In this case, solar energy is converted to heated water which is then available for household purposes. In a solar water heating system or solar thermal collector system, the energy of the sun is attracted by collectors (either flat plate collectors or evacuated tubes) that are fitted on the rooftop of a household.

Hot water is then transported through the tubes for household purposes.Alternatively, thermodynamic panels can be used which are slightly pricier but can supply 90% or more of the water needs of a family.

That is possible because thermodynamic heating systems use a different technology than solar thermal, as they are exploiting the heat from the ambient air rather than relying solely on solar energy.