Solar water heaters have been popular in certain areas of the world for quite some time. However, it wasn’t until much more recently that they became more commonplace in the US. Many homeowners are opting for solar water heaters because they’re much better for the environment than traditional water heaters. They allow you to significantly reduce your water heating expenses. Water heating typically accounts for around 14% to 18% of a household’s total energy usage. Therefore, investing in a solar water heater is a good option for people looking to lower their energy bills.
The main downside is that you’re usually looking at significant upfront costs. They may be twice as much, if not more, than you would for a traditional or a tankless unit. Whether or not it’s worth paying that much extra really depends on what your main priorities are and where you live. In this article, we’ll cover the basics of solar water heaters to help you decide if one is a good fit for your home.
How Solar Water Heaters Work
Solar water heaters come in several different designs, but all work on the same principle. They harness the sun’s energy to heat water, which is then stored in a large tank. The system works by circulating water from the storage tank through solar collector plates on the roof. These plates are essentially a series of pipes that absorb heat from the sun and transfer it to the water.
When the sun is shining, water is continually pumped out of the storage tank, through the collector plates, and then back to the tank. At night, the hot water stays in the insulated tank. Most solar water heaters have a backup heating system that can kick on as needed, so you always have hot water.
You can also choose an indirect solar water heaters, which operate in a similar manner. The difference is that the sun is used to heat a liquid chemical compound. This hot liquid then flows through pipes in the storage tank to heat the water. The liquid compound can withstand temperatures as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit without freezing. This type of setup is commonly used in places that experience freezing temperatures during the winter. Either type of solar water can usually be used in Georgia, provided you have a suitable south-facing location to mount the collectors.
Important Factors When Considering a Solar Water Heater
There are several factors to consider when determining whether a solar water heater is worthwhile. The first thing you need to determine is whether there is a suitable place on your roof. You need a spot that is large enough for the collector to receive sufficient direct sunlight. You’ll also need space for the tank.
For the system to pay off, the collector must receive a minimum of five hours of sunlight per day. Anything less, and the backup heating will need to run so much that it will generally not be worth the cost. However, you can still save money on energy by using a solar water heater to supplement your regular one. It could automatically switch to use your conventional water heater instead of a backup heater on the solar system.
The amount of space you need for the solar collector depends primarily on the size of your family. You’ll also need to factor in your hot water usage habits. You typically want a minimum of 20 gallons of storage capacity per person. For example, a four-person household would require at least an 80-gallon tank. The general recommendation for the size of the collector is 20 square feet for two people. You’ll need an additional 8 to 12 square feet of space for every person beyond that. However, this depends largely on how many hours of sunlight the collectors receive during the day.
For a larger solar water heater, the combined weight of the collector plates and the full storage tank can easily exceed 400 to 500 pounds. You need to make sure that your roof is in good condition and strong enough to support the added weight. Many homes require additional support added to the underlying roof structure to support the system. You should factor in this cost when deciding whether a solar water heater is worth it.
You may also want to consider the visual impact of adding a solar water heater to your home. Solar water heaters are bulky and can detract from a house’s aesthetics, negatively affecting its curb appeal. While this isn’t a major concern for everyone, it’s still another thing you should think about.
How Much Can You Save With a Solar Water Heater?
It’s difficult to determine an exact amount you can save on your energy bills with a solar water heater. How well a solar water heater works depends on a few things. These include the type and size of the system, how much sunlight the collectors receive each day, how many sunny days your area has annually, and how much hot water your household uses. When comparing a solar water heater with a traditional or tankless water heating unit, you also need to factor in the local gas or electricity rates.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average American household pays between $400 and $600 per year for water heating. Depending on the size and type of solar water heater you choose, you might pay between $3,000 and $8,000 to have one installed. The higher number reflects any necessary improvements to your roof’s underlying structure. You might also require upgrades to your electrical system. Most solar water heaters also last for around 20 years. A solar water heater can cut your water heating costs by over 50%, so it usually pays off if you don’t plan on moving.
Another thing to consider is that installing a solar water heater will almost always increase the value of your home. Real estate statistics indicate that for every $1 saved on energy costs with a solar system, the home’s value increases by approximately $20. You’ll usually recoup more than what you paid for the solar water heater if you sell your house within 10 years.
Trustworthy Water Heater Installation Services
If you’re looking to replace or upgrade your old water heater, Precision Heating & Air is ready to help. We offer heating, cooling, and plumbing services, including the installation of all types of water heaters. As a family-owned and -operated company, we have 40 years of experience serving homeowners in Dallas, GA and the Metro Atlanta area.
We will work to ensure that you get the right water heater for your needs. We offer a wide range of units from some of the best brands in the industry. We back up all our work with a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee. We also offer free estimates and provide financing options on approved credit. We are here 24/7 to respond to any emergencies. For more information or to schedule a consultation or service call, contact us today.
