As energy costs continue to rise in Kenya, more homeowners and businesses are turning to evacuated tube solar heaters for reliable, cost-effective hot water. At Solar Energy Suppliers, we supply and install high-performance evacuated tube solar water heaters designed to deliver excellent efficiency even in low sunlight conditions.
This guide explains how evacuated tube solar heaters work, their benefits, pricing considerations, and why they are ideal for the Kenyan climate.
Table of Contents
What Is an Evacuated Tube Solar Heater?
An evacuated tube solar heater is a solar water heating system that uses glass vacuum tubes to capture and retain heat from the sun. Each tube consists of two layers of glass with a vacuum in between, which minimizes heat loss and maximizes thermal efficiency.
These systems are particularly effective in:
- Cool or cloudy conditions
- High-altitude areas
- Regions with inconsistent sunlight
How Evacuated Tube Solar Heaters Work
- Sunlight hits the vacuum tubes
- The absorber coating inside the tube converts sunlight into heat
- Heat is transferred to water (or heat pipe fluid)
- Hot water rises naturally into the storage tank (thermosiphon principle)
- Hot water is stored and ready for use throughout the day
Because of the vacuum insulation, heat loss is extremely low, making the system highly efficient.
Benefits of Evacuated Tube Solar Heaters
1. High Energy Efficiency
Evacuated tube systems can be up to 30–40% more efficient than flat plate collectors, especially in cold or windy areas.
2. Excellent Performance in Cloudy Weather
They continue heating water even during overcast or rainy days, making them suitable for most parts of Kenya.
3. Faster Water Heating
Water heats faster due to superior heat absorption and insulation.
4. Lower Heat Loss
Vacuum insulation reduces heat loss, keeping water hot for longer periods.
5. Cost Savings
Significant reduction in electricity or gas bills over the system’s lifespan.
Evacuated Tube vs Flat Plate Solar Heaters
| Feature | Evacuated Tube | Flat Plate |
| Efficiency | Very high | Moderate |
| Cloudy Weather Performance | Excellent | Average |
| Heat Retention | Very high | Moderate |
| Initial Cost | Slightly higher | Lower |
| Maintenance | Tube replacement possible | Minimal |
Ideal Applications in Kenya
Evacuated tube solar heaters are suitable for:
- Residential homes
- Apartments & hostels
- Hotels & lodges
- Hospitals & clinics
- Schools & institutions
- Farms & dairy operations
They perform exceptionally well in highland areas such as Nairobi, Kiambu, Nyeri, Nakuru, and Eldoret.
Evacuated Tube Solar Heater Prices in Kenya (Indicative)
| Capacity | Suitable For | Estimated Price (KES) |
| 100 Litres | 1–2 people | 65,000 – 90,000 |
| 150 Litres | Small family | 85,000 – 120,000 |
| 200 Litres | Medium household | 110,000 – 160,000 |
| 300 Litres | Large family / Small business | 160,000 – 230,000 |
| 500+ Litres | Commercial use | Price on Quotation |
📌 Prices vary depending on tank material, pressure rating, and installation location.
Pressurised vs Non-Pressurised Evacuated Tube Systems
Non-Pressurised Systems
- Gravity-fed
- Lower cost
- Ideal for residential use
Pressurised Systems
- Compatible with high-pressure plumbing
- Suitable for hotels and apartments
- Higher cost but greater convenience
Installation & Maintenance
Installation
- Rooftop mounted
- Requires proper tilt and orientation
- Professional installation recommended
Maintenance
- Minimal maintenance required
- Individual tubes can be replaced if damaged
- Annual inspection recommended
Why Choose Solar Energy Suppliers?
At Solar Energy Suppliers, we provide:
- High-quality evacuated tube solar heaters
- Competitive pricing in Kenya
- Professional installation
- Transparent quotations
- After-sales support & guidance
We serve homes and businesses across Kenya with reliable solar water heating solutions.
Conclusion
Evacuated tube solar heaters are one of the most efficient and reliable solar water heating solutions in Kenya. With excellent performance in all weather conditions and long-term cost savings, they are a smart investment for both homes and businesses.
Solar Energy Suppliers is your trusted partner for quality solar water heating systems.
