Passive Solar Water Heater

Heating water for domestic use is a major source of emissions of heat-trapping gases, which are the root cause of climate change and sea level rise. A solar water heater uses energy from the sun rather than natural gas to heat water. This system can be especially appealing for those who don’t have the budget or conditions to install solar panels.

Scale & Design

This system can be retrofitted and is cost-effective at both commercial and residential scales (perhaps more-so at residential scales, given the increased need for heated water in residential buildings). It is possible to DIY for the experienced DIY-er. There are two types of solar water heaters, passive and active. Active solar water heaters are typically more efficient than passive heaters and better suited for larger hot water needs. Note: if you have solar panels, it is more energy and cost-efficient to max out on photovoltaic panels and heat pump water heater. Solar water heaters have more maintenance costs associated with them long-term.