Are you looking for a way to cut your energy costs this summer? If so, you should consider using a solar shower. Solar showers are a great way to get clean without using any electricity. Today, we will discuss the basics of solar showers and provide tips on how to use them effectively. We will also provide a list of our top five solar shower picks.
What Are Solar Showers?
Solar showers are a type of shower that uses the sun’s energy to heat up water. This water is then stored in a tank, which you can use to take a shower. Solar showers come in two different varieties: passive and active. Passive solar showers rely on the natural warmth of the sun to heat the water. Active solar showers have a pump that helps to circulate the water and ensure that it is heated consistently.
How Do Solar Showers Work?
Solar showers work by using sunlight and sometimes a pump to heat water. This heated water is then stored in a tank, which you can use to take a shower. The amount of time it takes for the water to heat up will depend on the type of solar shower that you have. Passive solar showers can take anywhere from four to six hours to heat up, while active solar showers typically only take two to three hours.
Solar showers are a reliable way to get clean, as long as the sun is out. If it is cloudy or raining, the water in your solar shower may not be heated. This means that you may have to take a cold shower or wait until the sun comes back out. Additionally, if you live in an area with long winters, your solar shower may not work during the winter months.
Tips for Using Solar Showers
Now that you know how solar showers work, here are a few tips on how to use them effectively:
- Make sure that your solar shower is in a sunny spot. The more sunlight it receives, the faster the water will heat up.
- Avoid using a solar shower during cloudy days or in shady areas. The sun’s energy won’t be able to heat the water as effectively under these conditions.
- If you are using a passive solar shower, remember that it can take several hours for the water to heat up. Plan accordingly and fill up your shower tank ahead of time.
- Be sure to test the temperature of the water before getting in. The water should be warm, but not hot. If it is too hot, you can add cold water to the tank to cool it down.
The Top 5 Best Solar Showers
Now that you know all there is to know about solar showers, it’s time to get shopping. Here are our top five picks for solar showers:
1. Advanced Elements 5-Gallon Solar Shower
This solar shower from Advanced Elements is a great option for those who are looking for an active solar shower. It features a pump that circulates the water, ensuring that it is heated evenly. Additionally, the shower head is adjustable, so you can control the water pressure. This shower also comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport.
The Summer Shower is the same size as most of these hanging bag-type showers, but it differs in that it has a tiny thermal strip that responds to heat to determine the temperature of the water in the bag as accurately as possible. It also includes a pre-attached shaving mirror, which is a nice bonus.
2. Nemo Helio Pressure Shower
The Helio portable pressurized shower and sprayer, which won an International Home & Garden Award in the category of “Best Utility Product,” is a gravity camp shower that works on the ground and provides the pressure you need to wash hair, do the dishes, rinse off equipment, water your plants, or wash the dog.
The 2.9-gallon tank can be rapidly and simply pressurized with a foot pump, and it can remain completely pressurized for 5–7 minutes of strong, continuous spray after just a few pumps. It’s impossible to over-inflate the black tank. To gradually heat up the black tank or fill it directly with hot water for a hot shower, simply remove the foot pump and screw on the included solar thermal collector (sold separately) to any hose.
3. Stearns Sun Shower 4 Portable Shower
The Stearns Sun Shower is a great option for those who are looking for an easy-to-use solar shower. It features a pump that helps to circulate the water, ensuring that it is heated evenly. Its showerhead is adjustable, so you can control the water pressure. This shower also comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport.
With a five-gallon capacity, this shower is another option that is perfect for small groups. The Stearns Sun Shower also comes with a solar heating panel that can be used to preheat the water before your shower. This can be a great option if you are going to be using the shower in an area where it may not get as much sun.
4. Coleman’s Solar Shower
Coleman’s Solar Shower is a great option for those who are looking for a highly mobile solar shower for camping. It is fitted with a pump that helps to circulate the water, ensuring that it is heated evenly. Additionally, the showerhead is adjustable, so you can control the water pressure. This shower also comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport.
The Coleman, however, feels less durable than others we considered. The bottom is made of a thinner material, and the seams are not as well-reinforced. Additionally, the shower head on this model is less adjustable than on some of the other models.
5. Vango Solar Shower
The Vango Solar Shower features a pump that helps to circulate the water, ensuring that it is heated evenly. Additionally, the showerhead is adjustable, so you can control the water pressure. This shower also comes with a carrying case, making it easy to transport.
The Vango Solar Shower also has a temperature gauge, so you can ensure that the water is at the perfect temperature before getting in. This is a great feature for those who are particular about the temperature of their shower water.
When looking for a solar shower, it is important to consider the size of the tank, as well as any extra features that may be included. All of the showers on our list are easy to use and transportable, making them perfect for camping trips or outdoor events. No matter which shower you choose, you are sure to enjoy the convenience of being able to take a hot shower without having to worry about running out of water.
Give us a Call
While Outdoor Shower Company doesn’t offer the tanks/bags for solar showers, you can often connect you solar shower to our shower heads, faucets, and other hardware. Our knowledgeable staff is standing by to answer any questions you may have about solar showers and any other outdoor shower options you may be considering.
Give us a call or contact us today!
