solar water heating
A system using solar radiation directly to heat water, usually with supplemental conventional water heating.
Pictured: Korellweg 4
Solar water heating is a system or mechanism for heating water directly with ambient solar radiation, usually on the roof or grounds of the structure equipped with it. This saves usage of gas or electricity; however because of variations in available sunlight the system must usually be supplemented with conventional water heaters.
The solar collectors used in a solar water heating system may look similar to photovoltaic panels, but their purpose is not to generate electricity.
The solar collectors supply heat rather than electricity. Their similar appearance does not make them photovoltaic panels; a conventional backup heater is usual rather than mandatory.
