Solar hot water systems are becoming more popular each year as people become more environmentally conscious. These systems provide a great way to save money on energy costs, and they are also good for the environment. However, in order to get the most out of your solar hot water system, it’s important to perform regular maintenance.
In this article, we will discuss the best practice and what you need to keep in mind about the service and maintenance of your solar hot water system!
How Often Should I Have My Solar Hot Water System Serviced?
Proper upkeep is the key to any solar hot water system’s longevity, because just like any machine, if you don’t maintain it, it will eventually break down. The good news is that solar hot water systems are relatively low-maintenance, and only require a few simple steps to keep them running smoothly.
Ideally, the anode rod in your solar hot water system should be replaced every 3-5 years. This rod helps protect the tank from corrosion, and over time it will degrade and need to be replaced. Regular visual inspection is the best way to check the condition of your solar hot water system, preventive maintenance is always better than having to repair or replace something down the road.
In terms of maintenance and repair, always leave it to the professionals. Most homeowners are tempted to tinker with their solar hot water system when something goes wrong, but this is not a good idea. In fact it’s illegal unless you’re properly qualified.
These systems are delicate, and unless you are a trained professional, it is best to leave repairs and maintenance to the experts.
If you do attempt to repair your solar hot water system yourself, you could void the warranty – meaning that if something does go wrong, you will have to pay for the repairs out of pocket and shoulder any additional costs.
What You Need to Know About Solar Hot Water System Servicing and Maintenance
As a homeowner, you know that regular servicing and maintenance is important to keep your home in good working order.
The same is true for solar hot water systems. Though they are designed to be durable and require little maintenance, there are still a few things you need to do to keep your system running smoothly.
Here are a few things you need to know about servicing and maintaining your solar hot water system:
1. Pipe inspection and cleaning
If you have a solar hot water system, it is important to have your pipes inspected and cleaned on a regular basis. This will help to ensure that your system is operating efficiently and prevent any potential problems.
A professional plumber can inspect your system and clean the pipes as needed. Check all valves and fittings to make sure they are secure and not leaking. Look for potential damage or wear and tear that could cause problems in the future.
2. Solar panels shading
Your solar panels need to be in full sun to work properly. If they are shaded by trees or other objects, it can affect the performance of your system. Trim any branches or other objects that are shading your panels.
This will help to ensure that your system is getting the full sun it needs to operate efficiently. Shading greatly reduces the amount of sunlight that hits the solar cells, lessening their ability to generate electricity.
3. Check solar water heating controls
It is important to check the solar water heating controls on a regular basis to ensure that they are working properly. The controls regulate the flow of water through the system and help to maintain the correct temperature.
If the controls are not working properly, it can cause your system to overheat or not heat the water sufficiently. This can lead to damage and potentially void your warranty.
4. Corrosion and leaks
Corrosion and leaks are two of the most common problems with solar hot water systems. Poorly constructed and installed solar water heating systems are particularly vulnerable to these issues.
If you notice any corrosion or leaks, it is important to have them repaired as soon as possible. A professional can assess the damage and make the necessary repairs. Corrosion can damage the components of your system and lead to leaks. If left unchecked, these problems can cause your system to fail prematurely.
5. Insulation and plumbing
Plumbing is a key component of any solar water heater system. In order to function properly, the system needs to be able to transport water from the point of collection to the point of use.
This process is facilitated by a network of pipes, valves, and fittings that must be installed by a qualified professional. In addition to ensuring that the plumbing is properly installed, it is also important to ensure that it is regularly inspected and maintained. Otherwise, leaks and other problems can cause expensive damage to your home.
Similarly, insulation is also critical to the proper functioning of a solar water heater system. Insulation helps to keep heat in, which increases the efficiency of the system. It also helps to prevent freezing in cold climates, which can damage both the system and your home. As with plumbing, it is important to ensure that the insulation is properly installed and maintained in order to avoid costly repairs down the road.
6. Preventing Scaling
Scaling is an issue that solar PV water heater users face when they have hard water. This is because calcium and magnesium salts in the water react with the solar PV system, piping, heat exchangers, and plumbing to form a hard buildup. This can be damaging to the solar PV system and decrease its efficiency.
The best way to prevent scaling is to add a water softener to the system. This will help to protect the solar PV system and keep it working properly. However, it is important to note that not all devices are compatible with all water softeners.
Therefore, it is important to consult with a qualified technician before adding a water softener to your solar PV system.
Final Thoughts
Solar hot water systems are a great investment for your home and can save you money on your energy bills, but only if they’re properly serviced and maintained.
Our expert technicians at SolaPlumb are trained to service and maintain all types of solar hot water systems, so call us today to schedule a maintenance checkup.
We’ll keep your system running smoothly and help prevent any costly repairs down the road.
