Abstract: A solar water heater has a plurality of generally triangularly shaped panels, the panels being assembled in a pyramidal or prism shaped structure on top of a base structure. Each panel includes a planar transparent structure for permitting the passage of solar radiation therethrough. Coupled to the planar structure is a radiation absorbing member or multiplicity of radiation absorbing elements. The radiation absorbing member or elements are configured to form an enclosed structure so that water can flow, typically in channels, therebetween. An inlet is provided at the top of each panel and an outlet is provided at the bottom of each panel so that water can be introduced into the interior of the top of the panel and flows, under the influence of gravity, to the bottom of the panel, i.e., through the outlet. The solar radiation passing through the planar transparent structure is absorbed by the radiation absorbing member or elements, the radiation absorbing member or elements being heated thereby.

Abstract: A solar water heater has a basin or reservoir for collection and storage of heated water, a generally pyramidal or prism shaped structure for absorbing solar radiation, a transparent pyramidal or prism shaped structure for enclosing and thermally isolating the reservoir and radiation absorbing element, a pump and associated apparatus for projecting the water against heat absorbing structure and a valve for controlling the flow of heated water from the reservoir. The heat absorbing structure and the enclosing structure are comprised of a multiplicity of planar elements that can be disassembled for transport or for storage. The power consumption from external sources for operating the solar heating device can be reduced by providing a battery and by using air, expanded through the process of heating the water, to drive an electrical generator, the generator charging the battery.