If you live off-the grid, you may want a hot water system that doesn't require electricity. Similarly, if you live in an area that is prone to frequent power outages, you may also want to explore some ways that you can heat water when your power is out. Whether you are heating water for cooking, bathing or cleaning, here are some ideas that can work.
1. Gas Powered Hot Water Heater
Whether you're off the grid or just prone to losing power, a gas-fueled hot water heater may be the best option. For this to work, you need to have a propane tank or a company, like Austwest Plumbing & Gas, that can get the propane to your area.
2. Pellet Furnace With Water Heating Capabilities
Another option for heating water without electricity is a pellet furnace. These furnaces are fed with pellets, and they are perfect for reducing energy consumption with home heating.
Then, you need to add an indirect water heater and storage tank next to your pellet furnace. The heat from the furnace heats up the water so you can use it throughout your home. In lieu of pellets, you can opt for a wood burning furnace—the overall premise is exactly the same
3. Solar Hot Water Heater
If you have lots of sunshine, you may want to consider turning to solar heating. There are a few options including passive solar. Basically, you set a tank of water on the roof, and the sun heats it. Insulation helps contain the heat, but during cold times of year, you won't be able to rely exclusively on this method.
Alternatively, you can invest in a small solar panel system with a battery. Then, instead of using the solar panels to power your entire home, you can just connect them to your hot water heater. Then, whether you have electricity or not, you still have hot water.
4. Batch Heating
You don't necessarily have to invest in a hot water system that heats a tankful of hot water at a time. Instead, you can heat water by the batch. You can heat it over your stove or a wood burning stove. If you use a cast iron wood burning stove, be careful. Too much water dripped onto the stove can cause the cast to shatter.
If you are looking for methods to heat up hot water during power outages and you don't have a wood burning stove or a gas stove, you may want to invest in a small camping stove.
