any repairs, make sure to take the following safety measures:
1. On an electric device, the first thing you MUST do is TURN OFF water heater power. Do not open any access panels, if the power is still on.
2. Before checking an electric water heater, check the multimeter on an outlet that you are sure is working.
3. On a gas heater, turn the gas pilot control valve to – pilot
4. For both an electric and a gas heater, be sure to TURN OFF the water supply. This is a very important step, as you may get seriously scalded or even get burned, if hot water comes out, when you are working on a repair.
T& P Relief Valve Leaks
One source of leak you may have discovered is at the T&P relief valve (there may be large amounts of water gushing out of it). This usually happens because the water temperature has become too hot.
Here is what you can do:
1. Check the temperature on the thermostat, and lower it if its too high. Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that the temperature should be set at 120 °F (49 °C), which is found to provide an ideal balance between safety and comfort.
2. Make sure that the thermostat fits tight against the tank
3.Check that the thermostat is actually working. If its not, it needs to be replaced.
4. Another reason for a leak in this spot is that the valve itself may be defective and will need to be replaced. Before replacing the valve, you will need to drain your tank.
Leak at the inlet connections
You may discover that the source of the leak in your heater is at the connection of either the cold water inlet pipe or the hot water outlet pipe and the heater itself. If the leak is minor, the first thing to do is simply tighten the connection with a pipe wrench. If this does not solve the problem, it is best to ask for professional help.
Tank itself is leaking from the bottom
If you discover that water is leaking out of the bottom of the tank itself, and you know its old (over 8 years) its likely time to replace the device. Over time, corrosion rusts the walls of the tank, and it starts to leak. Unless you feel confident doing this job and are familiar with electricity, it is best to call a pro and have him install a new hot water tank. Depending on the device, this may cost you anywhere from $800-2,500. A tankless heater may cost even more.
Heater drain valve is leaking
Another common source of leaks in an electric device is the heater drain valve. This may be caused either by a faulty valve (similar to the T&P valve) or by debris build-up inside the valve. The first thing you can do is open the valve and flash out any debris that may be there. If this does not help and the leak persists, you will need to replace the valve itself.
Heating element gasket is leaking (Electric Device)
If the heating element gasket is leaking, a DIYer may have a difficult time locating that this is the source of the leak, because the gasket is covered by insulation and an access panel on the side of the electric heater. Over time, a natural wear and tear process takes place; the gasket is no longer watertight, and therefore needs to be replaced.
Get more info at Solar Water Heater Dubai or call us +971 4 2522966.
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Your solar water heater requires a little regular maintenance to run efficiently, effectively, and last longer. That’s because minerals and other sediment accumulate in water heaters, and this buildup means your water heater has to work harder to do its job. It can even cause the tank to rust. But with a few steps and tasks you can help prevent these problems:
While your owner’s manual can step you through all of these maintenance tasks for your water heater, it is often best to hire a professional technician to handle annual maintenance needs and potential repairs. This will ensure the job is completed fully, safely and properly. And that your water heater runs in tip-top shape all season, and year, long. For more info contact solar water heater dubai or call +971 4 252 2966
- Adjust the thermostat to 120 degrees: At temperatures higher than this, even more minerals settle and form deposits. So keep it in the zone. And when you plan to leave for a few days, change the thermostat on gas water heaters to “vacation” setting, which maintains the pilot light without heating the water.
- Flush the water heater tank: This should be done once or twice each year. Start by turning off the electricity or gas to the heater. Then, close the valve supplying cold water. Connect a hose to the drain valve. Open the hot handle of any faucet and safely drain the tank. Once the tank is empty, close the drain valve and remove the hose. Then, you should open the cold water supply. Next, open the hot water faucets throughout your house one at a time, and wait until water flows out from them before restoring power to the heater.
- Check the “sacrificial” anode rod: This is a long metal rod that attracts corrosive minerals and removes them from the system. Look closely for damage – if it is too corroded, it cannot do its job. Replacing the rod is much cheaper than buying a new water heater! Newer heaters made with a plastic versus metal lining may not have this rod.
