Hot water is needed anywhere where food is prepared and hygiene plays an important role. A solar thermal system can provide hot water for cooking and cleaning and washing in many institutions, like canteens, schools and care institutions, hospitals and medical dispensaries, communal washing facilities, businesses and hotels.

Hot water is often a luxury in African countries, because of the scarce availability of firewood. The first priority is to cook food, and hot water therefore is only second priority. In some instances hot water can be very necessary, especially where equipment has to be cleaned or sterilised thoroughly, a thermal solar system can deliver this hot water for the benefit of all.

How does it work?

The most widely used solar water heating system consists of solar panels, control unit, circulating pump unit and solar cylinder. The solar panels are normally installed on a south facing roof or integrated into the roof covering. They can also be fixed to the façade of a house or free standing.

The solar cylinder can be situated anywhere inside the house or above the panel. Panels and cylinder are connected by well insulated pipes, through which the heat transfer medium (water) is being pumped. The solar radiation is converted into heat by the absorber inside the solar panel and then transported to the heat exchanger at the bottom of the solar cylinder.

Every system is fitted with safety valve, membrane expansion tank, air vent, thermometers, pressure gauge and fill & drain valve.

Solar systems require minimal maintenance and guarantee high comfort levels. 

Solar Hot Water

Hot water can also be useful in Africa, especially, when needed in a medial context or for hygienic reasons, such as in restaurants or for water sterilization. A different use would be for showers, i.e.for staff quarters of businesses and institutions.

Solar panels can generate hot water, with the free power of the sun.

Donate One Now – Euro Donates

· Hot water for cleaning, washing, showering, meal preparation, and hygiene

· Safe drinking water