Affordable Solar & Wind

Solar Water Heating Systems

Solar hot water heating systems are a great way to effectively conserve energy and reduce your energy bill.

Contrary to popular belief, solar water heating is not a new technology. Solar water heating systems have been used commercially for over a century now, with the first commercial water heater (the Climax Solar-Water Heater) going on sale in 1891 in the United States. By the year 1900, over 1600 houses in California were equipped with this solar water heater.

Due to its effectiveness and low cost, the solar water heating gained popularity until, by 1941, more than half the population of Florida was getting its hot water through solar water heaters!

Solar water heating only lost its popularity as a result of lowered electricity rates, and an aggressive campaign by Florida Power and Light to increase electrical consumption. This was done by offering electric water heaters at bargain prices. Thus Florida's solar water heating was brought to halt.

The United States is not the only country with a solar water heating history. There are many other countries where solar water heating was used in the past and has since fallen out of use - but not all of them. In fact, currently more than ten million Japanese households heat their water using solar water heating systems. This is definite proof that it is a workable technology.

Important Facts about Solar Hot Water Heating Systems

• Solar water heating can be used in any climate. Sound unbelievable? Check it out on the U.S. Department of Energy website. They say so as well.
• The fuel used to run a solar water heater is sunshine. And, at the time of this writing, sunshine is free - no tax has been added yet.
• A solar hot water heater can reduce your water heating bill by fifty to eighty percent. But with energy prices going up, the amount of savings (as compared to normal prices) will soon be even higher.
• Aside from reducing your energy bill right now, a solar water heating system will protect you from future energy price increases. Your heating will no longer rely on fossil fuels for electricity.
• When building a new home, or when refinancing, the economic aspect of this becomes even more interesting.

You can, for instance, include the cost of a solar water heater with a new thirty-year mortgage package. This would usually add up to about $13.00 -$20.00 a month. Federal income tax deductions for mortgage interest would reduce the payment for the solar water heater by about $3.00 -$5.00 per month.

If your fuel savings with a solar water heating system is $15.00 or more per month (which it likely will be) you will have reduced your monthly heating bill right then and there.

• Solar water heating will significantly reduce your carbon footprint, and reduce the demand for fossil fuels which pollute the environment.
• Solar heaters can be installed in combination with backup systems. In fact, you could install a solar water heater next to your existing system and make it possible switch to conventional water heating whenever necessary. This way you are guaranteed always to have hot water.

Types of Solar Hot Water Heating Systems

There are two types of solar water heating systems, active solar water heating systems and passive solar water heating systems. They both work on the same principles.

The only difference is that active systems have a pump or other mechanical means of moving the water through the Solar Heating Systems, and passive systems rely on nature's principles: warm water rises to the top, and cold water sinks to the bottom. Therefore, with a passive solar water heating system, the water storage tank must always be positioned above the solar water heater collector.

Active Solar Hot Water Heating

There are two main designs of active water heating systems. Which one is best for you depends on the climate you live in.

There is what's called an "indirect circulation system" which uses a non-freezing heat-transfer fluid to transfer heat from the collector to a heat exchanger (a device used to transfer heat from the heat transfer fluid to the water in your storage tank). This is good for colder climates.

There is also the direct circulation system, where water is simply passed through solar heat collector and then routed to the water storage tank for use. This system works fine in milder climates.

Passive Solar Hot Water Heating

Passive solar water heating systems are usually cheaper than "active solar water heating systems," as they do not need controls or pumps to circulate the water.

But generally, they are not as effective as the active systems. If you live in a warm climate, a passive water heating system might be all you need. Passive water heating systems are also known for being very reliable.

Essentially, solar water heating systems consist of a water storage tank and its solar collectors. The solar collectors are used to collect solar energy which heats water, and the tanks store the heated water. That's all there is to it.

About the Author

To learn the important facts to consider when getting a solar hot water heater, and where to get good quality solar hot water heaters, visit Solar Hot Water.

Completed solar powered water pump

Outdoor Solar Solutions ZSPUMP3 Replacement Pump for solar pump kit ZSK0600 $82.01 Replacement pumps are available for all OSS solar pump kits. These pumps all come with dry run protection. This new technology senses when water is low and turns the pump off automatically preventing damage to your pump.

