As the UAE continues to push forward with its sustainability goals, solar hot water systems are becoming a smart, eco-friendly solution for both residential and commercial properties. With year-round sunshine, it seems like a natural fit — but there are unique environmental challenges to consider when installing a solar thermal system in the region. If you’re thinking of installing a solar hot water system, here’s what you need to consider.
1. Overheating in Extreme Summer Temperatures
The UAE experiences some of the most intense sunlight in the world, with summer temperatures often exceeding 45°C. While this makes the region ideal for solar energy generation, it also introduces a common issue with conventional solar thermal systems: overheating.
An evacuated tube solar collector showing the long term effects of overheating
Overheating occurs when the system continues to absorb solar energy, but the hot water demand is low — typically during the summer months or when the property is unoccupied. Traditional metal-glass collectors can reach very high temperatures (~200degC) that damage system components, degrade heat transfer fluids, and increase maintenance costs.
The SolarisKit HelioFlow solar collector uses a polymer-based absorber that is designed to withstand high temperatures without degradation. Its unique design and materials naturally limit heat build-up, reducing the risk of overheating and prolonging system life.
2. Hard Water and Its Impact on System Longevity
Another critical issue for solar hot water systems in the UAE is hard water. High levels of calcium and magnesium can lead to scale build-up inside pipes, heat exchangers, and storage tanks. This build-up reduces system efficiency and can lead to premature failures, especially in metal-based systems.
The SolarisKit collector uses a non-metallic, corrosion-resistant material which offers far more tolerance to hard and mineralised water compared to traditional copper or aluminium systems. With fewer metallic parts, there’s less scaling and lower maintenance needs, making it ideal for the UAE’s water conditions.
3. System Efficiency and Installation Flexibility
In the UAE, rooftop real estate is often limited, especially in urban areas and commercial buildings. It’s important to choose a solar thermal system that is compact, easy to install, and offers flexibility in orientation.
The SolarisKit HelioFlow solar collector is not only lightweight and modular, but its prismatic design allows for easy installation and optimal solar gain from a wide range of angles — no need for complex mounting systems or perfect south-facing roofs. This makes it suitable for villas, apartment blocks, hotels, and even off-grid applications.
4. Cost, Maintenance, and ROI
Solar hot water systems are an investment, and it’s essential to consider the long-term maintenance costs and return on investment (ROI). Traditional systems can be expensive to maintain in harsh climates due to corrosion, scale build-up, and component failure.
With SolarisKit, the maintenance costs are significantly lower, thanks to the use of durable polymers and a simplified system design. It also offers a quicker ROI, especially in areas with high hot water demand such as homes, spas, gyms, and hotels.
Choosing the right Solar hot water solution for the UAE is important
When choosing a solar hot water system in the UAE, it’s essential to consider more than just sunlight availability. Overheating and hard water are real challenges that can shorten the life of conventional solar hot water systems. The SolarisKit HelioFlow solar collector offers a modern, attractive, and innovative solution — offering durability, efficiency, and lower maintenance, specifically designed to thrive in extreme climates like the UAE.
SolarisKit solar collectors installed at Rixos Hotel in the UAE
Ready to switch to the smarter solar heating solution?
Contact SolarisKit today to learn how our solar hot water solution can help you save money, reduce your carbon footprint, and enjoy reliable hot water all year round.
