A Solar Hot Water Solution Served Locally
Posted by Chad Norman February 28th, 2008 .
While SC creeps along with net-metering, I thought I’d take a look at a solar technology that has positive economics today: solar hot water. Hot water heaters consume a large share of our household juice each year, so cutting the cord can have a real impact.
I contacted Solar Hot Water Works (part of Elemental Design Group), and Thane came over for a quick site evaluation and estimate. As I suspected, my south-facing roof suited the 2-panel setup well. This means the simple drainback system could hook me up with most of my hot water and cut my electric bill by up to 1/3. Nice.
With the federal tax credits, the ROI makes sense as a home owner…both in energy savings and home value. I also think it improves the look of the neighborhood and sets a positive example, something I can’t wait to discuss with the architecture review board. Wish me luck!
If you’re interested in a solar hot water heater, you can check out some great online resources here, here, and here.
5 Responses to “A Solar Hot Water Solution Served Locally”
- 1 Pingback on Feb 28th, 2008 at 2:56 pm
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Solar hot water heaters will get more and more widely use in the future. Its the best way to save cost and energy. I just bought a solar water heater last 2 months ago. And my savings just increase to about 30%!
My husband and I are VERY interested - but what about the cost? Would you mind telling us how much it will cost you total?
I don’t have my papers with me, but it was ~$5000 up front. Then by applying for two different tax credits, I can receive ~$3000 back from big brother. So, in the end, it should be around ~$2000.
Basically, without those tax credits it would not be economically feasible. That’s why we all need to make sure the tax code doesn’t get changed (unless it’s for the better.)
Solar Water Heaters Buy one online now, here is a price example