Are you tired of receiving outrageously high electricity bills every month just because of your hot water needs? Worry no more because this article is going to compare the intricacies of solar water heaters and traditional water heaters. And, we promise to leave you confused and decide for yourself which is the one for you.
Traditional Water Heaters
Traditional heaters work by heating water stored in your tank using electricity or gas. The heater keeps water heated even when it's not in use, which leads to heat loss over time. This means that a traditional heater uses extra energy to keep the water hot all the time, which in turn contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
Solar Water Heaters
On the other hand, solar water heaters use the sun's rays to heat water. Solar energy is free, and the mechanical and electrical components used in solar water heaters make them highly energy-efficient. A solar water heater needs a solar panel installed outside your house with an insulated storage tank. The solar panel heats the water, and the storage tank holds the heated water.
Comparison
Now, let's get to some numbers. A traditional heater can use up to 5,000 watts of electricity per hour compared to a solar heater that uses approximately 400 watts per hour. Detractors of solar water heaters point to the high initial cost of setup, which is significantly higher than that of traditional heaters. While it is true that the initial cost of installing a solar water heater is high, it pays for itself over time with significant energy savings.
Another factor to consider is the element of reliability. Traditional heaters need an electrical or gas supply to function, and they are only effective when the supply is consistent. In contrast, solar heaters rely on solar power, which is an abundant source of energy, so they are less likely to fail.
Lastly, traditional heaters produce greenhouse gases, which contribute to climate change. Climate experts have pointed out that solar water heaters could prevent a considerable percentage of carbon emissions without sacrificing convenience and comfort. The use of solar water heaters is a step in the right direction towards a sustainable future.
Conclusion
Both solar and traditional water heaters have their unique features that could be advantageous for a user based on their needs. Nevertheless, if you want to enjoy the benefits of hot water supplies while simultaneously reducing your carbon footprint and saving significant energy, the solar water heater is the way to go.
References
- U.S. Department of Energy. (2021). Water Heating. Retrieved from https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/water-heating
- N. Raghavendra, & M. Siddhartha Bhatt. (n.d.). Solar Water Heaters: A Review of Systems Research and Design Innovations. Retrieved from https://www.researchgate.net/publication/334808051_Solar_Water_Heaters_A_Review_of_Systems_Research_and_Design_Innovations