|
|
|
|
SOLAR HOT WATER PACKAGE $5700 - click here for details Key Benefits
How does it work? Hot water heating typically accounts for 15 to 30% of residential energy costs. Solar hot water heaters can supply a large proportion of your domestic hot water needs. Collectors (usually roof-mounted) are used to concentrate solar energy and heat water. There are generally two types of collectors. Flat plate collectors are simple, proven, and cost effective. Evacuated tube collectors are more efficient, but the cost per heat produced is higher than the flat plate collector (see "Collector Comparison"). In the Pacific Northwest, with occasional freezing temperatures the circulating water typically contains food grade glycol as an antifreeze. A small pump circulates the heated fluid, usually in a closed-loop, through a heat exchanger which transfers the heat to a domestic hot water storage tank. The circulation pump can be powered by a small solar electric panel. When there is not enough solar heat, the tank is heated using electric or gas heat. Solar hot water can also be used with on-demand water heaters and can be linked to radiant space heating systems (see "Solar Space Heating" section).
Evacuated tube hot water collector Flat plate hot water collector
What does it cost? Installed costs are generally $5000 to $8000, but systems are usually eligible for a 30% Federal Tax Credit. For radiant space heating additional panels and heat exchangers are required and costs increase accordingly. To qualify for the Federal Tax Credit, the system must produce 50% or more of the hot water needed by the residence and must use collectors certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation. Payback periods for solar hot water systems are generally about 5 to 7 years. Get a Quotation - Download Questionnaire More Information U.S. Department of Energy - solar hot water heating
|
|
|
