Solar energy is cheapest as well as renewable resource available for heating water in your homes. Best quality solar water heater can reduce the annual energy costs of heating or preheating your water by at-least 50%.
Solar water heaters come in a wide variety of designs, all including a collector and storage tank, and all using the sun’s thermal energy to heat water. This post will give you complete details on best solar waters to install at your home along with buyer’s guide to make wise purchase.
Suggested read:
Best Solar Water Heaters | Best LPG Geysers | Best Electric Geysers | Best Immersion Heaters | Best Instant Geysers | Instant vs Storage Geyser
Readiness Check for Solar Water Heater
Before proceeding further, it is best to answer yourself whether you are ready or you really need a solar water heater. Check below questions to find it for yourself.
1. Is it suitable for solar power?
First find out if your home or office is suitable for a solar water heater. You will need to install the solar water heater in a place (roof, open land, or anywhere else) which fulfills these conditions:
- It gets direct sunlight
- The place faces the South Eastern direction
- It can hold the weight of the solar panels and the entire system
2. Which type suits your need?
Find out beforehand what type and system of solar water heater will be best for you. You can read the above section on ‘What Type of Solar Water Heater do I choose’ to figure that out
3. What capacity of solar heater you need?
To know what capacity solar water heater you need, take a look at how much water capacity your current water heater has, and use that as a benchmark
4. What maintenance is required?
After installing the solar water heater it is important to ensure that there is proper maintenance. You must perform periodic maintenance to ensure that the solar water heater keeps on working efficiently.
List of Best Solar Water Heaters in India
Let us take quick look at best solar water heaters available at a glance.
| Solar Water Heater Model | Material & Features | Warranty | Apprx Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supreme 250 LPD SS-004 Solar Water Heater | Material: Stainless steel with PUF insulation Accessories: Auxiliary tank | 5 years | INR 23240/- |
| MegaPower 250 Liter Solar Water Heater | Material: Stainless Steel Accessories: Stand to hold the heater | 7 years | INR 29900/- |
| Samurai 300 liters Solar Water Heater | Material: Pure Aluminum Accessories: Stand to hold the system | 8 years | INR 38000/- |
| Sun Zone Solar 250 LPD Concentric Tube Water Heater | Material: Stainless steel with high-quality PUF insulation Accessories: Stand that holds the system | 12 months | INR 70500/- |
| AWCRE 300 Liters Solar Water Heater | Material: Stainless Steel Accessories: Stand to hold the heater | 5 years | INR 26500/- |
| Saur Shakti 250 Liters Solar Water Heater | Material: Galvanized iron Accessories: Stand to hold the system | – | INR 28,000/- |
Detailed Review of Best Solar Water Heaters Online
This section has detailed review of each solar water heaters listed in this port. For the purpose of this review we referred various portals such as Amazon, Flipkart, product review sites etc. Apart from consumer feedback, this detailed review considers many factors including technical specifications, materials used, accessories, design and compactness, cost, warranty period etc.
1. Supreme 250 LPD SS-004 Solar Water Heater
- Material: Stainless steel with PUF insulation
- Accessories: Auxiliary tank
- Warranty: 5 years
For anyone looking for a solar water heater rich in features can go for Supreme SS-004. This is one of the most efficient systems you will get today.
It has a capacity of 250 liters and is best suited for medium-sized families. One of the best features of the solar water heater is the quality coating it has. It promotes better absorption of sunlight, which makes it faster than other models of the same range.
Made with high-grade materials, this solar heater is one of the durable options you will find. The solar glass provided is both impact and scratch-resistant. This means you can use the device even under harsh environmental conditions. The well-designed solar cells promote great functionality.
Pros: Good things
- Durable
- Large capacity
- Scratch and impact resistant
- High-speed heating
Cons: Poor things
- Suitable only for medium-sized families
2. MegaPower 250 Liter Solar Water Heater
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Accessories: Stand to hold the heater
- Warranty: 7 years of guarantee
MegaPower 250 liter is one of the finest solar water heaters you will get in the market. With 304 liters of inner tank capacity, it makes an excellent choice for larger families.
The container is made with state-of-the-art technology. It is designed to handle water without creating any problem. With the use of evacuated glass tubes, it prevents the occurrence of scaling deposits.
