How to Install a Solar Water Heater

20 March 2025

As energy costs continue to rise, homeowners are looking for ways to reduce their bills while also making eco-friendly choices. One of the best investments you can make in your property is installing a solar water heater. These systems use solar energy to heat water, reducing reliance on gas or electricity and lowering household running costs.

At PM247, we specialise in electrical, plumbing, and heating services, and while installing a solar water heater can be a DIY project, professional installation ensures safety, efficiency, and long-term performance. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the installation process, answer common questions, and explain how our team at PM247 can assist you.

Image courtesy of (CSE).

Is Solar Hot Water Worth Installing?

A solar water heater is an excellent investment for several reasons:

• Energy Savings – Reduces reliance on fossil fuels, leading to lower bills.
• Environmental Benefits – Decreases your carbon footprint by using renewable energy.
• Long-Term Cost Efficiency – While there is an initial installation cost, savings over time make up for it.
• Increases Property Value – A home with energy-efficient features is more attractive to buyers.

Solar water heating systems are particularly beneficial for households with high hot water usage. If you’re frequently running baths, using dishwashers, or doing laundry, you’ll see significant savings over time.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Solar Hot Water Heater?

The cost of installing a solar water heating system varies depending on the type of system and whether you install it yourself or hire professionals like PM247.

On average, prices in the UK range from £3,000 to £5,000 for a professionally installed system, while DIY kits can cost between £2,000 and £3,000. Government grants or incentives may be available to help offset costs, so it’s worth checking local schemes.

While DIY installation can save money upfront, it may not be as efficient as a professional installation. Mistakes in plumbing or wiring can lead to costly repairs later, which is why we always recommend consulting experts like PM247 for a reliable setup.

 

Interested in installing a solar water heater in your home or do you need maintenance and servicing on your current solar heater? Click contact us to request a free quote or call us now at: 08082 504 203

 

Can You Run a Water Heater on Solar Power?

Yes, a solar water heater can run almost entirely on solar energy. There are two primary types:

1. Active Solar Water Heaters – These systems use pumps to circulate water through solar panels and into the storage tank. They work well in all climates but require some electricity for the pump.
2. Passive Solar Water Heaters – These rely on natural convection to move water. They have fewer mechanical parts, making them more durable and requiring less maintenance.

Most homes use a combination system, where solar energy does the primary heating, and a conventional boiler or immersion heater acts as a backup for cloudy days.

How Is a Solar Water Heater Installed?

Step 1: Choose the Right System

Before starting, decide whether you want an active or passive system and whether you prefer a direct or indirect heating system.

• Direct systems heat water directly within the panels before it enters the home.
• Indirect systems use a heat exchanger with antifreeze fluid, which is ideal for colder climates.

Step 2: Select the Installation Location

For optimal efficiency, install solar panels on a south-facing roof with minimal shade. If a roof isn’t an option, a ground-mounted system can also work but may require additional space.

Step 3: Install the Solar Collector Panels

1. Mount the panels securely on the roof or ground frame.
2. Connect the panels to your plumbing system, ensuring pipes are insulated to prevent heat loss.
3. Secure the system against strong winds and extreme weather conditions.

Step 4: Connect to the Hot Water Tank

• If you’re using an existing hot water cylinder, ensure it is compatible with solar heating.
• For new installations, choose a cylinder designed for solar integration.
• Connect the inlet and outlet pipes to the tank, making sure all fittings are watertight.

Step 5: Install the Pump and Controller (for Active Systems)

• Position the pump station near the storage tank.
• Install a controller unit to regulate water temperature and flow.
• Ensure the pump is wired correctly and connected to a power source.

Step 6: Fill and Test the System

• Fill the system with water (or antifreeze in indirect systems) and check for leaks.
• If the system has a circulation pump, turn it on and monitor performance.
• Test hot water output to ensure it meets expectations.

Step 7: Insulate and Secure

• Insulate all exposed pipes to prevent heat loss.
• Secure all components firmly to avoid movement or damage.

Why Choose Professional Installation with PM247?

While installing a solar water heater yourself can be a rewarding project, it requires knowledge of plumbing, electrics, and roofing. Mistakes can lead to leaks, inefficiencies, or even structural damage to your home.

PM247 offers professional installation services to ensure:

• Safe and secure mounting of solar panels.
• Proper plumbing connections for efficient water flow.
• Electrical safety compliance, avoiding wiring issues.
• Ongoing maintenance and support, ensuring long-term performance.

Here’s a review left by a happy customer who chose to install a solar water heater with us:

By choosing PM247, you get a stress-free installation that maximises the efficiency of your solar water heater.

 

Final Thoughts from PM247

Installing a solar water heater is a smart move for homeowners looking to save on energy bills and reduce their carbon footprint. While it is possible to install one yourself, professional installation guarantees the best results.

If you’re considering making the switch to solar water heating, contact PM247 today. Our expert team can advise, install, and maintain your system, giving you peace of mind and long-term savings.

Want to learn more? Click to get in touch with PM247 or call us on 08082 504 203 for a consultation today!

Heating Services in your area: Bath, Bedfordshire, Berkshire, Bristol, Buckinghamshire, Essex, Gloucestershire, Hampshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London, Oxfordshire, Surrey, Warwickshire and West Midlands