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The sun is the most dependable energy source available, providing a consistent and effective solution to home energy. With its reliability, many homeowners are now using solar panels heat their water supplies. These homeowners enjoy the benefits of using solar power to harnesses the sun’s energy, while reducing both heating costs and environmental harm. Thermal solar panels transfer the sun’s radiant energy to a home’s stored water supply.

There are two kinds of solar panel systems that provide households with ample hot water supplies. Requiring little maintenance, these solar thermal systems can last for up to twenty years. In order to make the best decision about which kind of system to install, it is important to understand the two types of systems, direct and indirect solar thermal systems, as well as how the regional weather affects the heating process. With direct solar systems, the sun directly heats the water, while, with indirect systems, pipes transfer the heat to a water supply. Considering regional temperatures is necessary when choosing the best system for one’s home.

In areas where the temperature rarely drops below the freezing point, direct solar water heating systems work best. This kind of system uses an insulated water tank that contains collector pipes. The sun’s energy directly heats the water in the collector pipes. This water moves into the storage tank, eventually heating all the water. This tank of hot water is connected to the home’s water system, supplying it with the necessary hot water. In areas with seasonable climates, direct systems prove most effective and efficient. Little maintenance is required for direct thermal water systems. However in homes with hard water, the pipes may need to be cleaned of any mineral deposits that build up within the pipes.

For homes in regions where the temperature drops below the freezing point, an indirect system is the best solution for solar heated hot water. Indirect solar works through a system of heat pipes installed from the outside to the inside of the tank. These pipes are filled with an antifreeze solution that can resist even the lowest temperatures. The outer heat pipes absorb the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water within the tank. Because it relies on the sun’s radiant energy, there is no fear of cold temperatures or precipitation affecting a household’s hot water supply.

Whether a direct or indirect solar thermal system is used to heat homes’ water supplies, homeowners realize the many benefits of solar power. The sun is the most sustainable energy source, offering clean and reliable power. With low maintenance and high performance, solar thermal hot water systems save homeowners money, while saving the Earth’s valuable resources.