Solar water heaters are a great way to reduce your energy bills and heat your water in a way that’s good for the planet. These smart devices use the sun’s energy to warm up your water, which means you’ll pay less for electricity or gas. Your carbon footprint will be smaller too. Whether you live in a cabin far from town or a regular house in the city, solar water heaters can keep your water hot – even when the power goes out. Let’s look at the best solar water heaters to help you pick the right one for your home.
Quick Summary
- The best solar water heaters from Rheem, SunEarth, Duda, Heliodyne, and Apricus can lower your energy bills and give you hot water in an earth-friendly way.
- You can pick between two main types: active systems (which use pumps) and passive systems (which don’t need pumps).
- When choosing a solar water heater, think about your local weather, how much hot water your family uses, which way your roof faces, how well the system works, how much it costs, and how it will connect to your current water heater.
What Is a Solar Water Heater?
A solar water heater uses sunshine to warm up your water. The way it works is pretty simple: a special panel (called a collector) sits on your roof and soaks up the sun’s heat. This heat warms up either water or a special anti-freeze liquid that flows through pipes into a storage tank. The hot liquid then warms up the water in the tank. When you turn on your hot water tap, you get warm water without using electricity or gas. This saves you money and helps protect the environment.
How Do Solar Water Heaters Work?
- Collecting Sunlight: Solar collectors on your roof soak up the sun’s heat.
- Moving the Heat: The heat warms up water or anti-freeze liquid flowing through the collectors.
- Storing Hot Water: The heated liquid flows to a tank where it warms up your household water.
- Backup Heating: Most systems have a backup heater for cloudy days or when you need extra hot water.
Types of Solar Water Heating Systems
There are different types of solar hot water systems, each with its own benefits and uses. Solar water heating systems come in two main types: active and passive. Here is what makes them different:
Active Systems
Active solar water heaters come in two main types: direct and indirect circulation systems.
In direct systems, the water you use in your home flows directly through the solar collectors to be heated. These systems work well in places where it doesn’t get too cold and water doesn’t freeze.
Indirect systems are a bit different—they use a special antifreeze liquid to carry heat to the water, which makes them better for colder places. So, the right choice depends on the weather where you live.
Active systems use electric pumps, valves, and controllers to move the water around, unlike passive systems, which let water move naturally. Direct systems can also work with other heating setups you already have, like a system that uses hot liquid to warm the air in your home.
Passive Systems
Passive solar water heaters are simpler and come in two types: integral collector-storage systems and thermosyphon systems. Unlike active systems, they don’t need extra parts to move the water around.
Compared to regular water heaters, passive solar water heaters can work better. Integral collector-storage systems use sunlight to warm water in insulated boxes, which can work in places where it gets a little cold. Thermosyphon systems, on the other hand, move water using natural flow.
Even though passive systems are simple, they still work well, last a long time, and don’t cost too much. They also last longer and are easier to take care of because they have fewer parts. That’s why many homeowners like passive systems better.
Benefits of Solar Water Heaters
Using solar water heaters offers several benefits:
- Cost Savings: Solar water heaters can save you a lot on energy bills because they use sunlight to heat water instead of just electricity or gas. This can cut your energy bills by 50-80%. If you add a full solar energy system, with solar panels, with solar panels, it can power your whole home—not just your hot water, but all your appliances too. This makes it a more complete and cost-effective option.
- Good for the Environment: Unlike regular water heaters, solar water heaters are eco-friendly and lower your carbon footprint by using renewable energy from sunlight. This helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and supports efforts to slow climate change.
- Low Maintenance: Solar water heaters are reliable and need little upkeep, so you don’t have to worry about fixing them often. The best solar water heaters even work well in cold climates.
- Energy Independence: Solar water heaters provide continuous hot water, even during power outages.
Top 5 Solar Water Heaters
Compare Top Solar Water Heaters
The best solar water heater for your needs may vary depending on factors such as where you live, what technology is available, and what you prefer. However, here are our picks of five well-regarded solar water heater brands that are known for how well they work, their high quality, their reliability, and their efficiency.
Rheem Solar Water Heaters: Industry Leaders
Founded in the 1920s, Rheem is a well-known American brand that makes heating, cooling, and water heating products. Rheem is famous for its high-quality water heaters, which come in tank, tankless, and solar-compatible options. This has made Rheem a popular choice for many people.
The company offers different types of solar water heaters, like active closed-loop systems, active open-loop systems, and passive systems, so they can work in various climates and meet different household needs.