Garden Sun Light APP003 2 Watt Solar Powered Water Pump $691.2 2 Watt Solar Powered Water PumpOur unique 2 watt Solar Powered Water Fountain Pump Kit is the perfect match for the average DoItYourselfer easy to operate and install in just about any water feature you want to create. The perfect replacement to conventional electric water pump normally found in small waterfalls and garden water features. Are you worried that you new or existing water feature doesn_Tt get enough direct sunlight and moving it is not an option well don_Tt worry you can place the solar panel in a sunny area up to 16 feet away. The Solar Panel will recharge the batteries to operate the water pump for or for several hours after dusk. Everything you need to create a wonderful water feature in your home garden is included in this kit. Four different heights can be selected and three different spray nozzles allow you to create a stunning water feature from just about anything you choose. Have an existing water feature that uses a rubber hose to pump the water to the top of the feature no worries attached the hose to the pumps outlet and you now have a solar powered water pump. 2 Watt Solar Powered Water Pump. . Sun Powered. No Wiring. Powered by the sun. Fast amp; easy install. Energy electrical saving. Recharged by solar panel under sunlight. Corrosion resistant. CE certified. This solar powered water pump is designed for fountains ponds or other outdoor use. has the ability to work during the night. With the battery pack attached a full charge during the day can provide up to an additional 4 hours of operation. This solar powered pump also comes with a manual on/off switch. This uses 1.2V NiCd 1000mAh x 5 AA rechargeable batteries. Solar Panel

Outdoor Solar Solutions ZSPUMP1 Replacement Pump for pump kit ZSK045 ZSK0100 $41.85 Replacement pumps are available for all OSS solar pump kits. These pumps all come with dry run protection. This new technology senses when water is low and turns the pump off automatically preventing damage to your pump.

Outdoor Solar Solutions ZSPUMP2 Replacement Pump for pump kit ZSK0200 ZSK0500 $55.35 Replacement pumps are available for all OSS solar pump kits. These pumps all come with dry run protection. This new technology senses when water is low and turns the pump off automatically preventing damage to your pump.

Garden Sun Light AP004S 2 Watt Solar Powered Water Pump with battery LED $76.88 2 Watt Solar Powered Water Pump with LEDOur unique 2 watt Solar Powered Water Fountain Pump Kit is the perfect match for the average DoItYourselfer easy to operate and install in just about any water feature you want to create. The perfect replacement to conventional electric water pump normally found in small waterfalls and garden water features. Are you worried that you new or existing water feature does not get enough direct sunlight and moving it is not an option well don t worry you can place the solar panel in a sunny area up to 16 feet away. Everything you need to create a wonderful water feature in your home garden is included in this kit. Four different heights can be selected and three different spray nozzles allow you to create a stunning water feature from just about anything you choose. Have an existing water feature that uses a rubber hose to pump the water to the top of the feature no worries attached the hose to the pumps outlet and you now have a solar powered water pump. 2 Watt Solar Powered Water Pump. . Sun Powered. No Wiring. Powered by the sun. Fast amp; easy install. Energy electrical saving. Recharged by solar panel under sunlight. Corrosion resistant. CE certified. This solar powered water pump is designed for fountains ponds or other outdoor use. has the ability to work during the day and night. This solar powered pump also comes with a manual on/off switch. Solar Panel Dimension: 7X5. Operation Voltage 6V. Solar Module 1.7W. Water Lift Max 0.5M. With the battery pack attached a full charge during the day can provide up to an additional 3 hours of operation. This uses 1.2V NiCd 10

Bronze Centrifugal Pumps Water Pump, Centrifugal, Pedestal $327.94 Bronze Centrifugal Pumps Water Pump, Centrifugal, Pedestal Oberdorfer Pumps Bronze Centrifugal Pumps - WATER PUMP, CENTRIFUGAL, PEDESTAL

Outdoor Solar Solutions ZSK039 Solar Pump Kit Max head 20 inches Max. flow 39GPH $71.08 This 40 GPH pump ships with a small 5 x5 solar panel that can provide plenty of power to push your water to this pumps max 21 inch head height. Includes a 5 head nozzle kit for many different looks also a 16ft extension cord and garden stake will allow you to securely place your solar panel in the optimal position.

Unique Arts UAM85924B Large Solar Pump $170.48 Easy to use the Large Solar Pump is perfect for larger water features and ponds. Solar feature uses the suns solar energy and replaces electric pumps cords and electrical installations and allows placement wherever you please. Powerful and compact this pump features a separate 8 x 11 1/2 solar panel that is staked into the ground. The 16 ft cord allows the panel to be placed in direct sunlight and the angled head easily adjusts to receive optimum sunlight. 130 GPH (gallonperhour output) with up to a 48 in spray. 18V DC Brushless pump means no rotating brush to wear out eliminating the need for replacement parts. Easy installation complete and ready to go. A/C Jack and Adapter is included to continue using the pump in rainy days. Three fountain nozzles are also included.