- Test the temperature and pressure relief valve: This valve is built to open automatically if pressure or the temperature inside the tank rises to dangerous levels. A buildup of minerals or corrosion could cause this valve to freeze, however. To check the valve, turn off the electricity or gas to the heater, and close the cold water supply valve. Lift the trip lever on the valve, and expect some water to discharge. If the valve does not release some water, that means that it should be replaced.
- Consider a water softener or filtration system: Installing either of these will not only affect the quality of your home’s water, but it will also increase the life of your water heater – making a multi-purpose, multi-benefit investment.
While your owner’s manual can step you through all of these maintenance tasks for your water heater, it is often best to hire a professional technician to handle annual maintenance needs and potential repairs. This will ensure the job is completed fully, safely and properly. And that your water heater runs in tip-top shape all season, and year, long. For more info contact solar water heater dubai or call +971 4 252 2966
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Why is it that every time you take a shower it goes from hot to cold halfway through? Or why your dishes never seem to be as clean as they could be? You don’t realize how much you really need hot water until you’re stuck with a faucet that’s only dispensing cold water (talk about frustrating). Well, we’re here to tell you why these problems keep happening to you — and it all comes down to your water heater.
Your Tank is How Small?
Most water heaters have a rating that is equivalent to the number of gallons of water they heat per hour. For example, you can have a water heater that can heat up to 50 gallons of water per hour. From here you will have to figure out how much water you could be using at any given hour of the day. If you have a large family that requires multiple people to shower, a lot of dishes to wash, and mountains of clothes to clean, you might need a larger water tank.
You’re Using How Much?
If you’re the type of person who completes all of their chores in a specific timeframe each day, you could be using too much water at one time. For those who load up their dishwasher and washing machine at the same time, the chance of using all of your available hot water greatly increases. If multiple people in the house need to shower at a certain time of day, you should hold off on washing dishes and clothing until later in the day. A family that uses a lot of hot water should plan out anything that involves the usage of showers, dishwashers, washing machines, and sinks.
When Was the Last Cleaning?
Like all appliances and systems in your home, Solar water heaters need to be maintained and inspected routinely. As your solar water heater ages, sediment buildup within the tank can happen more frequently and will affect its overall performance and efficiency. This buildup of limescale, magnesium, and calcium will cover your water heater’s burner, thus causing it to heat up less water while also doing so at a slower rate. Make sure your solar water heater is serviced each and every year so you know if it needs to be drained out or not.
If you’re constantly experiencing a loss of hot water throughout the day, it might be time to have your current solar water heater inspected and evaluated. Luckily, your friendly neighbors at Ariston solar water heater dubai are available for service, repair, and installation of both commercial and residential gas, electric, and tankless water heaters. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at +971 4 2522966.
Your Tank is How Small?
Most water heaters have a rating that is equivalent to the number of gallons of water they heat per hour. For example, you can have a water heater that can heat up to 50 gallons of water per hour. From here you will have to figure out how much water you could be using at any given hour of the day. If you have a large family that requires multiple people to shower, a lot of dishes to wash, and mountains of clothes to clean, you might need a larger water tank.
You’re Using How Much?
If you’re the type of person who completes all of their chores in a specific timeframe each day, you could be using too much water at one time. For those who load up their dishwasher and washing machine at the same time, the chance of using all of your available hot water greatly increases. If multiple people in the house need to shower at a certain time of day, you should hold off on washing dishes and clothing until later in the day. A family that uses a lot of hot water should plan out anything that involves the usage of showers, dishwashers, washing machines, and sinks.
When Was the Last Cleaning?
Like all appliances and systems in your home, Solar water heaters need to be maintained and inspected routinely. As your solar water heater ages, sediment buildup within the tank can happen more frequently and will affect its overall performance and efficiency. This buildup of limescale, magnesium, and calcium will cover your water heater’s burner, thus causing it to heat up less water while also doing so at a slower rate. Make sure your solar water heater is serviced each and every year so you know if it needs to be drained out or not.
If you’re constantly experiencing a loss of hot water throughout the day, it might be time to have your current solar water heater inspected and evaluated. Luckily, your friendly neighbors at Ariston solar water heater dubai are available for service, repair, and installation of both commercial and residential gas, electric, and tankless water heaters. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at +971 4 2522966.
