Which is the best Solar water heater in Nepal -Tube system or Copper Panel?

Many households are using solar water heater in Nepal as an economical and environmentally responsible solution as a result of growing electricity prices and growing awareness of sustainable living. However, many individuals are confused by the differences between evacuated tube and flat plate copper panel systems when it comes to selecting the best kind of solar water heater.

The differences, advantages, and dis-advantages of both systems are discussed below to help you in choosing the best one for your Nepalese residence or place of business.

What is Solar Water Heater?

A solar water heater heats water by absorbing the energy of the sun. It is made up of a water storage tank, solar collectors (either panels or tubes), and occasionally a circulation pump.

Types of Solar Water Heater in Nepal

Evacuated Tube System (ETC)

Tube system is a type of solar water heater system that uses glass tubes to capture solar heat and transmit it straight to the water inside the tubes.

Advantages of Tube Solar Water Heater in Nepal

1. It improves heat retention even in cold and overcast conditions.
2. It is more effective in colder, higher-altitude areas.
3. It provides rapid heating of water.
4. There are only few moving parts which mean less maintenance.
5. It is cheaper than copper panel system.

Drawbacks of Tube Solar Water Heater in Nepal

1. Glass tubes are delicate and more likely to break in transportation or hailstorms.
2. It is comparatively weaker than copper panel system.
3. It is unsuitable for high-pressure uses.

Flat Plate Copper Panel Solar Water Heater

Copper panel absorb heat and transmit it to water through copper pipes using copper panels covered in toughened glass.

Advantages of Flat Plate Copper Panel Solar Water Heater

1. It is extremely resilient and appropriate for any weather
2. Its life expectancy is 15-20 years
3. It performs well in high-pressure systems, such as solar hybrid systems or pressure pumps used in contemporary homes.
4. Breakage danger is lower than that of tube system.

Drawback of Flat Plate Copper Panel Solar Water Heater

1. The higher initial cost is a drawback.
2. It is less effective in cold or overcast weather.
3. It requires constant maintenance to keep panels clean and stop scale buildup.

Which one is best for you?

1. If you are finding a reasonable alternative in solar water heater, you should purchase Evacuated Tube System.
2. If you are located in cold regions then you should go for Tube solar water heater.
3. For large households, Hospital, Hotels and restaurant, Copper panel system is the best alternative.
4. Location with high risk of hail storms must opt for copper panel system.
5. For large households, Hospital, Hotels and restaurant using high pressure pumps for water circulation, Copper panel system is the best alternative.

Tips for Installation and maintenance

1. For the most solar exposure, place it on a roof that faces south.
2. Clean the collectors on a regular basis (every six months).
3. To avoid scaling, use soft water or use a filter.
4. To increase longevity, get professional maintenance every year.

Both tube-type solar water heater and copper panel-type solar water heater in Nepal offer great long-term savings and environmental benefits. The right system for you depends on your location, usage, and budget.