CSE

Center for Sustainable Energy

Another side of solar

A solar water heating system captures the thermal energy of the sun and uses it to heat water for your commercial needs. Unlike solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that collect sunlight and convert it into electricity, solar water heating (SWH) systems simply absorb the sun’s heat.

On cloudy days and at night, the system works with your existing water heater(s) or central boiler so that your property has hot water 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Soak up the sun and savings

Solar water heating provides a number of benefits for commercial properties.

save money

Energy Savings

Save up to 80% on your property's water heating costs.

conserve energy

Eco-Friendly

Sunlight is abundant, free, forever renewable and inflation-proof.

reduce greenhouse gases

Reduce Greenhouse Gases

Greening your operations can appeal to eco-conscious consumers.

 

How does solar water heating work?

A solar water heating system works in conjunction with your existing water heater or boiler to essentially “preheat” water before it enters the existing tank.
SWH systems can work with natural gas, electric or propane backup water heaters and boilers and even with tankless water heaters as long as the SWH system is compatible.

how solar water heating systems work
solar thermal collectorsSolar collectors, typically mounted on your property's roof, absorb the sun's thermal energy.
solar thermal collectorsA pump circulates a heat transfer fluid from the collectors through a heat exhchanger in your solar storage tank.
solar thermal collectorsThe heat exchanger transfers the sun's warmth to your water supply.
existing water heaterHot water flows to your existing water heater, which provides backup heating when the sun isn't shining.
 

Warm more than tap water

Hotels, gyms, restaurants, process plants and other businesses can realize the benefits of solar thermal technology in a variety of ways.

Domestic hot water

For bathing, dishwashing, laundry, cleaning, etc.

Pool and spa heating

Savings that make a splash

Space heating and cooling

Warm up your building, cool down your energy bill