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Solar Water Heating

A solar water heater reduces the amount of fuel or electricity used to heat water because it gets energy from the sun. It is used to preheat water fed to a conventional water heater that brings the water to the desired final temperature. In favourable weather conditions, all water heating will be provided by the solar system, but during winter and in cloudy conditions some of the heating will come from conventional sources.

A solar water heater has three main components:
v a solar collector converts solar energy into usable heat
 v a controller and pump moves heat from the solar collector to a heat exchanger
v a heat exchanger/tank heats the water which is fed to the existing water heater 


Collectors are mounted on a south-facing roof, or on a ground mount.   East/west mounts are possible but less efficient.  The collectors are connected to a heat exchanger and storage tank. A heat transfer fluid, such as water or glycol, is pumped through the collector where it is heated by the sun. The heated fluid is circulated through a heat exchanger, which transfers heat into the water tank. click here for details on Solar Collectors

When hot water is used, cold water enters the bottom of the solar storage tank. Solar heated water at the top of the storage tank flows into the conventional water heater and then to the taps. If the solar heated water is not hot enough, the conventional heater raises it to the desired temperature.
click here for a detailed description of how it works

Year-round systems are designed to operate through the entire year, in all extremes of weather. These systems are more expensive than seasonal systems, but provide greater energy savings.

Seasonal systems are designed to operate only when outdoor temperatures are above freezing. They must be shut down during winter months. These systems can be less expensive since they do not include freeze protection equipment, but they provide less energy savings. They are ideal for summer homes.

Electricity is needed to operate the control circuitry and the circulation pump. This electricity can be from the household electrical supply or from a solar electric module. For off-grid summer homes, a solar electric module can supply electricity for a well-pump and for the solar hot water system.

Grants and Rebates Available
Federal grant:  $1250
Ontario grant:  $1250
plus Ontario sales tax rebate
(an eco-energy audit is required)

Check these links for advice/information on pre-installation audits

Prices for custom-designed systems, installed, starting from $6,299

In order to obtain the federal grants and rebates available for installing a solar water heater, you must have an energy audit before starting the installation.  Grants and rebates are available on completion of the work and certification by the energy auditor.

Copyright Real Energy Alternatives Limited 2009