Rheem Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy efficiency: Rheem solar water heaters use the power of the sun, a renewable energy source, to heat water, greatly reducing energy use and utility bills. | High initial cost: The upfront cost of buying and installing a Rheem solar water heater can be quite high, making it a big investment for homeowners. |
| Environmental benefits: By using solar energy, these systems contribute to a lower carbon footprint and promote sustainability. | Dependence on sunlight: Solar water heaters rely on direct sunlight to work well, which can be a problem in areas with frequent cloud cover or seasonal changes in sunlight. |
| Long-term cost savings: While the initial investment in a solar water heater may be higher, the long-term savings on energy costs can make up for the upfront expense over time. | Space requirements: Solar water heaters typically need a suitable roof or ground area for the installation of solar collectors, which may not be possible for some homes or properties. In comparison, solar panels for electricity also need significant space, but they can be more flexible in placement. |
| Durable construction: Rheem solar water heaters are known for their strong and long-lasting construction, ensuring reliable performance for many years. | Limited hot water capacity: In some cases, especially for larger households, the hot water capacity provided by a solar water heater may not be enough, requiring extra heating or a larger system. |
SunEarth: Innovative Solutions
SunEarth is a top company in the solar water heating industry, known for making innovative and durable products. Founded in 1978, SunEarth provides both active and passive systems designed for different climates and hot water needs.
SunEarth Technology and Construction
A big advantage of SunEarth solar water heaters is their strong build. The company uses durable materials and advanced manufacturing methods to make sure the heaters last a long time and perform well. Homeowners and contractors like that these systems are easy to install, which saves both time and money.
SunEarth Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Energy efficiency: SunEarth’s solar water heaters feature an innovative dual-tank design that maximizes energy efficiency by separating the hot water storage from the solar collection process. | High cost: SunEarth’s commitment to quality components and advanced technology comes with a higher upfront cost compared to some conventional water heating systems. |
| Long-term cost savings: While the initial investment in a solar water heater may be higher, the long-term savings on energy costs can offset the upfront expense over time, providing a favorable return on investment. | Periodic maintenance: While generally low maintenance, SunEarth systems do require periodic checks and cleaning to maintain efficiency, which can be an inconvenience for some users. |
| Durability: SunEarth solar water heaters are built with high-quality materials, providing reliable performance for many years. | Scale buildup risk: In areas with hard water or high mineral content, SunEarth’s systems may be more likely to get mineral buildup, which can reduce efficiency and require more frequent maintenance or component replacements. |
| Versatility: SunEarth offers a wide range of system sizes and configurations, allowing homeowners and businesses to tailor the solar water heating solution to their specific hot water demands. | |
| Easy installation: With a focus on user-friendly installation, SunEarth’s systems are designed for easy integration into existing plumbing setups. |
Duda
Duda’s solar water heaters use the power of the sun to provide an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to meet hot water needs. Although they are compact, these heaters are powerful, turning sunlight into hot water efficiently for both homes and businesses. The sleek, low-profile design looks great on any roof, combining style with functionality. In addition, Duda’s systems also work well with existing plumbing, making it easy to switch to renewable energy.
Duda Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced evacuated tube technology: Duda uses highly efficient evacuated tube solar collectors, which can capture and hold heat more effectively than traditional flat-plate collectors, enhancing the system’s overall performance. | Limited compatibility with certain roof types: These solar water heaters may not be suitable for all roof types, particularly those with complex or unusual designs, limiting their installation options in some cases. |
| Integration with existing water heaters: Many of Duda’s solar water heaters are designed to integrate seamlessly with conventional water heaters, providing a hybrid solution that maximizes energy savings. | Potential for overheating: In regions with exceptionally high solar radiation, Duda’s highly efficient evacuated tube collectors can sometimes lead to overheating, requiring additional safety measures or adjustments. |
| Special control systems: Duda has developed special control systems that optimize the operation of their solar water heaters, ensuring efficient energy transfer and minimizing heat loss. | Specialized installation requirements: While Duda’s systems are designed for easy installation, their advanced technology may require specialized training or expertise, potentially increasing installation costs in some regions. |
| Good-looking designs: Duda’s solar water heaters are known for their sleek and modern designs, blending seamlessly with various architectural styles and improving the visual appeal of residential and commercial properties. | Limited availability in some markets: These solar water heaters may have limited availability or distribution channels in certain geographic regions, making it challenging for some customers to access their products. |
| Monitoring and analytics: Duda offers advanced monitoring and analytics tools, allowing users to track the system’s performance, energy savings, and environmental impact. | Relatively higher maintenance needs: Compared to some competitors, Duda’s solar water heaters may require more frequent maintenance or servicing to ensure optimal performance, potentially increasing the long-term cost of ownership. |
Heliodyne: Trusted Since 1976
Since 1976, Heliodyne has been a major name in the solar water heating market, offering advanced solutions for both homes and businesses. Heliodyne is known for its high-performance flat plate collectors, which are designed to be highly energy-efficient and durable. These systems are built to handle different weather conditions, providing a steady supply of hot water all year.
