Combining a Solar Water Heater and an Electric Geyser for Optimal Hot Water Supply
When dealing with hot water needs, homeowners often turn to both solar water heaters and electric geysers to ensure they have a reliable and efficient supply of hot water. Many opt to combine these systems to harness the benefits of both technologies while minimizing costs and waste. This article will explore two methods to integrate a 50-liter electric geyser with a 100-liter solar water heater, ensuring that you can enjoy the benefits of solar heating supplemented by electric backup when necessary.
Method 1: Automated Series Connection
This is a straightforward way to connect a solar water heater and an electric geyser. In this setup, the outlet of the solar water heater is connected to the inlet of the electric geyser. The outlet of the geyser then leads to the bathroom tap.
Connect the outlet pipe line of the solar water heater to the inlet of the electric geyser.
Connect the outlet of the electric geyser to the tap in the bathroom.
When you turn on the tap, hot water from the solar system will be used until the capacity of the 100-liter tank is exhausted. At that point, the electric geyser will start heating up the available water, which will then be supplied to the tap.
The electric geyser is fitted with a thermostat, which ensures that the water is heated to the desired temperature before it reaches the tap. However, while this method is efficient, it does come with a downside: any unused hot water from the solar tank will become cold when the electric geyser kicks in. This means that when you switch over to the geyser, you have to drain the first 50 liters of cold water before you get access to the hot water from the solar heater.
Method 2: Parallel Installation and Manual Switching
This method allows you to use the electric geyser and the solar water heater in parallel, provided you are willing to manually switch between the two based on temperature.
Install valves at the outlets of both the solar heater and the geyser. Ensure both systems are connected directly to the tap.
If the temperature of the hot water from the solar heater drops, manually divert the flow to the geyser.
This manual switching method provides a more flexible solution and can save on costs. However, it requires effort to monitor the temperature and switch between the systems as needed.
Alternative Cost-Effective Solution
Another option is to install a 2-kilowatt electric heating coil in the solar water heater itself. This can eliminate the need for a separate water heater and can be a cost-effective solution. Installations of this coil typically range from 1200 Rupess to 1500 Rupees, providing a streamlined and integrated hot water supply system.
With this setup, you can skip the additional geyser altogether and enjoy hot water directly from the solar system when needed. However, it is important to consider the efficiency and environmental benefits of both options and choose the one that best meets your energy needs and budget.
Conclusion
The choice between these methods depends on your specific needs and preferences. The automated series connection is simpler but has the disadvantage of water wastage, while the parallel system with manual switching offers more flexibility but requires more effort. Installing an electric heating coil in the solar system provides a cost-effective solution and the best of both worlds. Regardless of which method you choose, it is important to ensure that your system is installed correctly and safely to avoid any potential issues.
By carefully considering your options and implementing the most suitable solution, you can ensure a reliable and efficient hot water supply for your household.