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A solar hot water system works by the sun heating a solution of glycol and water in the rooftop solar collectors. The heated solution is pumped through the heat exchanger in the hot water tank. Next the heat exchanger heats the water in the hot water tank and the solution recirculates back to the rooftop solar collectors, where the cycle continuously repeats. The hot water is now ready for use in the home.
GREAT INVESTMENT
On average, if you install a solar water heater, your water heating bills should drop 50% - 80%. Also, because the sun is free, you're protected from future fuel shortages and price hikes. Other financial incentives include:
• Anticipated payback period of 3 to 7 years, in years with state and federal incentives.
• Solar energy systems can take advantage of the sun's free energy year round.
• Solar energy can be produced even at low temperatures.
• Federal tax credits help pay 30% of the system and installations costs. Many states and utilities offer additional support.
• Between tax credits and energy savings, this system offers a faster return on your investment than other types of solar energy systems.
• Lower first-time start up cost than solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
ENVIRONMENTALLY BENEFICIAL
• Solar energy is an unlimited resource.
• Solar energy does not produce harmful emissions or require transportation or pipelines like electric energy does.
• Solar water heating systems installed in the U.S. help reduce our household energy consumption, and the nation's reliance on toxic fossil fuels.
• Solar water heating systems will work anywhere in the U.S.,
not just sunny states.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy EERE consumer's guide
AESTHETICALLY PLEASING DESIGN
Solar collectors have been designed to hug the roofline, creating a streamlined, aesthetically pleasing appearance. |
