Common Problems With Solar Hot Water

Blocked Pipes

When sediment builds up in your hot water heater's pipes, it can cause a clog. Blocked drains will always compromise the performance of your solar hot water system.

As debris, dirt and sediment can prevent water from flowing freely through the pipes, your water heater will work harder to warm water and will become a lot less efficient. You can clear your blocked pipes by flushing out sediment with a cleansing agent, and use this agent once or twice a year for optimal maintenance.

For serious and stubborn blockages, it's always best to contact a plumber to help you resolve the problem quickly and safely.

Noisy Operation

Some solar-powered hot water systems can be very noisy. If this is the case, you may have an issue with the controller within your system. 

If you detect any noise coming from your hot water system, there's likely a problem. You can prevent this issue by avoiding a steel or iron component within your system, as these can lead to galvanic corrosion and cause humming sounds in some water systems.

You may also be able to prevent this issue by installing a new controller or a tempering valve, but this needs professional expertise - so contact a plumber if this is the case.

Heat Transfer Leakage

Solar hot water systems don't often leak heat transfer fluid or water, but when they do the damage can be extensive. When leakage does occur, it most likely takes place in the thermal collector and pipe, indicating hardware damage. 

If you notice a leak, contact a professional straight away. A plumber will likely suggest you turn off your system straight away, and not to try and repair the leak on your own as you may end up compromising your system's components. Fluid leaks can arise anywhere within your heating system - your roof, piping, heat exchangers, and storage.

You'll usually be able to repair these components without needing to organise a replacement, but if leaks are detected while your system's still young you will need to replace the faulty parts to reduce the chance of more issues. A professional plumber will be able to help you organise these replacements.

Pest Infestations

While pest infestations crop up more infrequently, they can be seriously damaging. Many owners of solar hot water systems have dealt with ant infestations, in which the ants find their way inside the system and compromise its effectiveness. Ants can quickly short-circuit your system, eating through your insulation and creating holes in the lining. If you notice sandy deposits in the base of your tank, you likely have an ant infestation. 

A great way to prevent infestations is by scheduling regular inspections, but you'll never be able to pinpoint exactly where or when the ants made their way into your system. Any infestations can be treated by spraying insecticides around the system.

You could also contact a professional or a pest control technician to perform a pest inspection. They have the expertise and equipment on hand to identify the infestation and to suggest which action should be taken.