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Solar hot water heaters can provide homeowners with a major cost-savings on their water and energy bills. That’s because, as the name implies, solar hot water heaters don’t rely on gas or electricity to raise the temperature of your drinking water or the water you use to take showers and wash clothes.

Instead, solar hot water heaters work by attaching a rain collector to your roof, along with a water tank that accompanies it on the roof or is located on the ground, depending on the type of system you have. After water is collected, it is then heated up while it travels inside of copper pipes that are connected to the tank.

When the sun is up, it heats the water inside the pipes and causes it to rise—this process is known as “thermo-siphoning.” After the water has risen, it is stored and kept hot for you to use in your home. The cold water that makes it to the tank is then filtered back through to the collector, where it is then heated up, and the process continues. It’s almost like having an instant hot water heater right on your roof.

Hot Water HeaterIt’s important to note that the hot water that is gathered in your collector must be heated to 140 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure any bacteria is killed. However, to prevent you from scalding yourself during use, many solar hot water heaters include tempering valves that allow you to adjust the temperature by regulating the amount of cold water that is mixed in with the hot water before it is dispensed. This allows you to adjust the water to the exact temperature you desire.

Research gathered in Australia, where solar water heaters are used regularly, has shown that this process often uses just a quarter of the energy that traditional water heaters require. That can save you hundreds, maybe even thousands, of dollars on your utilities bill over the course of a year.

If you would like to learn more about benefits of solar hot water heaters or need help with a water line repair, septic tank installation, or any other residential or commercial plumbing problem, you can contact the team at Emery Plumbing in Hilo, HI, today at (808) 960-8828 to schedule a consultation.

Emery Plumbing is a leading commercial plumbing expert in the Hilo, HI area. The company has been servicing the water and plumbing needs for residents of the Big Island since 2002. Their expert knowledge, affordable pricing, and professional service make them the top choice for many around the area, and they can help you with any plumbing service you need today. Visit them online to learn about all of the services they provide. 

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