If you’re looking into eco-friendly upgrades for your home, a solar water heater should be high on the list. This efficient, convenient, and cost-effective option is more popular than ever and provides reliable hot water for the entire home. To help you decide if this system is right for you, here are answers to some of the most common questions about solar water heating.

Solar Water FAQ

Why Should I Switch to a Solar Water Heater?

According to the United States Geological Survey, the average person in the U.S. uses between 80 and 100 gallons of water per day, much of which is hot water that fills bathtubs and runs appliances. While heating that water can add significantly to your home’s energy costs, you can do the same job for free using Hawaii’s abundant sunlight.

How Does It Work?

There are two energy collection methods used by solar water heaters: direct and indirect. Direct solar water heaters expose the water directly to sunlight before redirecting it into your home for use. Indirect water heaters use solar power to warm a heat-transfer fluid, which is pumped through your water tank. These systems can be active and moving water around using a pump, or passive.

What Happens on Cloudy Days?

When the weather is cool and clouds block out the sun, your solar water heater will rely on a backup heating element to warm your water. This means that your water heater will still sometimes use electricity—but not nearly as much as a traditional water heater.

How Can I Choose the Right Solar Water Heater for My Home?

The right solar water heater for your home depends on the number of people using the system, the type of roof it’s installed on, and local building code requirements. To choose the right water heater for you, talk to a plumber about your needs to receive a list of recommendations. You can also look up product reviews online to learn more about each option.

For help with choosing and installing a solar water heater, get in touch with Diamond Head Plumbing in Honolulu, HI. Serving Oahu for over 40 years, this family-operated business offers everything from basic bathroom plumbing maintenance to a full range of plumbing contracting services. Call them at (808) 734-4344 or send a message online to arrange a visit. You can also find them on Facebook.