Sunny 380 Solar Water Fountain $99.95 The Sunny 380?pond pump is powered by solar energy?using a seperate?solar panel (supplied).? This pond pump will help you create your own little piece of relaxation with your existing pond. The Sunjet

DIY Solar Projects By Creative Publishing International (COR) $28.56 Provides homeowners with doityourself information on building and installing a wide variety of solar projects for use in the home. Projects include water heaters, lights, heat pumps, charging stations and supplemental electricity Author: Smith, Eric Subtitle: How to Put the Sun to Work in Your Home Publication Date: 2011/10/01 Number of Pages: 160 Binding Type: Paperback Language: English Depth: 0.50 Width: 8.00 Height: 10.50

BurCam Pumps 150155 1 in. Pitless adaptors Bronze $47.58 Portable 12v utility pump. Works with a car battery or solar panel. Supplies water to hunting and fishing camps. Empties water beds aquariums rooftops or puddles. Water flow of up to 350 us gph. Color: Bronze.

Natures Foundry NFZSK702 14 in Solar Pump Kit $66.25 Replace old electrical pumps or custom create your own solar fountain or water feature. Nature s Foundry Quick Start Technology permits your fountain to function while others are just warming up. Simply put you and your early birds get moving water quicker. One year pump and five year panel warranty.Measures H x W x L: 3 x 4 x 5.5. The pump for item # NFZSK702 will pump about a max of 1/2 a gallon of water per minute

Smart Solar Sunjet 150 Mini Water Pump $39.99 Powered by the sun! Create your own water feature with the solar powered Sunjet 150 Mini Water Pump by Smart Solar. This low voltage water pump with filter is powered by a supplied separate solar panel that operates in direct sunlight and has 4 different fountain heads. It includes float for deeper water features and has absolutely no operating costs. The 16' cable to the solar panel provides a water flow capacity of 33 gallons per hour and a maximum fountain height up to 10".Smart Solar offers a broad range of solar products, in traditional, classic, and contemporary designs, utilizing natural materials such as terracotta, ceramic, copper, slate, stainless steel, and tin sourced from around the world.Smart Solar develops products powered by renewable energy for the home and garden. Solar powered products do not diminish our planet's precious energy resources yet they provide incalculable pleasure to people around the world.

Sunsolar Energy Technologies SOLARWL Solar Water Lilly $42.84 The Sunsolar Water Lilly is a solar powered light for your swimming pool or garden. It is 100 solar powered and 100 waterproof. Changes color and comes with a pole for alternate placement in your garden pathway or anywhere you like it.

Nature Power 40400 Solar Home and RV Power Kit with 40 Watt Solar Panel $1559.99 A complete solar kit that provides renewable energy to charge 12V batteries without the use of noisy expensive gas generators. This kit is great for emergencies or power outages and for those looking to use solar save money be environmentally friendly. Will provide power to watch movies power your laptop keep your lights ON and more It will keep essentials running in emergencies and anywhere power is needed. With Do It Yourself installation this kit is fast and easy to setup. Ideal applications: 13 LCD televisions DVD players phones lights radios computers fans electric razors water pumps and more Up to 1800 watts of power is delivered across 4 AC outlets powered by a 60 amp hour rechargeable battery. Includes a 40W solar panel with 35 feet of cable an internal transfer switch 5 Amp AC Charger and 8 Amp Solar Charger. The entire unit is modular and solar panels or auxiliary batteries can be added to charge faster and run your appliances longer. CSA C22.2 no 107.3 and UL 1778 approved. length: 19.75. height: 16.75. width: 19

Natures Foundry NFZSKACDC1 2AC/DC Adapter for Solar Pumps $22.48 AC/DC Adapter for Solar Pumps. Dimensions: 2 H x 2 W x 2 L. Country of Origin China. Satisfaction ensured. With true enhanced performance. Ensures you have the latest options with today s products. Durability and functionality exceeds any other brands.

Alsatian Woman Pumps Water from the Town Well $39.99 Gervais Courtellemont Alsatian Woman Pumps Water from the Town Well - Photographic Print

Solar Shower Pvc Solar Shower 2-1/2 Gallon $11.94 Solar Shower Pvc Solar Shower 2-1/2 Gallon The ever popular way to heat water by solar power. Just hang it in the rigging and let the sun shine on it, and then enjoy the pleasures of a shower. Two sizes, 2.5 and 5 gallons These Solar Showers come with the thermometer on the back.

Solar Shower Pvc Solar Shower 5 Gallon $14.94 Solar Shower Pvc Solar Shower 5 Gallon The ever popular way to heat water by solar power. Just hang it in the rigging and let the sun shine on it, and then enjoy the pleasures of a shower. Two sizes, 2.5 and 5 gallons These Solar Showers come with the thermometer on the back.

