Factors to Consider in Building Your Own Solar Water Heater
Installing solar panels at the roof of the house is one of the most common way used to effectively capture the sun’s heat and efficiently maximize it for energy needs. Moreover, it is only one of the many ways to use, for energy, the rays of the sun. In fact, building solar water heaters, among many other solar products, is one capable way to exploit solar energy.
Solar water heaters are available in the market to those who would want to readily use them at home. But building your own can be possible. Here are the essential things people should consider in building their own solar water heaters.
Choosing a Location
Location is an important thing to consider in building a solar water heater at the house. With this, one must ensure that the storage or the heating tank is placed in an area where it receives maximum amount of sunlight. The best location would enable the tank to be exposed to the sun longer and the heating system to produce more hot water.
Performing Solar Site Survey
It is essential to measure the amount of sunlight in the location where one plans to install the solar water heater. As sunlight is the most important factor, it matters a lot in the functionality of the system. By simply using a sunlight calculator, one can identify and measure the amount of sunlight available in a specific area for a 12-hour period. An area that reads “full sunlight” is the best place for the storage tank. Determining the size of the water heater would also make a more effective solar site survey.
Studying Local Regulations
Examining the local regulations should not be left out. Before constructing the solar water heater, it is very necessary to consult one’s respective local authority to make sure that no regulations are violated. There are places that have strict laws when it comes to building and plumbing codes. So, anyone who plans to install a solar water heater at home is advised to call their local building inspector’s office to check specific regulations in their community.
Choosing Between Buying and Building
To those who are determined to build their own solar water heating systems at home, they can avail of various plans and instructions online. However, they should also consider if the possible result of their own construction would be as effective as or more than the cheaper options readily available in the market. Lack of knowledge and tools could contribute to the durability and longevity of the end result.
Selecting the Size
The size of your water heating system matters. You wouldn’t want a solar storage tank that would be too small and insufficient to cater your heating needs at home. Except when you don’t have a large space to install your water heating system. Choose the size that would save you more money from utility bills and at the same time lessen your carbon footprint.
Building one’s own solar water heater at home is rather appealing. But before having getting yourself a go, assess what you can do to deliver quality results.
