How to Make a Solar Water Heater
Appliances that are powered by the sun help to save energy, and in turn reduce your utility bills. If you wish to make your own solar-powered water heater, you can do so on your own and without the help of a professional.
Things You Will Need:
- Old water heater tank
- Black paint
- Paintbrush
- Plywood box
- Fiberglass material
- Piping
- Piping insulation
- Obtain a water heater tank that is large enough to fit the needs for your home. Generally speaking, most homes use 30 gallons of water per individual. You may locate a water pump from an appliance repair shop, or you may opt for one that has been returned to an appliance store. You must also prepare the water heater by painting it black. Black attracts heat, which makes it easier to consume solar energy for your appliance.
- Choose the location for your solar-powered water heater. The ideal location should be on the same level as the ground, and on the side of your home that faces south. This allows for a large amount of sun exposure, which is vital when speaking in terms of solar power.
- Position the water heater so that it sits in an upright position in order to heat your water to higher temperatures. In order to do this, use a box that is insulated with fiberglass. This material helps prevent energy from escaping.
- Attach all of the necessary piping and direct it to your regular water heater so that you have a backup source of hot water. The other set of piping will be attached to the plumbing source so you are able to use your solar-heated water directly.
- Insulate the exposed pipes to protect any damage that may be caused during adverse weather conditions.