heating element replacement

Your solar water heater is a reliable and energy-efficient way to heat water, but like any system, it requires maintenance to ensure it performs optimally. One crucial component that may need attention over time is the heating element. A faulty or worn-out heating element can drastically reduce the efficiency of your solar water heater, leading to cold showers and increased energy bills.

In this blog, we’ll guide you through the importance of heating element replacement, how to identify when it’s time for a replacement, and how to keep your Sundware solar water heater running at its best.

Why is the Heating Element Important?

The heating element in a solar water heater plays a key role in heating the water inside the tank. While solar energy is the primary source of heat, the heating element acts as a backup, ensuring that hot water is available during cloudy days or at night when the sun isn’t shining.

Typically, the heating element is powered by electricity and works by converting electrical energy into heat. This heat is then transferred to the water, raising its temperature to your desired level. Over time, the heating element may accumulate scale or corrode, affecting its efficiency.

Signs Your Heating Element Needs Replacement

No Hot Water or Insufficient Heating If you notice that your solar water heater isn’t producing hot water or the water temperature is consistently lower than expected, the heating element could be failing. This is one of the most common signs that replacement is necessary.
Strange Noises from the Tank A buzzing, popping, or crackling sound coming from your water heater can indicate a build-up of scale on the heating element. As the scale layers thicken, it can affect the efficiency of the heating element and cause these sounds. In severe cases, the heating element may need replacement.
Water Quality Issues If your hot water has a strange taste or smell, it could be due to a malfunctioning heating element. The buildup of minerals and sediment can cause the element to deteriorate, releasing undesirable particles into the water.
Increased Energy Bills A malfunctioning heating element can cause the system to work harder than necessary, using more energy to heat water. If your electricity bills have increased unexpectedly, it could be a sign that your heating element is not functioning efficiently.
Visible Damage or Corrosion If you can access the heating element and notice visible signs of corrosion or damage, it’s time for a replacement. Corroded or broken elements cannot heat water effectively, and continuing to use a damaged element could cause further issues with your solar water heater.

How to Replace the Heating Element

Replacing the heating element in your solar water heater should ideally be done by a professional. However, understanding the general steps involved can help you better understand the process and the importance of hiring a certified technician.

Turn Off Power Supply Before attempting any work on your solar water heater, ensure that the power supply is turned off completely. This prevents electrical hazards and ensures that you’re working in a safe environment.
Drain the Tank Drain the water from the tank to access the heating element. Be sure to let the tank cool down before you begin draining to avoid burns or injury.
Remove the Old Heating Element The heating element is usually secured in place with bolts or screws. Use the appropriate tools to carefully remove the damaged element.
Install the New Heating Element Once the old element is removed, install the new Sundware heating elementfollowing the manufacturer’s instructions. Ensure that the new element is securely fitted and properly connected to the electrical wiring.
Test the New Element After installation, turn the power back on and check if the water is heating properly. If the system is functioning correctly, your solar water heater should be able to heat water efficiently once again.

Preventing Heating Element Damage

While heating element replacement is sometimes inevitable, there are steps you can take to extend the life of your heating element:

Regular Maintenance: Clean the tank and the heating element periodically to remove any mineral buildup or scale. This can prevent clogs and maintain the efficiency of the element.
Use Softened Water: Hard water can cause mineral deposits to accumulate on the heating element. Consider using a water softener if your area has hard water.
Check the Anode Rod: The anode rod helps prevent corrosion in the tank and the heating element. Ensure that it’s in good condition and replace it when necessary to extend the life of your system.

How to Ensure a Long-Lasting Solar Water Heater

To maximize the lifespan of your Sundware solar water heater, it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s maintenance guidelines. In addition to replacing the heating element when necessary, ensure that you are:

Cleaning the tank regularly to remove scale and sediment buildup
Checking safety accessories like the pressure relief valve and temperature regulator
Scheduling professional maintenance every six months with a certified Sundware solar technician or an authorized dealer, such as Proudi Trading FZE

Sundware’s 5-Year Warranty on Solar Water Heaters

Sundware offers a 5-year warranty on the solar water heater tank and heating elements, provided that the system is regularly serviced and maintained. If your heating element fails due to a manufacturing defect during the warranty period, you may be eligible for a repair or replacement free of charge. However, regular maintenance is a key factor in keeping your system under warranty.

For more information about maintenance services or heating element replacement, feel free to contact us:

Email: [email protected]
Phone: +971 50 632 5364

Conclusion

Heating element replacement is an essential part of maintaining your Sundware solar water heater. By recognizing the signs of a failing element and acting quickly, you can prevent further damage to your system and enjoy consistent hot water. Regular maintenance is key to extending the life of your solar water heater and ensuring optimal performance. If you’re unsure whether your heating element needs replacement or need help with servicing, don’t hesitate to contact a certified technician.