Solar water heaters have become a popular choice to traditional electric water heaters in many parts of the world, especially in locations with abundant sunlight. They offer a clean way to heat water for home use and can help reduce our reliance on non-renewable energy sources. However, like any other technology, there are some potential risks associated with solar water heater installations that need to be thoroughly evaluated before making a decision.

One major risk is the risk of inaccurate installation. If the solar water heaters are not installed correctly, they can be less effective and may not perform as expected. This can lead to wasted energy, maintenance expenses, and even potential safety hazards. Therefore, it is essential to hire qualified and trained professionals for installation to ensure that the solar water heaters are installed effectively.

Another risk associated with solar water heater installations is the potential damage to the roof. Solar water heaters require attaching the solar collector to the roof, which can exert excessive load and loading on the roof. Therefore, owners need to evaluate the structural integrity of their roof to ensure that it can support the added weight of the solar water heater. Any damage to the roof or foundation of the house may lead to expensive repairs.

Furthermore, considerations need to be given to the negative effects of solar water heaters, such as Legionnaires' disease. Legionnaires' disease can occur when water sits statically in a stagnant system, allowing bacteria to multiply. Therefore, the efficiency of the equipment is critical and routine check-ups must be performed to prevent this situation.

Additionally, there's possible exposure to high upfront costs and government incentives may come into play. To many residents or family homeowners, installing solar water heaters in their home involves a cost not easily covered from an immediate revenue return on the account holder. However, governments in most locations could provide financial rewards to installing local homeowners. Individuals should find out if such rewards exist to some of their areas before making the purchasing decision.

Lastly, owners need to understand that solar water heaters may need to be fine-tuned according to environmental conditions as it dramatically affects how they run. Ongoing studies needs to be implemented to reflect best solar water heaters usage habits that align with environmental information.