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A lot of energy is used in the home to heat water. In fact, about 18 percent of home energy use goes towards heating water. It is possible to reduce energy use and the associated costs, by switching to a home solar water heating system.
Such a system does not depend on fossil fuels and takes energy from the sun to heat stored water. It, therefore, saves money, which is a major advantage of solar heating systems. Energy from the sun doesn’t cost anything, so no charge from electrical utilities is needed.
Advantages of Solar Water Heaters
The advantages go beyond cost savings and the availability of power, which are also realized with solar electric systems. Here are a few unique perks of home solar water heating products that may convince you to upgrade your home.
Types:
Active systems:
These come in two forms. Direct circulation systems pump household water through collectors, which is then delivered to where needed in the house. They have automatic controllers that sense when sunlight is available. However, the systems are ineffective in temperatures below freezing.
Indirect circulation systems heat water by pumping it through a heat-transfer fluid that doesn’t freeze. It’s then sent through collectors and a heat exchanger. Operational in freezing temperature and in multiple heating applications, they’re often more expensive than direct circulation systems.
Passive systems:
Two types are available here as well. An integral collector-storage passive system consists of a storage tank, solar collection unit, and pipes that pump cold water into the collector. It suits a home that needs hot water in the day and evening but also doesn’t work as well in cold outside temperatures.
A thermosyphon system works on the principle of warm water rising and cold water sinking. Warm water in the collector rises into the storage tank, which is a reliable configuration. A downside is the weight of the storage tank, which can be a challenge for contractors working on the roof; the system is a more expensive option as well.
Other advantages include:
Disadvantages of Solar Water Heaters
Maintenance is one disadvantage, although most systems don’t require a high degree of care. However, scaling occurs when there are minerals suspended in domestic water, which build up as calcium deposits in the system. Adding water softeners or mild acidic substances such as vinegar can avoid scaling. It only must be done every three to five years, but this can vary depending on the water quality.
Corrosion is another concern. In open loop hydronic solar systems, oxygen can rust any iron or steel part. The plumbing components are more resistant if they’re made of copper, brass, bronze, stainless steel, plastic or rubber. Storage tanks should be lined with glass or plastic to resist corrosion as well.
Also, active systems can overheat if the size of the storage tank isn’t appropriate for the collector. The general rule is that for each square foot of collector, there should be 1.5 gallons of storage. With that in mind, such a disadvantage can be avoided.
Other disadvantages:
Cost can be another disadvantage. Oftentimes a solar water heating system costs more in terms of purchasing and installation, compared to other types of water heaters. The savings come over the long run because water heating bills can be reduced by as much as 50 to 80 percent. Price hikes, fuel shortages, and other issues with utility-based heat are not a concern either.
Getting the Most Out of a Solar Water Heater
There are many advantages to using a solar hot water systems, and many of the disadvantages can be averted through professional installation. Installers can check the roof to see if it can support the panels. They can also look at shading and other factors that might impact efficiency.
Professional installers can also help you get more out of the system. In addition to a more optimal configuration, they might be able to optimize roof space so water heating elements can be combined with photovoltaic systems. Electricity from these can contribute to additional heating capacity. In fact, combining different types of panels contributes to a high degree of energy efficiency.
Solar water heaters have their advantages and disadvantages, but they are reliable and efficient. Planning and proper installation help homeowners get the most out of them and avoid some of the disadvantages while reaping all the benefits the right system and size can afford.
Like every other big investment, investing in solar thermal requires a bit of research if you want to make a well-informed purchase. Depending on your location, solar water heater dubai will be a very good choice as a supplier in uae. Moreover, you should consider your budget, the size of the house and the type of system that you would like. Get more info at solar water heater maintenance dubai.
Such a system does not depend on fossil fuels and takes energy from the sun to heat stored water. It, therefore, saves money, which is a major advantage of solar heating systems. Energy from the sun doesn’t cost anything, so no charge from electrical utilities is needed.
Advantages of Solar Water Heaters
The advantages go beyond cost savings and the availability of power, which are also realized with solar electric systems. Here are a few unique perks of home solar water heating products that may convince you to upgrade your home.
