Solar water pre-heater tank

[bweigel2112]

Thoughts on installing a passive solar colllector to preheat water prior to entering 50gal electric wh. I have a wife with a garden tub and 3 teenage daughters....the present wh cannot keep up with the demand. Present wh is in garage on south side of house and has plenty of space above to install vertical or horizontal wh. We live in an hoa that may frown on ugly solar collector being visible from road. I believe i know the key components needed for this project (expansion tank, tempering valve, etc.) But would like some advice to fine tune the project. Thanks

 

[Mr_David]

solar heated water can become extremely hot. A properly installed system would require options to control temp. You should consult an expert on your proposed plan. some require tempering valves or pump controllers to regulate the heat. It would be un wise to just think you can preheat the water as it flows directly through some type of solar panel.

Post up your plan and maybe we can tell you what's wrong with it.