Solar Water Heater Education and Training

Learn to install and maintain solar hot water heating systems
By Terri Deno Solar water heating is a relatively new technology, but it's becoming popular with many home and business builders. It is an attractive option because a residential or commercial solar water heater uses the power of the sun to heat water, instead of gas or electricity. This is an environmentally friendly choice for many businesses. It also saves a significant amount of money in energy costs.

Those who want to install and maintain a solar hot water heater will need conventional HVAC training, as well as special training to learn how to install and repair solar panels. You can find solar water heater education and training opportunities through:

1. Manufacturers where consumers buy solar water heater technology.

2. HVAC training courses.

3. Seminars and workshops that provide education in solar technology.

Get training provided by manufacturers of solar water heating systems

Most solar water heating systems manufacturers provide some type of training for contractors or HVAC professionals. This can range from providing installation manuals to scheduled training courses for on-site or in-person education. Many manufacturers also provide certification for those who attend training.
Try:  Silicon Solar provides training workshops to teach people how to install its solar products, including solar hot water heaters. TCT Solar provides a spec guide and full installation manual for its solar water heating products.

Explore HVAC courses that teach solar water heater system installation and repair

Many HVAC courses teach general heating a cooling systems, but you can also find HVAC schools and programs certified by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC). This training teaches advanced skills in solar technologies, including how to install and repair solar heating and electric systems.
Try:  Solar Contractor School provides an advanced solar contractor training program that teaches the skills needed to install and repair all types of solar heating and water systems. The Florida Solar Energy Center offers many courses that cover solar energy practices, including mechanical and electrical systems for buildings that use solar energy.

Attend seminars and workshops to learn more about solar water heating panels

Solar water heating panels are still a relatively new technology, so many seminars and workshops are held by organizations and schools throughout the year to teach the latest in solar technology. These seminars can also teach advanced repair and installation skills, plus provide an opportunity to network with other professionals.
Try:  Sun City Solar Energy provides a seminar on the basics of solar energy, including information on its light environmental impact, cost-saving issues and the latest innovations. The Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association has a seminar that introduces people to renewable energy, including solar water and space heating systems. 

• If you want to work with solar powered water heaters, you may also want to seek membership in one of many professional HVAC or solar energy organizations.