Types:
Active systems:
These come in two forms. Direct circulation systems pump household water through collectors, which is then delivered to where needed in the house. They have automatic controllers that sense when sunlight is available. However, the systems are ineffective in temperatures below freezing.
Indirect circulation systems heat water by pumping it through a heat-transfer fluid that doesn’t freeze. It’s then sent through collectors and a heat exchanger. Operational in freezing temperature and in multiple heating applications, they’re often more expensive than direct circulation systems.
Passive systems:
Two types are available here as well. An integral collector-storage passive system consists of a storage tank, solar collection unit, and pipes that pump cold water into the collector. It suits a home that needs hot water in the day and evening but also doesn’t work as well in cold outside temperatures.
A thermosyphon system works on the principle of warm water rising and cold water sinking. Warm water in the collector rises into the storage tank, which is a reliable configuration. A downside is the weight of the storage tank, which can be a challenge for contractors working on the roof; the system is a more expensive option as well.
Other advantages include:
- Choice of size: Proper sizing is essential, as homeowners must have enough storage to meet 90 to 100 percent of their hot water needs. Storage volume is also a consideration. A 50- to 60-gallon storage tank is fine for up to three people, an 80-gallon tank for up to four people, and a larger one for as many as six people.
- Less space: Solar thermal panels are usually less space-intensive than photovoltaic panels. Fewer are required to heat water than in an array used to produce sufficient power for a home.
- High efficiency: About 80 percent of the sun’s radiation is turned into the heat energy needed to obtain hot water at home.
- Cost savings: The cost of two or three panels is cheaper than larger domestic installations. You also save on fuel bills for supplying gas heating systems.
- Low maintenance: After installation, little maintenance is required, and a solar water heater can run for up to 20 years.
- Lower carbon footprint: A home can be eco-friendlier, plus tax incentives may be available for using renewable energy.
Disadvantages of Solar Water Heaters
Maintenance is one disadvantage, although most systems don’t require a high degree of care. However, scaling occurs when there are minerals suspended in domestic water, which build up as calcium deposits in the system. Adding water softeners or mild acidic substances such as vinegar can avoid scaling. It only must be done every three to five years, but this can vary depending on the water quality.
Corrosion is another concern. In open loop hydronic solar systems, oxygen can rust any iron or steel part. The plumbing components are more resistant if they’re made of copper, brass, bronze, stainless steel, plastic or rubber. Storage tanks should be lined with glass or plastic to resist corrosion as well.
Also, active systems can overheat if the size of the storage tank isn’t appropriate for the collector. The general rule is that for each square foot of collector, there should be 1.5 gallons of storage. With that in mind, such a disadvantage can be avoided.
Other disadvantages:
- Compared to photovoltaic panels, solar thermal panels only heat water.
- Solar heaters require sufficient roof space to accommodate them.
- Solar water heaters require direct sunlight to function.
- The system does not function on cloudy, rainy, or foggy days.
- Annual maintenance is recommended to check the pump and antifreeze.
- Installation requires the use of a new hot water cylinder.
Cost can be another disadvantage. Oftentimes a solar water heating system costs more in terms of purchasing and installation, compared to other types of water heaters. The savings come over the long run because water heating bills can be reduced by as much as 50 to 80 percent. Price hikes, fuel shortages, and other issues with utility-based heat are not a concern either.
Getting the Most Out of a Solar Water Heater
There are many advantages to using a solar hot water systems, and many of the disadvantages can be averted through professional installation. Installers can check the roof to see if it can support the panels. They can also look at shading and other factors that might impact efficiency.
Professional installers can also help you get more out of the system. In addition to a more optimal configuration, they might be able to optimize roof space so water heating elements can be combined with photovoltaic systems. Electricity from these can contribute to additional heating capacity. In fact, combining different types of panels contributes to a high degree of energy efficiency.
Solar water heaters have their advantages and disadvantages, but they are reliable and efficient. Planning and proper installation help homeowners get the most out of them and avoid some of the disadvantages while reaping all the benefits the right system and size can afford.
