Solar hot water is a renewable energy source that can be used to heat a home.
It does not produce any pollution, so it’s better for the environment.
Solar panels are easy to install and provide an endless supply of clean energy for heating your home with no monthly bills or expensive installation costs – just pay upfront for the equipment and you’re set!
Solar panels have been in use since the 1970s, but only recently has their popularity increased due to modern innovations in solar panel design.
These newer designs allow them to work well even in places where there isn’t much sun throughout the year.
“In fact, some solar panel models boast up-time rates as high as 95%.”
This means that if a solar panel is producing at least 4 hours of full power output during the day every day, it’s working at its maximum capacity.
The drawback to solar panels is that they can develop leaks and cracks in the tubing, or even get damaged by extreme weather conditions.
There are many other reasons why a solar water heater may need repair and these repairs may not be covered by a warranty.
Here are a few of the more common issues with solar hot water installations:
Cracked or Damaged Panels
One of the most common issues with solar water heater installations is cracked or damaged solar panels.
The most typical cause of this damage is actually due to hail storms, but it can also be caused by high winds and other natural disasters such as heavy ice storms.
If a panel sustains too much damage from weathering, then it may need to be replaced entirely.
Cracked or Damaged Roof Mounts
Cracking or damage to the mounts that hold panels in place can also cause issues.
This may be due to general wear and tear over time, but it might also be caused by shifting foundations if your home was not properly installed on a solid foundation in the first place.
The sound of moving panels is an indication that there could be an issue with the mounts holding your panels in place.
Leaking Pipes and Tubes
Pipes and tubes that carry water to and from solar panels can sometimes develop leaks or even split completely.
This usually occurs around joints where the pipe meets another section of pipe.
The most common causes of this are below-grade installations being subject to flooding, heat, freezing temperatures, or debris build up within the pipes.
Cracked piping is also a possibility, but this is very rare in the case of solar water heaters.
Heat Pump Defects
Heat pump output may be reduced over time by a number of different factors, which could lead to issues with your solar water heating system.
Some heat pumps can develop lower output due to dust build up in the compressor or in the condenser coils.
Others may have lower heat efficiency if they are located in too shaded an area or need service for other issues.
It’s important to have a heat pump that is operating at maximum efficiency in order to get the most benefit from any solar water heating system that has been installed.
Loose Wiring
Loose wiring can also be a problem with solar water heaters.
Connection points may need to be checked regularly and wires tightened if they are loose.
This is especially true for wire connections after panels have been cleaned or repaired.
A loose wire connection will not provide the same level of protection as a tight one, and can also cause increased resistance.
This increased resistance can lead to higher heat loss through the panel and less water heating efficiency for your system.
Solar panels are an eco-friendly way to heat your home without paying hefty monthly bills.
However, even with today’s modern solar panel technology, issues may still arise that require repairs or even replacement of individual panels.
While not all solar water heating systems will experience problems, it is important to become familiar with the signs and symptoms common to most so you can begin taking proactive measures as soon as these problems arise.
The best way to avoid these common issues is to stay up-to-date on the latest research, news, and repair information for your system.
Solar water heating systems are almost always covered by warranties, but these may not apply to damage due to natural disasters.
Staying up-to-date on the latest system news is a great way to learn how to avoid common issues that can arise with solar water heater installations.
