Is the water from a solar water heater drinkable?
The use of solar water heaters is widespread in Greece and many other countries due to their efficiency in heating water by harnessing solar energy. A common question that arises, however, is whether the water from a solar water heater is suitable for drinking.
First, it should be clarified that the water circulating in the solar collectors of the heater is not the same as the water that comes out of the tap. In most systems, the water from the collectors does not come into direct contact with the potable water, as the heating occurs through indirect heat transfer, using special fluids or water itself as a medium that circulates in closed loops.
Reasons why the water from a solar water heater is not suitable for drinking:
- Internal Corrosion: The metal parts of water heaters, such as copper or other metals, may corrode, allowing harmful elements to be released into the water.
- High Temperatures: The high temperatures to which the water inside the solar heater is exposed may encourage the growth of bacteria or microorganisms, such as Legionella (Legionella), especially if proper maintenance is not carried out.
- Stored Water: The water in the solar water heater is stored for long periods and may not meet the cleanliness standards required for drinking water.
Recommendations:
- Non-potable water: In general, the water from the solar water heater is not suitable for drinking unless there is a specific certification from the manufacturer stating that it meets hygiene standards.
- Maintenance: Regular system maintenance and disinfection of the heater can reduce the risk of bacterial growth but does not necessarily make the water drinkable.
In any case, it is recommended that drinking water come from specialized filtration systems or directly from the water supply network, without passing through the solar water heater.
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