Heliodyne Technology Benefits
The closed-loop design of Heliodyne solar water heaters protects against freezing and prevents mineral buildup in the water, so they work well in both colder and sunnier areas.
Heliodyne systems are also easy to install, making them a popular choice for both contractors and homeowners. By using solar power, Heliodyne water heaters offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to traditional water heating.
Heliodyne Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Advanced evacuated tube technology: Similar to Duda solar water heaters, Heliodyne products use advanced evacuated tube technology, which minimizes heat loss and maximizes energy efficiency, even in cloudy conditions. | High cost: Heliodyne’s solar water heaters are efficient but may initially cost more than conventional systems. However, long-term energy savings and incentives can offset this investment. |
| Eco-friendly manufacturing: Heliodyne’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its products, as it uses eco-friendly manufacturing processes. | Professional installation: Proper installation is key to getting the best performance from Heliodyne’s solar water heaters. This usually needs certified professionals, which can increase the total cost. |
| Durability: With a focus on durability, Heliodyne’s solar water heaters are built to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide long-lasting performance and a reliable return on investment. | Dependence on sunlight: In areas with limited sunlight, like places with frequent clouds or shorter days, Heliodyne’s solar water heaters might not perform as well. While their advanced technology helps reduce this impact, homeowners in these areas may want to consider backup heating options. |
| Flexibility: Heliodyne offers a wide range of system configurations to accommodate various roof sizes and orientations and ensure optimal energy capture regardless of the installation site. |
Apricus
Apricus is a trusted brand in the solar thermal industry, offering solar water heater options for homes, businesses, and even industrial use. Like Duda, Apricus uses evacuated tube collectors, which are very efficient at capturing and holding heat, even in cold climates. Their systems are made from high-quality materials, built to last, and can handle different weather conditions. Moreover, Apricus combines advanced technology with eco-friendly solutions, making their solar water heaters both effective and sustainable.
Apricus Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| High efficiency: Apricus solar water heaters use advanced evacuated tube technology for optimal solar energy absorption and minimal heat loss, ensuring impressive thermal efficiency. | Cost: Apricus systems have a higher initial investment compared to conventional water heaters. This may discourage cost-conscious consumers, despite the long-term savings. |
| Durability: Built with strong materials, these systems are extremely durable and long-lasting. | Availability: Apricus has limited availability and distribution channels in certain regions, making sourcing and installation more challenging. |
| Versatility: The company offers systems tailored for both residential and commercial applications, catering to diverse requirements. | New to the market: Apricus is a relatively new brand in the solar water heating market, lacking the extensive track record of more established competitors. |
| Stylish integration: Apricus prioritizes good-looking designs that blend smoothly into various architectural styles, enhancing curb appeal. | Integration limitations: Limited options for integrated energy monitoring and smart home integration compared to some rival offerings. |
Average Cost of the Best Solar Water Heaters
Equipment Cost Comparison
Table 1: Average Cost Range by Brand
| Brand | Low-End Cost | Mid-Range Cost | High-End Cost |
| Rheem | $2,500 | $4,000 | $6,500 |
| SunEarth | $2,800 | $4,500 | $7,000 |
| Duda | $2,300 | $3,800 | $6,000 |
| Heliodyne | $3,000 | $5,000 | $8,000 |
| Apricus | $3,200 | $5,500 | $8,500 |
Note: These prices are just for the equipment. Installation costs extra.
