Are you fed up with having to rely on the grid for hot water? If so, then you need to find out more about solar water heating. This is a type of heating system that draws its power from the sun, and there are so many benefits, including lower energy bills, enhanced energy efficiency, and the ability to increase the value of your home.
If you’re completely new to solar water heating but would like to know more, the guide below will explain everything you need to know including:
- What’s solar water heating and how does it work?
- What are the different types of solar water heaters?
- How much does a solar water heater cost?
- Are solar water heaters worth it?
Are you ready to get stuck in?
What is solar water heating and how does it work?
Solar water heating is a type of water heating system that gets its power from the sun. Providing a highly effective way to heat water, solar heaters use solar collectors that are placed on your roof to transform sunlight into solar energy.
As mentioned briefly above, there are many benefits to this type of water heating system such as lower energy bills and more energy efficiency.
What are the different types of solar water heaters?
There are two main types of solar water heaters: active solar heaters and passive solar heaters. You can also choose between different types of both active and passive solar heaters.
Active solar water heaters
- Direct circulating systems that circulate water through solar collectors on the roof and into your home. They’re best for climates that aren’t prone to freezing temperatures.
- Indirect circulating systems that circulate non-freezing heat-transfer liquid through collectors and a heat exchanger that warms the water. These are best for climates that are susceptible to freezing temperatures.
Passive solar water heaters
- Integral collector-storage passive systems where the sun heats the water via a transparent cover on a storage tank. They’re best for environments that aren’t susceptible to freezing.
- Thermosyphon systems where a collector on the roof heats the water that flows into your plumbing system.
How much does a solar water heater cost?
The average cost of a solar water heater in the United States is between $3–9,000. Although this may seem like quite a lot, once installed, this type of heating system can dramatically lower your utility bills. Furthermore, depending on where you live, you may be eligible for solar tax credits.
You can find out more about the cost of solar water heaters including installation fees at customsolarandleisure.com.
Are solar water heaters worth it?
According to the Department of Energy, the cost of hot water accounts for 14–18% of your utility bills. This equates to hundreds of dollars every year just to enjoy hot water in your home.
However, if you choose to install a solar water heater, you can expect to save as much as $800 on your utility bills each year and see a return on your investment in just a few years.
