Install Solar Hot Water System
Solar water heating is a great way to use a free natural resource—the sun—to heat your water. It’s a bit more of an investment than other water heating options, but a great way to go carbon free.
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
1Learn about solar water heating, costs and when to upgrade
Solar Water Heaters. Solar water heaters can be installed on any roof that is in good condition with sufficient sun exposure. The best direction for solar rooftop collectors is generally facing south and in some cases facing west.
Types of systems. There are a few different types of systems, including active and passive systems, and different types of collectors. The best approach is to have a professional help you determine which system will be best for your home. It is important to keep your conventional water heater as a backup for the system. Learn more about solar hot water system with this Energy.gov guide.
Cost. Solar hot water is a bit more expensive than other water heating options. Even with the free energy, the cost of the initial install is high. A typical solar hot water installation can cost $3,000-$10,000 or more depending on the type and size of system you choose. There is a 30% federal tax credit through 2019 and many areas also have state or local rebate programs. These credits can help to offset the costs of installation and increase the payback.
Savings. How much will you save? Solar hot water systems generally reduce 50-80% of your normal hot water energy use and energy bill. For an average family of 4, if you have an electric water heater now, you can save around $250-$400/year. For a gas water heater, the savings are lower, around $175-$280/year. Since solar hot water systems last 20+ years, over the lifetime of your system you could save up to $5,000-$8,000 for an electric system and up to $3,500-$5,500 for a natural gas system. This might cover the cost of installation over time, depending on your current water heating bill.
The bottom line—this is a big investment with a long payback. Cost and benefits vary considerably based on your home, which system you choose, rebates, credits, and your financing options. It is best to contact a professional installer who can help you estimate the costs and savings for your specific home to determine whether this is the right investment for you.
Choose an Electric Heat Pump Water Heater. Another option to go carbon free with your water heating is to install a highly efficient electric heat pump water heater (HPWH) with a Green Power program or home solar (electric). Installing a HPWH could lower your bill almost the same amount as a solar water heating system, yet generally costs less for the initial install. With Green Power added, you can run your new HPWH with clean, renewable energy!
Try Solar Electric first. If you want to go solar, it almost always makes sense to install solar electric (PV) panels first. If you have the budget for both, go for it!
2Choose a new water heater, install, and save!
If you are ready to install a new solar hot water heater, here are a few tips:
Choose a contractor. First, choose a contractor to help you decide on a model and do the installation. When choosing a contractor, remember to request cost estimates in writing, ask for references, check the company with the local Better Business Bureau and see if the company understands local building codes. Also, check in with your neighbors or ask for a recommendation from your community members here on the site!
Finally, once you have installed your new system, make sure to maintain it for maximum efficiency, energy savings, and comfort!
Congrats! Enjoy your hot water powered by the sun!