What is solar water heating?
A solar water heating system captures the thermal energy of the sun and uses it to heat water for your multifamily property. Unlike solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that collect sunlight and convert it into electricity, solar water heating (SWH) systems simply absorb the sun's heat.
On cloudy days and at night, the system works with your existing water heater(s) or central boiler so that your tenants have hot water 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
![save money](/sites/default/files/images/nav/buildings/businesses/swh/multifamily/swh_about_icons2-save.png)
Save Money
Save up to 80% on your property's water heating costs.
![conserve energy](/sites/default/files/images/nav/buildings/businesses/swh/multifamily/swh_about_icons2-conserve.png)
Conserve Energy
Sunlight is abundant, free, forever renewable and inflation-proof.
![reduce greenhouse gases](/sites/default/files/images/nav/buildings/businesses/swh/multifamily/swh_about_icons2-greenhouse.png)
Reduce Greenhouse Gases
Greening your operations can appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
How does solar water heating work?
A solar water heating (SWH) system works in conjunction with your existing water heater or boiler to essentially "preheat" water before it enters the existing tank. SWH systems work with natural gas, electric or propane backup water heaters and boilers and even with tankless water heaters as long as the SWH system is compatible.
![how solar water heating systems work](/sites/default/files/images/nav/buildings/businesses/swh/multifamily/swh_graphic.jpg)
![]() | Solar collectors, typically mounted on your property's roof, absorb the sun's thermal energy. |
![]() | A pump circulates a heat transfer fluid from the collectors through a heat exhchanger in your solar storage tank. |
![]() | The heat exchanger transfers the sun's warmth to your water supply. |
![]() | Hot water flows to your existing water heater, which provides backup heating when the sun isn't shining. |
Warm more than tap water
Multifamily properties can use solar water heating for a variety of uses including
Domestic hot water
For bathing, dishwashing, laundry, cleaning, etc.
Pool and spa heating
Savings that make a splash
Space heating and cooling
Warm up your building, cool down your energy bill