Solar energy is another way to create heat. A geyser’s energy use is almost a third of an average family’s energy use. Solar energy can now be used to heat your residential household water; it can be used in RV’s and cabins, as well as for electric power production.
The main incentive behind installing a solar energy kit is to save money.
The systems work by using the sun’s energy to create heat. There are many systems available; amongst them are flat plates – with a geyser at the top that is installed on the roof of the residential property, office building or cabin. The average system lasts approximately 15 to 20 years.
Benefits of Using Solar Heating
In South Africa, the sun’s energy can be used throughout the year, because there are few days that the sun does not shine. Using a solar heating system also helps with combating earth warming and is a good way to contribute towards saving the planet.
In South Africa, it is a solution to the high electricity bills residents receives each. Solar heating is also clean energy, with no toxic gasses, which means it is good for the environment.
Helping Poor Communities
Essentially, solar heating can be used to create energy and heat water in in poorer communities. Many poor communities in South Africa cannot afford high water and electricity bills. By installing solar heating panels, these communities can benefit from solar energy. By bringing down the cost of solar power it will make is an accessible energy option for poorer communities.
Warm Water in Summer
Solar heating can extend the swimming season by four months and will enable the heat in the pool to be a comfortable temperature for swimming.
At times, even though this country is known for its hot weather, the water is still too cold to swim. Various types of heating are available and the water is normally heated to between 24 to 34 degrees.
Electrical Savings
Solar panels in South Africa should face north for optimum efficiency. If a roof is situated in a shady area of the garden, it can influence the efficiency with which the water is heated.
The system should optimally be managed by setting the geyser temperature to the minimum or switching the geyser on only during overcast weather or when substantial amounts of water is used.
A timer switch can also be installed on the distribution board which will control the geyser element.
Additional insulation of the geyser is important in the winter months. During these months heat is dramatically reduced.
So whether the driving force to install solar heating is to overcome the electricity crises of Eskom or to save money on household electricity consumption, solar heating is the way to go. There are options to install your own solar heating or hire a professional to install it for you.
There is an abundance of generous sun energy ready to be used.
References:
1. Solar Home, solarhome.org Accessed 2 February, 2010
2. Solar Aid, solar-aid.org Accessed 2 February, 2010
Jana Engelbrecht - Jana Engelbrecht is a 26-year-old freelance and award-winning newspaper journalist. She has been playing with words since she was able to ...