The solar water heater can keep the water temperature high even during chilly nights. This is made possible with the high injection PUF insulation. To protect it from corrosion, the outer tank is galvanized and pre-coated. This makes the device more durable and long-lasting. It is also provided with a stand to hold up the system.
It has glass tubes developed using a unique technique that enables the system to absorb maximum sunlight. This is a lightweight system and also easy to assemble. It is provided with an instruction manual to help you out.
Pros: Good things
- Durable
- Easy to install
- Large capacity
- Corrosion-resistant
Cons: Poor things
- Expensive
3. Samurai 300 liters Solar Water Heater
- Material: Pure Aluminum
- Accessories: Stand to hold the system
- Warranty: 8 years
If you have more than 3 to 4 members, then Samurai 300 liters could be the best choice for you. With 300 liters of capacity, it can serve large families efficiently.
The best thing about the system is made of pure aluminum. Not just that, but it is designed to heat water very fast. This will ensure a constant hot water supply whenever you need it.
It is equipped with high-quality solar cells that are efficient to heat the water at a pleasant temperature. For budget buyers, this could be the best choice as you can get the system for a genuine price. The product is made to last longer and also comes with all the needed features.
Pros: Good things
- High-quality solar cells
- Durable
- Pure aluminum
- Comes with a stand
Cons: Poor things
- Suitable only for residential purposes
- Material: Stainless steel with high-quality PUF insulation
- Accessories: Stand that holds the system
- Warranty: 12 months
4. Sun Zone Solar 250 LPD Concentric Tube Water Heater
If you are looking for the best solar water heater in the market, then there’s nothing above Sun Zone 250 liters. This is an efficient system equipped with all the right features that you need. It also promotes great functionality.
The first thing you will notice about the solar water heater is the inner tank. The stainless steel water tank is nicely welded so that there’s no leakage. Along with that, it also has high-quality PUF insulation. This enables the system to retain heat for a long time.
With the help of this system, you can get hot water whenever you need it. Another highlight is that it is an eco-green solar water heater system. It is constructed with premium-grade materials to make it long-lasting.
The stand provided with the system is made with pure polyester, which has a powder coating on the top. This enables the system to withstand even under the toughest weather conditions. Once you get the system installed, you know for a fact that it will last for a lifetime.
For anyone who is looking for a convenient way of getting a hot water supply can opt for this model. By installing this system, you can easily cut down on your electricity bills.
Pros: Good things
- High-grade materials
- Easy to install
- Durable
- Eco-green
Cons: Poor things
- Expensive unit
5. AWCRE 300 Liters Solar Water Heater
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Accessories: Stand to hold the heater
- Warranty: 5 years
For those who are living in joint families of 7 to 8 people can easily opt for this solar water heater system to get a convenient supply of hot water. With 300 liters of capacity, it can support large families without any issues.
The system is designed to absorb maximum heat. This is achieved with the use of ETC tubes. This also helps in enhancing the conversion of cold to hot water.
It comes with a nicely constructed stand that is designed to hold the tubes at a suitable angle so that they can get maximum sunlight. This, as a result, increases heat absorption.
Unlike other solar water heaters, AWCRE is very easy to install. All the components fit each other easily and thus, it makes the set-up easy. If you are looking for a long-lasting system, then this could be the one for you. This is achieved by making the entire system rust proof. With this system, you don’t have to worry about depreciation caused by rust.
Once you install the system at home, you no longer have to wait for hot water. This is one of the best solar water heaters for home use.
Pros: Good things
- High-quality tubes
- Rustproof
- Durable
- Easy installation
Cons: Poor things
- Not meant for industrial use
6. Saur Shakti 250 Liters Solar Water Heater
- Material: Galvanised iron
- Accessories: Stand to hold the system
- Warranty:
Are you tired of paying excess electricity bill every month? Well, you no longer have to do so because you have Saur Shakti 250 liters solar water heater to help you.
The system comes with 250 liters of capacity, which makes it an ideal choice for medium-sized families. If you want, you can even use the system for commercial purposes.
The system is designed to heat and maintain water temperature even in chilly winters. This makes the system more efficient than others. The solar water heater is ideal for outdoor set-up because of the rustproof, galvanized iron. It is also equipped with suitable glass tubes that help absorb more heat.
