Solar Hot Water Heaters Solar energy can meet part or all of a home's domestic hot water needs. Geographic location, system design, collector orientation, and collector size will determine how much energy can be provided for domestic hot water heating. Solar water heaters come in a variety of configurations. Each differs in design, cost, performance, and level of complexity. A solar water heating system usually consists of a hot water storage tank, a solar collector that absorbs solar energy, a back-up energy source, and a pump and controls. There are two main types of systems: passive and forced circulation. Within each type, there are several configurations. A passive water heater consists of a water tank integrated into or located above a solar collector. A forced circulation system requires a pump to move water from the storage tank to the collector. Most solar water heaters in the United States are the forced circulation type. There are several types of solar collectors. Most consist of a flat copper plate, painted black, that has water tubes attached to the absorber plate. As solar energy falls on the copper plate and is absorbed, the energy is transferred to water flowing in the tubes. The absorber plate is mounted in a casing that has a clear covering and insulation to protect the absorber plate from heat loss. Solar water heaters can be used for domestic hot water, pool heating and space heating needs.
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