An electric geyser can be one of the biggest loads on a family’s bill. A solar water heater uses sunlight directly — not solar panels — to heat water in an insulated tank, giving hot water for morning baths at almost no running cost.
Solar water heater vs solar panels
A solar water heater is a thermal system: it collects heat, not electricity. It is separate from a rooftop solar power (PV) system, and many homes have both. The water heater takes over the geyser load, while the PV system handles everything else.
ETC or FPC?
| ETC (evacuated tube) | FPC (flat plate) | |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Performance on cloudy days | Good | Good |
| Hard / salty water | Tubes can scale; needs care | Better with a heat exchanger |
| Durability | Glass tubes can break | Very robust |
Many areas of Kanyakumari district have hard or slightly salty water, especially near the coast. In those homes an FPC system, or an ETC system with a softener or heat exchanger, lasts longer.
What size do you need?
- 2–3 people: 100 litres per day
- 4–5 people: 150–200 litres per day
- 6+ people or a joint family: 250–300 litres per day
- Hostels, hotels and hospitals: sized from the number of beds and usage
Installation and care
The heater needs a shade-free spot on the terrace facing south, and a short pipe run to the bathrooms to limit heat loss. Clean the collector a few times a year and descale the tank as advised for your water quality.
Ask us about a solar water heater along with your rooftop solar system — book a free consultation.