The inner tank is coated with a glossy material that helps in handling hard water. This also ensures that the tank doesn’t experience any scaling while it’s on. The stand provided with the system holds it at a 45-degree angle. This helps in boosting the functionality and efficiency of the system.
The system is made to last longer and is one of the best available options for you. This durable solar water heater is precisely what you are looking for.
Pros: Good things
- Durable
- Long-lasting
- Rustproof construction
- Easy setup
Cons: Poor things
- Bit expensive
Buyer’s Guide – Best Solar Water Heaters
Solar water heaters comes with many types and designs. Also there are many manufacturers in India to provide you solar heaters. Remainder of the section will cover all these aspects in more details.
Types of Solar Water Heaters
There are two types of Solar Water Heaters: Active systems and Passive systems.
1. Active Systems
Active Systems comes in two types- Direct Circulation Systems and Indirect Circulation Systems.
- The Direct Circulation Systems are ideal for the places where temperature doesn’t follow below zero. It pumps the household water through collectors which is then delivered in your house for use. These units come with the automatic controllers to sense the sunlight.
- On the other hand, Indirect Circulation Systems functions well in temperatures below zero. But these units are expensive. These units heat the water by pumping it through a heat transfer fluid and then delivered through the collectors and a heat exchanger.
2. Passive Systems
The passive systems are also available in two types- Integral Collector-Storage Passive Systems and Thermosyphon Systems.
- The Integral Collector Storage Systems come with the storage tank, solar collection unit, and pipes that pump cold water into the collector. And therefore an ideal option for the households with significant water needs. These units are ideal for the areas where temperature doesn’t fall below zero.
- While Thermosyphon systems are the most reliable one and great for the households with strong hot water needs. These units are also expensive and work well in the area where temperature falls below zero.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Solar Water Heaters
The Good
- Efficient and reliable source of water heating
- Reduces the electricity bills as it uses solar energy to heat up the water
- Environment-friendly
- Renewable and clean source of energy
- Easy to install and requires a little maintenance
- One time investment to install them and it works approx 20-30 years without creating any trouble
The Bad
- Purchasing cost and installation is expensive as compared to other water heating sources like immersion rods, geysers, and water heaters
- It works only when the solar energy is available, means solar water heaters require direct sunlight for its functioning
- The system does not work in cloudy, rainy, and foggy days
- Sufficient roof space is required to install them
What type of solar water heater works best in India?
1. There are two types of solar water heaters, the Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater and the Evacuated Tube Collector Solar Water Heater.
2. There are two types of systems in use for taking the water from the Solar Water Heater into your home – Thermosyphon and Forced Circulation Systems. The Thermosyphon system does not have a water pump to take the water into your home and works on the principle of solar heat, and are simple and relatively cheaper. The Forced Circulation System uses a water pump to take the water into your home or institution.
3. The Thermosyhon System is better for homes and smaller institutions it is cheaper to run as it does not require an addition pump.
4. Both the Evacuated Tube Collector Solar Water Heater and Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater can be used with either a Thermosyphon System or a Forced Circulation System.
5. The Thermosyphon system needs good water which does not have high chlorine content.
6. The Forced Circulation System is generally used for large institutions and larger developments.
7. The Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater is made of metal and has a longer life.
8. The Evacuated Tube Collector Solar Water Heater uses glass as a component which does not have as along a life as the Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater.
9. If the water in your area is hard and has more chlorine then the Evacuated Tube Collector Solar Water Heater is preferable as it does not get blocked due to scaling from the hard water.
10. The Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater can be used with hard water, but it will need an additional heat exchanger unit.
11. In warmer regions both the Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater and the Evacuated Tube Collector Solar Water Heater perform equally well.
12. However in colder regions where there is a chance of water freezing, the Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater is preferred as they avoid the water freezing even during sub zero temperatures.
13. Even the Flat Plate Collector Solar Water Heater can be used in colder regions but it will need anti-freeze which increases the cost.
Who are the Main Solar Water Heater Manufacturers/Suppliers in India?
It is nothing less than a task to find the best manufacturing company among so many other companies. All of them claim to provide the best results but fails to do so. Therefore, to make your work easier we have brought you the list of best and most reputed Indian solar water heater manufacturing companies to choose from.
1. Tata Power Solar Systems Ltd
Tata is one of the renowned names in the Solar industry. Also, this is one of the leading Indian solar company. Below listed are some of the features of this company that will compel you to invest in this manufacturing company now.