Cost by Collector Size
Table 2: Average Cost per Square Foot of Collector Area
| Brand | Cost per sq ft |
| Rheem | $90 – $120 |
| SunEarth | $100 – $130 |
| Duda | $85 – $110 |
| Heliodyne | $110 – $150 |
| Apricus | $120 – $160 |
Installation Cost Factors
Table 3: Estimated Installation Costs
| System Size | Average Installation Cost |
| Small (1-2 people) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| Medium (3-4 people) | $2,000 – $3,500 |
| Large (5+ people) | $3,000 – $5,000 |
Brand-Specific Cost Considerations
Rheem:
- Often offers package deals that include installation
- Provides a 6-year limited warranty on parts
- Some models eligible for a 30% federal tax credit
SunEarth:
- Known for durable, long-lasting systems
- Offers a 10-year warranty on collectors
- Higher initial cost often offset by longer lifespan
Duda:
- Generally the most affordable option
- Offers a 5-year warranty on parts
- May have higher maintenance costs over time
Heliodyne:
- Premium brand with high-efficiency systems
- Offers a 10-year warranty on collectors and 5 years on parts
- Higher initial cost but potentially greater energy savings
Apricus:
- Specializes in evacuated tube collectors, which are usually more expensive
- Offers a 15-year warranty on tubes and 5 years on other components
- May work better in colder climates, justifying the higher cost
How to Choose the Right Solar Water Heater
Before buying a solar water heater for your home, consider the following key factors to ensure you get the most out of your investment:
Climate and Sunlight Exposure
The amount of sunlight your home gets throughout the year affects the type and size of solar water heater you need. If you live in a warm, sunny area, a passive system might be enough. But if you have cooler temperatures or frequent cloudy days, an active system with a larger collector area might be better.
Household Hot Water Demand
The size of your family and how much hot water you use will determine the storage and capacity needs of your solar water heater. Bigger families or homes with higher hot water use may need a system with a larger storage tank or several collectors to meet their needs.
Roof Orientation and Slope
The direction and angle of your roof impact how well your solar water heater performs. Ideally, the collectors should face south (in the northern hemisphere) and be angled to get maximum sunlight exposure all year.
System Efficiency and Performance
Choosing a system with high efficiency and performance ratings helps you save money and ensures enough hot water. Look for features like low heat loss, good insulation, collector efficiency, and strong system design to get the best performance and energy savings. Different solar hot water systems have different efficiency levels, so it’s important to pick one that fits your climate and needs.
Cost and Payback Period
Comparing the upfront cost of the solar water heater system, including installation, to the long-term energy savings is essential for making a smart financial choice. Before buying, calculate the payback period to see if the investment in solar energy makes sense based on local energy prices, any available incentives, and financing options.
Available Space and Roof Load
The type and size of the system will determine how much roof or property space you need for the solar collectors and storage tank. Make sure your roof is strong enough to hold the weight of the solar water heater, as it can add stress to the roof.
Integration with Existing Systems
If you already have a conventional water heater, you may be able to connect a solar water heater to it, which can cut down on installation costs. Some solar water heaters are designed to work with your current water heater, providing extra heating and reducing your dependence on traditional energy sources. For more comprehensive energy solutions, consider how these systems can work with home energy monitoring systems.
Wrapping Up
Solar water heaters are a smart choice for homeowners who want to save money on energy bills while also helping the environment. Although they cost more upfront than traditional water heaters, the long-term savings and benefits to the planet make them worth considering. By picking the right system for your climate, household needs, and budget, you can enjoy hot water powered by the sun for many years to come.
Looking to further enhance your home’s energy efficiency? Check out our guides on energy-efficient appliances and easy ways to save energy at home.
Frequently Asked Questions about Solar Water Heaters
What makes a solar water heating system “best”?
The best solar water heating system depends on things like where you live, your local weather, how big your family is, and how much you want to spend. Each home and family has different needs, so what works best for one might not be the best for another. The key is to look at your specific situation and choose a system that matches your needs, climate, and budget.
How can I select the right system for my home?
To choose the best solar water heating system for your needs, look at factors like where you live, how much roof space you have and which way it faces, how much hot water your family uses, your budget, and which type of system you prefer (active or passive, evacuated tube or flat plate). It’s also good to consider well-known brands with a history of making reliable products.
Understanding payback periods
The payback period is typically 2 to 10 years, depending on system cost, energy prices, sunlight, and available incentives. Though the upfront cost is higher, lower energy bills and tax credits make it a smart long-term investment. To better understand your potential savings, consider conducting a home energy audit.
Maintenance requirements and system longevity
Solar water heaters need regular upkeep like cleaning the collectors, checking fluid levels, and inspecting for leaks or worn parts. Annual professional inspections are recommended. With proper care, systems can last 15 to 30 years—longer than most traditional water heaters.
If you’re considering alternatives to traditional tank water heaters, you might also want to explore whether tankless water heaters could be right for your home.