Solar water heaters are known as very popular technology that is both eco-friendly and not so demanding in maintenance compared to alternatives. On the other side, like other heaters, they do also have their breakdowns which may occur from time to time and put a great burden on their owners.
What should you do in case of a non-warranty issue? Finding a contractor or there is a chance to avoid any expenses, isn’t there?
Common Breakdowns of Solar Hot Water Heater
If you already came across some issues with your solar water heater, the first step is to refer to your warranty brochure. There should be explicit information on what to do, and when you should contact the warranty provider.
Find a contractor by Contractorfinder when small issues occur, since they may get insights on what should be done in the first instance.
So, let’s cover the most common breakdowns when using a solar water heater and finding a contractor.
Stains and Corrosion
Stains and corrosion are pretty common although modern units are mostly made with water-resistant parts. If you notice any stains on the joints, it may be a signal that the unit is degraded by water infiltration. It then may lead to corrosion.
In most cases, this problem results only in poor aesthetics, however, some owners experience performance problems with their panels like reduced pressure or leakages.
Commonly, this breakdown does not require you to finding a contractor or contact the warranty center, since the regular checkups are enough to prevent more of them. Once if the stains become a massive issue, you should contact a plumber to deal with them.
Clogs and Mineral Deposits
Those who live in areas with hard water may come across the clog because of a build-up of mineral deposits in the water. This is not a case for a warranty. All you can do is to prevent such events with a water softener. On the other side, such actions may speed up the corrosion.
Therefore, finding a contractor to have regular inspection of the anodes may be the best choice. Some homeowners also claimed to use a vinegar/water solution which they run through the system. It may occasionally help you as well to prevent buildup.
Hard Freezes
Looking for solar water heater repair when your panel faces hard freezes? People who live in very cold winters may come across their water not running. In their case, the solution is to use antifreeze liquid regardless of cold temperatures.
Nevertheless, these liquids may be occasionally dangerous and require regular checkups on their efficacy for your solar water heater. Make sure to find a contractor to inspect your system once every 3-5 years.
This case is also not subject to any warranty but it may be repaired with a plumber at a small cost.
Performance Issues
The solar panels may easily collect dust and dirt which may seem normal at first. From case to case, you may simply clean that, however, when you do not organize any checkups, these issues may lead to reduced water flow and deteriorated pressure.
Again, finding a contractor is the best choice to ensure your panel may serve you long.
That’s pretty standard issues that do not require a warranty but the help of a plumber or a contractor. Based on one’s manufacturer information, the following cases are never subject to receiving warranty coverage, hence, solar hot water heater repair from the manufacturer.
- You have a solar glass panel or collector broken – You can replace it only at your own expense;
- You have a magnesium rod in the tank;
- Excessive salt concentration resulting in damaged electrical tank parts;
- Damaged safety valves of the tank caused by salts or external particles;
- Damaged tank or collector due to excessive pressure of the water supply;
- Damaged tank due to overheating;
- Damage caused by unauthorized intervention;
- Damage caused by poor maintenance;
- Damage due to vandalism or fire among others.
This is an approximate list of non-warranty cases. They may differ based on the unit model you have or manufacturer specifications which you may find with your unit brochure.
To understand whether your breakdown might be eligible for warranty coverage, you should contact the manufacturer or a party that provided you with the unit.
On some occasions, the non-warranty issues may be partially covered if you have proof that the breakdown was not your fault. By finding a contractor, you may also figure out how to get warranty coverage.
In case of a massive breakdown, you should abstain from repairing the unit on your own. It may be dangerous and result in even higher deterioration of the system. Call the plumber or any other expert available in this area to start the repair immediately.