Solar Water Heater

The tank itself is a little different - there is a pump to circulate the water when the sun is out. There is only 1 element for heating when the sun does not play well. I experimented with leaving the electric switch off, and putting it on a timer - and for 90% of the time you have hot water. But the goal is not to suffer through the occasional cold shower - it is to augment our power usage - so the switch cycles off only during the night hours.

• 1. Small PV panel - runs the circulation pump when sun is out

  2. Freeze plugs relieve pressure if needed

  3. Valves to isolate the panel from the heater - can also drain the panel

  4. Tank, heavily insulated - 80 gallon tank - only 1 4500W element

  5. Small DC pump

A series of tubes under the glass - very simple. The small solar panel runs an in-line pump. Since it only comes on when the sun is out - pretty much guaranteed that the water being circulated is hot. Even in the dead of Florida winter (yes it gets cold here) - the water coming out of the panel can easily burn you (I have experience!!). There are freeze plugs (2) at the top to relieve pressure in case of extreme cold.