Solar water heaters have become a popular choice to traditional electric water heaters in many parts of the world, especially in sunny regions. They offer a clean way to heat water for home use and can help lower our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. However, like any other technology, there are some concerns associated with solar water heater installations that need to be thoroughly evaluated before making a decision.
One major risk is the risk of inaccurate installation. If the solar water heaters are not installed according to manufacturer guidelines, they can be less efficient and may not perform as expected. This can lead to energy loss, repair costs, and even potential safety hazards. Therefore, it is essential to hire experienced and trained professionals for installation to ensure that the solar water heaters are installed properly.
Another risk associated with solar water heater installations is the potential damage to the roof. Solar water heaters require attaching the solar collector to the roof, which can exert excessive weight and loading on the roof. Therefore, owners need to evaluate the structural integrity of their roof to ensure that it can support the added load of the solar water heater. Any damage to the roof or foundation of the house may lead to expensive repairs.
Furthermore, concerns need to be given to the health impacts of solar water heaters, such as waterborne illnesses. Legionnaires' disease can occur when water sits statically in a stagnant system, allowing bacteria to multiply. Therefore, the efficiency of the equipment is critical and routine check-ups must be performed to prevent this situation.
Additionally, there's possible exposure to expensive initial investments and financial rewards may come into play. To many residents or household homeowners, installing solar water heaters in their home involves a expense not easily covered from an short-term income return on the account holder. However, governments in most locations could provide monetary rewards to installing local homeowners. Residents should find out if such incentives exist to some of their areas before making the purchasing decision.
Lastly, owners need to understand that solar water heaters may need to be adjusted according to environmental conditions as it dramatically affects how they operate. Ongoing research needs to be implemented to reflect best solar water heaters operational practices that align with environmental information.