Factors to consider when buying a solar heater include the pressure systems, Lifeline and warranty, Water source, the types of solar heater, and the tanks used.
Conversations around clean energy have dominated the headlines for all good reasons. Solar energy has been rightly involved in this conversation due to its environmentallyfriendlynature. Stakeholderswithin the energy sector have intensified calls to move towards the solar energy route as the reliable and preferred energy frontier. Africa is naturally blessed with a lot of suns, this is an advantage to us if used correctly
The Government of Kenya is at the forefront of implementing policies to enhance the use of solar power. The Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority [EPRA] recently issued a directive targeting all commercial n residential buildings requiring the use of solar heating equipment where the water consumption is over 100 liters.With this solar how often to replace water heaters have been selling quickly. Thisleaves an open window for all rogue dealers to take advantage of the market needs
WHY PREFER SOLAR HEATERS
They are cheap as they reduce the bill by, more than half and have low maintenance costs
No harmful emissions to the environment
Unlimited energy
FACTORS TO CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING SOLAR HEATERS
When thinking of buying one, there are a variety of factors to look out for such as
The source of water
Water is categorized as hard water and soft water, the difference between these is the minerals found in the.Thesetwo usedifferent heating systems i.e. direct and indirectsystems The direct system is used for heating soft water sources where the water is directly heated by the heater
The indirect system is used for hard water. The water is first heated by a liquid that heats the solar heater.Hd water contains minerals that cause corrosion and blockages to the collection tubes
The Solar heater type and its work
This is the biggest determinant of solar heater prices in Kenya. They are broadly grouped into two categories of solar collectors
ETC [Evacuated Tube Collectors]
They have a higher heat retention capacity
Suitable for both climates
Made of glass thus being delicate
Used for both loop systems
FPC [Flat plate collectors]
They are more durable
Made of metal hence easy to handle and install
They are bulky and cost a lot more
Best used in tropical climates
The metal lowers its heat retention capacity
Used for both loop systems
The tank used
The tank should be able to withstand and retain heat for at least 60 hours. A good tank should be thick, enamel-coated made of cast iron. The tank should have more measures observed to cater for food cooked with the preheated water. The enamel coating helps prevent rusting
The lifespan and warranty
This is vital information that should not be overlooked when purchasing a solar heater.It is your right as a client to get a product that guarantees you your value for money. This is important for both clients and big organizations.The lifespan and warranty are to be matched, this also has a big impact on the solar water heater prices in Kenya.
Water pressure system
Clients should always consider the water pressure within the houses.This is required to get an equilibriumbetween the solar heating system and the supply. There is the pressurized and non-pressurizedsystem, when chosen wrongly the heater will not work
CONCLUSION
Technology keeps evolving and with this comes the need to continuously use solar heaters in work and home setups which need the sun to be charged. Understanding which one to use for your home and office is all dependent on the above factors and more. Getting the correct supplier for your solar heater is key in ensuring it performs its work as intended.Most dealers will offer free installations and any maintenance within the given warranty period. A popular brand to consider is Seven star solar water heater.
