A solar water heater is a great invention that saves electricity and makes our lives much easier, but this invention - like any appliance - is not without glitches.
If you are experiencing solar water heater malfunctions this article will put you in order about the steps that need to be taken so that you can return to singing in the shower.
The most common problem with a solar water heater is the scale that accumulates in the pipes - a well-known blow in the Israeli climate.
Why is scale formed and why is it so dangerous for your uncle?
Tartar is a grayish white precipitate of calcium carbonate.
The source of the sediment is in limestone that was melted by the rains and made its way into the groundwater.
Why is tartar dangerous?
Because the accumulation of scale in a certain amount can clog the pipes and cause damage to the operation of the boiler.
However, contrary to fears that drinking tartar may cause kidney stones, the World Health Organization states that it has no health effects.
Another and no less common problem with a solar water heater is a leak from the collector pipes - the body used to convert light energy into heat, for the purpose of heating the water in the boiler.
Leakage is most often caused by a non-standard installation or wear and tear of the boiler (particularly relevant for boilers aged eight years or older).
On the height, also in the price
To avoid the faults we have listed here a simple rinsing of the collectors is enough.
Please note, the rinsing can be done alone.
Simply climb onto the roof carefully and flush the collector with a hose.
It can then be wiped with a dry rag.
If you are afraid to go up to the roof alone you can hire a professional.
The cost of the treatment is about 250 to 500 shekels, depending on the location of the boiler, or in the case of a tiled roof.
A leak repair costs about NIS 250-300, depending on the conditions.
If you live in a high place and exposed to winds - the weather damage may cause breakages in the collectors.
If the fracture is mild - it can be repaired and put back in place immediately, but if for some reason the fracture that has formed is deep there is no choice but to immediately replace the collector.
Price: NIS 1,600-2,500, depending on your type of collector.
An important tip for those of you who live in places where the temperature drops below zero degrees (Jerusalem, Safed, Golan Heights).
In these places the cold air can freeze the water vapor and cause damage to the pipes, so it is highly recommended to buy a Scadiol 40 collector, which is overly resistant to the cold.
Another recommended action to prevent malfunctions is to drain the water in the collector and switch to the state of an electric boiler.
In this situation the collector is actually disabled and the heating of the water is done only by an electric action.
In conclusion, preventive care - especially in places prone to disaster - is the best way to prevent unnecessary headaches, save money and get through the winter in peace, and those who do not catch - buy another catch.