Properly maintaining your solar water heater can effectively extend its life and keep it operating efficiently. Here are some common maintenance suggestions to keep your solar water heater well taken care of in daily use:

1. Clean the collector regularly

Reason: The collector is the core part of the solar water heater that absorbs solar energy. If dust, leaves, bird droppings, and other debris accumulate on the surface of the collector, it will affect its heat absorption efficiency.

Maintenance method: Clean the surface of the collector every few months, especially in dusty or complex environment areas. Wipe gently with water and a soft cloth or sponge, avoid using corrosive cleaners or hard objects to scrape to prevent damage.

2. Prevent scale build-up

Reason: Scale build-up inside pipes and tanks can affect water flow and heat transfer, reduce the efficiency of the water heater, and may even clog pipes. Especially in areas with hard water, scale forms more quickly.

Maintenance: Regularly check and clean the scale in pipes, tanks, and collectors. Descalers or water softeners can be used to reduce scale formation. If the scale is serious, it is recommended to hire a professional for deep cleaning.

3. Check and clean the filter

Reason: Some solar water heaters are fitted with a filter at the water inlet to prevent impurities from entering the system. If the filter is clogged, it may result in reduced water flow and affect the hot water supply.

Maintenance: Check the filter regularly (usually every 3-6 months) and clean out the accumulated impurities. If the filter is aged or damaged, replace it promptly.

4. Check water level and sealing of water tanks

Reason: The amount of water in the tank directly affects the water heater's ability to supply water. If the tank leaks or the water level is insufficient, the operation of the water heater will be affected. In addition, the insulation performance of the tank is crucial to the storage of hot water.

Maintenance Methods:

Ensure that the water level in the tank is sufficient and check that the automatic refill system and float valve are working properly.

Regularly check the sealing of the water tank to ensure there are no leaks.

Check that the external insulation of the tank is in good condition, especially in winter when damage to the insulation may cause the tank to freeze.

5. Check and clean the pipes

Cause: Air, sediment, or scale may accumulate in the pipes, resulting in reduced or erratic water flow and affecting the hot water supply.

Maintenance: Check the pipes regularly for blockages, remove air (air blockage phenomenon), and clean the internal scale build-up promptly. If the pipes are broken or aged, replace them promptly.

6. Air Venting Maintenance

Reason: Non-pressurised solar water heaters are susceptible to air blockage due to air entering the pipeline, resulting in poor water flow and affecting the water output.

Maintenance method: Install or check the automatic exhaust valve to ensure that air can be discharged smoothly. Regular manual air venting is also necessary, especially when the system is first started up or after a long period of non-use.

7. Check the electric auxiliary heater

CAUSE: Many solar water heaters are equipped with electric heaters to cope with low solar radiation conditions in winter or rainy weather. If the electric heater fails, the system may not provide hot water.

Maintenance: Test the working condition of the electric heater periodically to check for damage, short circuits, or other problems. Ensure that the electric heater and thermostat are working properly to prevent overheating of the water.

8. Anti-Freezing Measures

Cause: In cold winter, water in the collector or pipes may freeze and cause damage to the system, especially if no antifreeze is installed.

Maintenance: In cold areas, make sure that antifreeze is used in the system or drain the water from the collector before a cold snap. An automatic drainage system can also be installed to prevent freezing in winter.

9. Check valves and joints regularly

Reason: Various types of valves and pipe joints of the water heater may deteriorate, loosen, or leak after a long period of use, affecting the normal operation of the system.

Maintenance method: Regularly check and ensure that all water inlet, outlet, exhaust, and safety valves are in good condition. If deterioration or damage is found, replace or repair them promptly.

10. Monitor system operation

Reason: The performance of solar water heaters is affected by weather, season, and system conditions. Regular monitoring of the system's heating effect, water temperature, and water volume can detect problems in time.

Maintenance method: Regularly check the water temperature and water output of the water heater through a thermometer or the monitoring device that comes with the system. If you find a decrease in heating efficiency, a decrease in water output, or a low water temperature, promptly troubleshoot the problem.

Summary:

To properly maintain your solar water heater and ensure that it works efficiently for a long period, you can take the following key steps:

Clean the surface of the collector regularly to ensure efficient heat absorption.

Prevent scale formation by cleaning the inside of pipes and tanks and using a descaler if necessary.

Check the sealing of valves, pipes, and tanks to prevent leaks and air blockages.

Install anti-freeze devices or use antifreeze, especially in cold areas.

Regularly check electric auxiliary heaters to ensure they are functioning properly.

With these maintenance measures, your solar water heater can continue to operate efficiently and last longer.