Like every other big investment, investing in solar thermal requires a bit of research if you want to make a well-informed purchase. Depending on your location, solar water heater dubai will be a very good choice as a supplier in uae. Moreover, you should consider your budget, the size of the house and the type of system that you would like. Get more info at solar water heater maintenance dubai.
- Published on
Solar water heaters are arguably one of the most important parts of a home plumbing system. Hot water heaters are usually utilized daily. Whether you are taking a shower or washing the dishes, you’ll need hot water at some point. For many it is out of sight, out of mind. This is unsurprising, because it is often located in a basement or unused closet. Just like any fixture or appliance, your water heater needs regular maintenance to ensure its efficiency and longevity.
Professionals recommend maintenance on a schedule. Have the solar water heater flushed at least once every 12 months. If there are six or more people living in the home, it recommended to flush the water heater twice per year (every 6 months). Flushing your water heater helps to remove minerals and other debris that could cause it to malfunction if left unchecked.
Read all labels, warnings, and instructions on your water heater before you get started. And If you have the manual, be sure to follow the instructions. If you have misplaced your manual, it is not uncommon for manufacturers to have instructions on their website.
The first step will be to turn off the water supply. At the top of your solar water heater, you should see a water pipe and water shut off valve. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the supply. Next, you will need to turn off the power. If your water heater is electric, turn off the power at the breaker box. If you have a gas-powered water heater, turn off the gas supply valve that runs into it. You will need to attach a hose that is in good condition to the spigot at the bottom of the water heater. Turn on the spigot to allow the water heater to drain. It is advisable to let the water sit for a short while to cool. It is probably still extremely hot.
After you have allowed some time for the water to cool, look to the top of the tank and you will see a pressure release valve. Open the valve to allow the water to drain. Be patient! This could take up to 30 minutes depending on the condition of your solar water heater. Finally after this is done, it is wise to test that the pressure release valve is functioning properly. Refer to your manual for information on how to do this. If the valve is not functioning properly, you should hire a professional to inspect it for you.
Run some water through the tank while the pressure valve is still open. Make sure all the sediment has drained. Do this until the water runs clear, then turn the water off again. You may now remove the hose from the spigot and close it. Close the pressure release valve, and turn on the water valve to refill the water heater. Once it is full, you may turn the power back on, and voila! Your water heater maintenance is complete! Contact solar water heater maintenance dubai for your one stop shop for all of your hot water systems.
Professionals recommend maintenance on a schedule. Have the solar water heater flushed at least once every 12 months. If there are six or more people living in the home, it recommended to flush the water heater twice per year (every 6 months). Flushing your water heater helps to remove minerals and other debris that could cause it to malfunction if left unchecked.
Read all labels, warnings, and instructions on your water heater before you get started. And If you have the manual, be sure to follow the instructions. If you have misplaced your manual, it is not uncommon for manufacturers to have instructions on their website.
The first step will be to turn off the water supply. At the top of your solar water heater, you should see a water pipe and water shut off valve. Turn the valve clockwise to turn off the supply. Next, you will need to turn off the power. If your water heater is electric, turn off the power at the breaker box. If you have a gas-powered water heater, turn off the gas supply valve that runs into it. You will need to attach a hose that is in good condition to the spigot at the bottom of the water heater. Turn on the spigot to allow the water heater to drain. It is advisable to let the water sit for a short while to cool. It is probably still extremely hot.
After you have allowed some time for the water to cool, look to the top of the tank and you will see a pressure release valve. Open the valve to allow the water to drain. Be patient! This could take up to 30 minutes depending on the condition of your solar water heater. Finally after this is done, it is wise to test that the pressure release valve is functioning properly. Refer to your manual for information on how to do this. If the valve is not functioning properly, you should hire a professional to inspect it for you.
Run some water through the tank while the pressure valve is still open. Make sure all the sediment has drained. Do this until the water runs clear, then turn the water off again. You may now remove the hose from the spigot and close it. Close the pressure release valve, and turn on the water valve to refill the water heater. Once it is full, you may turn the power back on, and voila! Your water heater maintenance is complete! Contact solar water heater maintenance dubai for your one stop shop for all of your hot water systems.
