Installation
The basic requirement for functioning of a solar system is availability of unobstructed sunlight for the whole day. Typically, domestic solar water heating systems are installed on the roof of the house. The collectors of the system have to face the sun and hence should be oriented due south for maximum interception of sunlight. Thus there should be no obstruction to sunlight in the south, west and east directions in that order of preference
Operation
Domestic solar water heaters work on the principle of thermosyphonic action in which water circulates through the system by virtue of density difference between hot and cold streams. No electricity is required for circulation of water or for any other operation in such systems. However, in case a back up heater is provided to take care of hot water requirement during cloudy days, electricity will be required.
Maintenance
Domestic solar water heating system do not need significant maintenance requirements. Occasional leakages in the plumbing could be easily repaired by common plumbers. In case quality of water is hard, scale deposition in the collectors may result over the years. This may require descaling with acids for which it is best to contact the suppliers. Broken glass may also have to be replaced by the suppliers.
