Solar Water Heating Frequently Asked Questions
Are Evacuated Tubes better than Flat Plate?
Tubes are slightly more efficient particularly U tube types. Flat plate are less likely to be damaged by hail or stones.
Can I use my existing tank?
Tank size depends on the number of persons to be supplied hot water. 1=135litre, 2=180 litre, 3= 225, 4=250, 3=300. If your tank has that capacity that will be ok. If not a smaller collector will need to be used and the installation will not meet your daily needs.
With solar the daily hot water requirement needs to be collected between sun rise and sunset.
Does the pump need much power?
Around 15 to 25 watts when it is running which is only when the sun has heated the collector.
Are we approved EECA instalers?
Yes
What happens if the power is turned off?
Usually nothing. The pump does not work. The controller will restart when the power is turned on.
Can I have solar water heating when my roof faces east or west?
No. not unless we can put the collector some other place facing north.
Can I have solar if my roof is half shaded?
No as it is difficult to collect enough hot water to repay the installation.
What maintenance is needed?
Wash the collector once per year, check the pipe insulation, check the pump is operating, change the glycol if your system has it , not many do, check the plumbing for leaks, if the system is closed loop check it still has pressure on the pressur gauge, check the roof fixings.
