Solar Water Heater Maintenance


7 Easy Steps for Solar Water Heater Maintenance

Abundant sunshine makes Dubai perfect for using solar energy. Among the most popular solar applications, solar water heater systems are eco-friendly and cost-effective options. However, like all appliances, they need regular solar water heater maintenance to work at their best.

Maintaining a solar powered water heater is practically simple. On the other hand, you need to keep an eye on key components. Here’s the guide you need on essential maintenance tips to keep your system up and running smoothly.

Solar Water Heater Maintenance

1. Clean the Solar Panels Regularly

The solar panels or collectors absorb sunlight and stay exposed to the environment. In Dubai, high temperatures and dust storms can cause dirt and dust buildup on the panels. Not to mention, this can affect the solar water heater’s efficiency by blocking sunlight.

So, use a microfibre cloth or soft brush to wipe away the dust from the solar panels. For tougher dirt and more effective solar water heater maintenance, you can use a mild detergent and water. Make sure to rinse it off thoroughly.

How often should you clean the solar panels, by the way? Solar water heater repair experts recommend cleaning the panels at least once a year. However, you may need to clean them more often if you reside in dusty areas.

As a safety tip, use a stable ladder when accessing the solar panels. Otherwise, hire a professional for the cleaning of your solar powered water heater.

2. Watch Out for Leaks

Leaks can waste water, damage the unit, and reduce efficiency. Over the years, pipes or connections may suffer from corrosion and develop leaks. Hence, look for signs of leaks such as damp areas or water stains around the pipes or joints.

In addition, inspect the seams of the water heater tank for any signs of leaking. Even a tiny leak can deteriorate the performance. In case you discover any leaks, contact a solar water heater repair professional before things escalate.

3. Inspect for Corrosion

Undoubtedly, corrosion can damage the solar water heater’s parts and reduce its life expectancy. With Dubai’s hot and salty air, corrosion is quite common, especially around metal components.

So, start by checking for any rust or discoloured water. Needless to say, rust can weaken metal components. Indeed, they can even develop a leak. 

Most panels are made of corrosion-resistant materials. However, you must check themfor signs of rust, especially around the mounting brackets or edges. Call a professional if you spot corrosion. The expert will assess the damage and recommend the best course of action.

4. Maintain Proper Insulation

Good insulation is a part of the solar water heater maintenance regime. In Dubai, where temperatures can fluctuate, poor insulation might lead to energy loss. Thus, your water heater system becomes inefficient.

Look for any wear or damage to the insulation around the tank. Heat will escape if the insulation is compromised. Additionally, you must check pipes carrying hot water. Replace the insulation if you find it missing or damaged.

By the way, proper insulation keeps your energy bills low.

5. Monitor the Temperature and Pressure Valve

The temperature and pressure valve is a safety feature for solar powered water heaters. This specific part prevents the system from overheating or encountering too much pressure. So, it should function correctly and you need to ensure that.

For general testing, lift the valve and see if water flows. If water flows then it indicates that the valve is good. Otherwise, you might replace the valve. Besides, look out for water leakage around the valve. This might indicate a problem with the system’s pressure or the valve itself.

6. Flush Out the Tank

Sediment can build up inside the storage tank of your heater, especially in areas with ahrd water. Now, sediment buildup can negatively impact the heater’s performance and trigger corrosion. So, you should include flushing the tank in the solar water heater maintenance routine.

Here are the general guidelines you can follow:

  • Shut down the water supply and power to your heater.
  • Next, attach a hose to the drain valve and direct the water to the outside.
  • After that, open up the valve and let it fill with water. This should flush away the sediment.
  • Finally, you can close the valve and restore the water supply and power.

Make sure you do this at least once a year.

7. Pay Attention to the Controller and Thermostat

Does your solar powered water heater use a digital controller? Ensure that the controller displays everything correctly. Often, a malfunctioning controller indicate something is wrong with the system.

In addition, don’t forget to check the thermostat settings. Well, you might have to recalibrate or replace the thermostat if the temperature doesn’t reach the desired level.

Avail of Professional Inspection

Not always, DIY solar water heater maintenance routines can make the cut. It’s wise to opt for a professional solar water heater repair and maintenance expert to identify the potential issues. Also, they can devise the right fix before issues turn into costly problems.

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