Terrace Readiness
Key Installation & Plumbing Requirements
- Overhead Tank Elevation: For gravity models, the bottom of the cold water overhead storage tank must be elevated at least 5 to 6 feet above the solar water heater to ensure smooth gravitational flow.
- South-Facing Unobstructed Sunlight: The collector tubes or plates must face True South (±15°) with zero shade from surrounding parapet walls, trees, or overhead water tanks between 9:00 AM and 4:30 PM.
- Hot Water Plumbing Pipes: We advise using high-temperature rated, insulated CPVC pipes or composite pipes to minimize temperature drop during transit from the terrace down to bathroom faucets.
- Air Vent Pipe: Proper vertical venting must be installed to relieve air locks and internal steam pressure during high-temperature afternoon hours.
Common Questions
Solar Water Heater FAQs
Which is better for Pune water: ETC or FPC solar water heaters?
For municipal corporation tap water (PMC or PCMC supply), Evacuated Tube Collector (ETC) systems offer the fastest heat absorption, lower upfront cost, and work remarkably well even on cloudy or winter days. For hard borewell water or high-pressure shower systems, Flat Plate Collector (FPC) with copper tubes or glass-lined ETC tanks are strongly recommended to resist mineral scaling.
How much capacity (LPD) is required for a 4-person family in Pune?
A standard thumb rule is 30 to 50 litres of hot water per person daily for bath and kitchen use. A 4-person family typically installs a 150 LPD or 200 LPD system. A 200 LPD system provides generous hot water capacity for morning showers and evening washing.
What height must the cold water overhead tank have above the solar heater?
For standard gravity-fed non-pressurized solar water heaters, the base of your cold water overhead tank should be elevated at least 5 to 7 feet above the solar water heater tank to ensure adequate gravitational feeding pressure. If you have an overhead pressure booster pump, a pressurized solar water heater model with heavy-gauge inner tank is required.
Does a solar water heater work during Pune monsoons and winter?
Yes. Pune receives strong diffuse solar radiation even during light monsoon clouds. During peak winter mornings (December-January, 11°C–14°C ambient), our high-density 50mm injected PUF insulation keeps the stored water hot at 60°C+ overnight. All our systems come with an optional thermostatically controlled electrical backup heating coil for extended rainy days.