Solar Domestic Water Heating By Laughton, Chris $99.94 Solar Domestic Water Heating is a comprehensive introduction to all aspects of solar domestic water heating systems. As fossil fuel prices continue to rise and awareness of climate change grows, interest in domestic solar water heating is expanding. Solar water heating technology is the most environmentallyfriendly way to heat water. This fullyillustrated and easytofollow guide shows how domestic solar water heating systems work, the different types of systems, types of collectors, both flat plate and evacuated tube, types of storage tanks and other accessories. It also shows how systems are installed and explains how solar water heating can be integrated into existing water heating systems. Numerous examples from around the world have been included. The ideal guide for plumbers, heating engineers, builders and architects, housing and property developers, home owners and DIY enthusiasts, and anyone who needs a clear introduction to solar water heating technology. Publishers description. Author: Laughton, Chris Series Title: Earthscan Expert Subtitle: The Earthscan Expert Handbook for Planning, Design and Installation Publication Date: 2010/06/30 Number of Pages: 192 Binding Type: Hardcover Language: English Depth: 0.75 Width: 7.75 Height: 9.75

Tetra Usa ATS26579 Pond Cylinder Prefilter for Water Garden Pumps $29.59 Tetra Pond Cylinder Prefilter for Water Garden Pumps. Large Prefilter for all TetraPond Water Garden Pumps including 325 GPH Pump.

Nature Power 40401 Solar Home and RV Power Kit Auxiliary Battery $779.99 A complete solar kit that provides renewable energy to charge 12V batteries without the use of noisy expensive gas generators. This kit is great for emergencies or power outages and for those looking to use solar save money be environmentally friendly. Will provide power to watch movies power your laptop keep your lights ON and more It will keep essentials running in emergencies and anywhere power is needed. With Do It Yourself installation this kit is fast and easy to setup. Ideal applications: 13 LCD televisions DVD players phones lights radios computers fans electric razors water pumps and more Up to 1800 watts of power is delivered across 4 AC outlets powered by a 60 amp hour rechargeable battery. Works with any Nature Power brand solar panel up to 130 watts and includes 35 feet of cable an internal transfer switch 5 Amp AC Charger and 8 Amp Solar Charger. The entire unit is modular and solar panels or auxiliary batteries can be added to charge faster and run your appliances longer. CSA C22.2 no 107.3 and UL 1778 approved. length: 19.75. height: 16.75. width: 19

Smart Solar 21372R01 Solar Koi Fountain $107.37 Solar powered blue glazed ceramic koi water feature. Water flows constantly through the koi\ s mouth and into the bowl. Constantly recycles the same water. Operates in direct sunlight. Powered by a separate solar panel (supplied). Multi fixing panel holder. Low voltage water pump with filter

Smart Solar Ceramic Frog Solar Fountain Green $63.99 Ribbit ribbit! This Ceramic Frog Solar Fountain is a green, glazed-ceramic solar-powered water fountain that will add enchantment to any setting. The water flows continually through the charming frog and into the leafy bowl, creating a relaxing atmosphere in your garden, patio, or balcony. The low-voltage water pump and filter are powered by the included solar panel, which operates in direct sunlight. The remote solar panel with 10' cable is the perfect size for a table top or balcony. With no wires to run, just setup and enjoy! Smart Solar offers a broad range of solar products, in traditional, classic, and contemporary designs, utilizing natural materials such as terracotta, ceramic, copper, slate, stainless steel, and tin sourced from around the world.Smart Solar develops products powered by renewable energy for the home and garden. Solar powered products do not diminish our planet's precious energy resources yet they provide incalculable pleasure to people around the world.

Alpine GIL396SLR Solar Water Fountain $239.31 Alpine corporation believes in the free enterprise system. We shall constantly treat our customers employees shareholders suppliers and the community with honesty dignity fairness and respect. We will conduct our business with the highest ethical standards. Our Mission is to continually exceed our customers increasing expectations. Customer satisfaction is the source of employee shareholder supplier and community benefits. We will exceed customer expectations through continuous improvement in quality service productivity and time compression. New for 2010 Solar powered 2tier water fountain with lighter weight durable fiberglass contruction that allows easy placement and movement. Withstands the harshest temperatures for years of enjoyment. Includes electric submersible pump tubing. Size: 14 L x 14 W x 25 H.

Solar Water Heating $18.71 This book is in New - Excellent condition

Smart Solar 23470R01 Ceramic Solar Fish Solar Fountain Glazed Blue $145.8 Smart Solar is a leading specialist in solar powered garden products providing high quality innovative solar powered items for the garden. We believe strongly in the environmental benefits of solar whereby all our solar products use renewable energy from the sun to generate power. Once purchased they require no operating costs and minimal maintenance. Best of all they are quick and easy to install and portable allowing for placement around the garden to suit your individual needs today and tomorrow. Install this ceramic blue glazed fish fountain and relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of your garden or patio. This product constantly recycles the same water and operates in direct sunlight. It comes with separate solar panel. The low voltage water pump will ensure silence. You can place the solar panel up to 10 feet away from fountain. There is no wiring or operating costs. Simply install and enjoy