8 points that pave the path to buying a solar water heater
Jan 04, 2017 Home Appliances
Text: Priya Ayra
Photograph: iStock.com
Photograph: iStock.com
There’s nothing like a hot shower to either get the day going or unwind after a hectic schedule. There’s enough evidence out there that a warm bath is actually quite good for you. But the price you pay literally and figuratively when you use traditional electricity for this luxury can put a dampener on things. So why not let solar-powered water heaters straighten this mess for you? Solar energy expert Sanyam Indurkhya tells us how.
- Solar water heaters are available in different capacities and at various price points. For instance, a 100-litre water heater can cost anything between 10,000 to 12,000 INR; while that with a capacity of 500 litres can set you back by 45,000 to 50,000 INR. A 100-litre heater, by the way, is adequate for a family to 2 to 3 people.
- Always consider reputed brands such as Sudarshan, V-Guard, Sunriser, etc. And look, without fail, for approval by Ministry of Non Renewable Energy (MNRE).
- A heater with five-year warranty will normally have a pretty long life, and will reduce your electricity bill by 800 to 900 INR per month.
- On bright, sunny days, the water will be warmed up within two hours of sunrise. For most of India, this means that you can avail of hot water in this fashion for about 300 days of a year. During monsoons and winters, however, either there will be a delayed deployment of hot water, or you may want to switch to a traditional electrical connection (all solar heaters are fitted with an induction coil or rods, which instantly heat up water in the ‘old’ way).
- A solar heater is usually placed in southern side of the terrace, as we get maximum light and heat in that direction.
- If the southern side of your terrace is open, the heater will work more efficiently. However, if there are shady portions, the heater will take more time to do its job.
- Solar heaters are cost-efficient and usually do not need repairs for the first five years. Even if the tube breaks, it can be repaired for a nominal charge -- just 150 to 200 INR or so.
- In case the heater is taking too long to warm the water or isn’t working properly, you can use a special solution to clean it internally.
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Sanyam Indurkhya
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