- The main goal of this company is to provide the solar products everywhere in the country.
- They make the best solar power heating systems for home and also racold solar water heating system.
- Solar water heating system price is also affordable if you will buy them from the Tata power solar system.
2. Inter Solar System
Inter Solar System is one of the most reputed names in the Solar industry for its quality products and services. They have an expertise in manufacturing the best solar water heater. This company is serving quality since 1997 all over India. One of the other reason to choose this company is the affordable cost of solar water heater. This company manufactures solar water heater and solar water heating systems at low price rates & use best quality products. They also make the best solar water heating systems for homes.
3. EMMVEE
EMMVEE is one of the best solar water heater manufacturing companies that manufacture the high -quality and high -performance solar systems. This is a Bengaluru based company that is also involved in making other solar products. They make the best solar water heater that is available at an affordable price which is the major reason to choose this company.
4. Icomm Tele Ltd
Icomm Tele Ltd is one of the best and the most reputed solar companies in India. It was established in the year 1989. It has branches in various places like Nepal, Africa, Middle East, Bangladesh, Srilanka. They manufacture the solar products for various sectors like residents, industries, infrastructure etc. to name a few. Solar water heating system price is also less as compared to what other manufacture.
5. IndoSolar Ltd
This solar water heater manufacturing company is serving since 2008. The company uses the best and the world-class manufacturing techniques to build the best solar products. They offer the solar products to both local and international market. Solar water heater cost is definitely affordable when compared to other products.
6. Kotak Urja Pvt. Ltd.
The main purpose of Kotak Urja Pvt. Ltd. is to make quality products that can be used in the day to day life. This company offers a wide array of services as it is a part of the Kotak Group which was established in the year 1927.
7. MBSL – Solar water heater manufacturing company
MBSL stands for Moser Baer Solar Ltd which is one of the leading solar companies in India. Its total capacity is 250 MW in the split technology. They make the best solar products so that normal people can use them in their daily lives.
8. Photon Energy Systems Ltd.
It manufactures the best solar water heating systems but is also involved in making other quality solar products. This is serving quality to the country since 1997. It is one of the leading solar companies to offer reliable solar products to the customers.
9. Vikram Solar Pvt. Ltd.
Vikram Solar Pvt. Ltd. is yet another leading solar energy providers of India. It offers a wide range of solar products to the customers. Also, it has managed to make an international presence throughout the years.
10. Waaree Energies Ltd.
This company is serving since 1989 which offers a wide range of solar products. These products are not only good in quality but are also cost -effective. They make the best solar water heaters or solar water heating systems that provide you the best results.
Solar Water Heater – Commonly Asked Questions
Almost every solar water heater that you see in the market comes with a backup unit which is needed during the night time or when there is not enough sunlight. It is usually paired with a backup electric or gas water heater, which serves two purposes. One is heating the water on days that don’t provide enough sunlight. The second purpose is to augment boiling the water when it is not hot enough.
Here are some of the points you need to keep in mind to maintain your solar water heater:
– You should clean the glass cover regularly.
– Try to prevent any shade on the collector.
– You need to make sure that there is always a cold water supply to the solar water heater.
– Once a year, you need to make an effort to flush out the entire system to get rid of any settled dirt. But make sure that you use soft water to prevent any blockages in the collector pipes.
According to industry insiders, the hot water that you get from a solar water heater is known to contain chemicals that are linked to cancer. According to them, almost all the water heated by a solar water heater contains high levels of nitrite. Nitrate is a harmful chemical that can cause various issues to your health. The remaining water in the heater that is heated repeatedly is what produces nitrate in the water. This chemical is said to be the cause of stomach cancer. However, it is still not confirmed whether it is true.
A solar water heater is designed to work better under the sunlight. But during the wintertime, the sun rays are low because of which they cannot give you enough hot water. However, that doesn’t mean they will completely stop working. You will still get hot water but not as warm as you get in the other seasons. The story is the same, even during monsoons. The best time to use a solar water heater is during the summer months when there is ample sunlight.
Over to You
Solar water heaters are best alternatives to electric ones if you are ready to have one. They are cheaper and are from renewable energy. We hope this post has enough information for you to make a wise decision to install the best available solar water heater in India. Please share your feedback and suggestions.
