Solar Water heaters are an essential part of any household.
They provide a constant and reliable stream of hot water while being cost-effective and eco-friendly.
They work by collecting solar energy using tubes or flat panels positioned on the roof for optimum performance.
Having a basic idea of how solar water heaters work is useful in the event one breaks down.
Like any other appliance, they suffer from wear and tear over time and sometimes components might fail.
Regular maintenance and upkeep are the best ways to ensure your solar water heater will keep on chugging for years.
Some signs that your solar water heater has stopped working are…
- Slow or irregular heating
- The reduced or erratic flow of water
- Unclean water
- Leakage
In the instance that your heater fails, follow these steps to help you troubleshoot what might have happened.
Improper heating
In case your solar water heater is not heating water to the temperature you are used to, especially on a hot day.
- Check if the solar panels are positioned correctly on the roof.
- Check if the glazing is damaged, dirty, or covered in shade.
- Clean the solar panels with a rag to remove any dirt present.
- Check to ensure all the wiring is still connected.
Leakage
Any fluid leaking from your solar water heater is a major issue that can arise.
It is usually caused by broken glazing or a damaged pipe, but it can also be caused by the thermal expansion of metals during summer.
In the event of a leak…
- Check to see if any pipe fittings are loose
- Ensure the temperature or pressure valve is working properly
- Adjust the thermostat to reduce the pressure on the tank
After following these steps, immediately schedule a maintenance call to get a certified technician to look at your solar water heater.
Unusual Noises
Usually, all types of water heaters make some amount of noise.
But unusual noises can be an indicator of an issue with your solar water heater.
The reason can be anything from sediment buildup to a valve failure.
In case you turn on your heater and start hearing weird noises…
- Make sure there is no air trapped in the system
- Clean the impellers of any debris or deposit
- Lubricate the bearings with the suggested lubricant
As always, these are just preliminary measures and if the problem persists, you must schedule a call with a certified technician.
The solar water heater is a relatively new technology, but it is here to stay.
Whether it is used in a domestic or commercial environment, it is an energy-efficient and ecological alternative to other water heaters.
When the system fails, it is best to get it fixed on time and inexpensively.
If you know how a solar water heater works, some basic troubleshooting can go a long way before the technician arrives.
Be sure to regularly schedule servicing on your solar water heater to ensure that you enjoy hot water all year round!
