Solar Hot Water

Solar Thermal Water Heating Systems use the sun's energy to heat water for use by homes, commercial buildings and swimming pools. While some solar collectors look like solar photovoltaic panels, they are quite different. Solar thermal panels do no generate electricity, but simply absorb sun's heat.

Overview

Benefits of Solar Water Heaters

Example of Residential Solar Hot Water System

Solar Hot Water Tank

Example of a Residential Solar Hot Water System

Example of Commercial Hot Water System

Evacuated Tube vs. Flat Plate Collectors

Solar Thermal Hot Water Systems are a Proven and Reliable Technology

Solar hot water heaters have been in use since the 1970s. Approximately 25,000 systems are installed each year in the U.S.

Solar Water Heating Systems are Highly Durable, Have a Warranty of 10 Years, and Operate for 20+ years

The average life expectancy of qualified solar water heating systems is 20 years, much longer than standard gas or electric storage water heaters. (Source: energystar.gov)

Solar Water Heating Systems Require Annual/Periodic Maintenance

The system require some moderate annual maintenance to ensure efficient operation.
A qualified contractor can conduct annual maintenance inspections.

A Solar Thermal System Can Reduce Hot Water Bills by 50%-80%.

Solar Thermal is Most Suitable for Residential or Commercial Buildings That Consume Large Amounts of Hot Water and/or Use Electric or Oil Water Heaters.

A Solar Thermal System can Cut Carbon Emission by 50% or More.

A solar water heater will reduce the load of your residential electric water heater by almost 2,500 kWh per year.
A residential solar water heater will prevent 4,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere annually – the equivalent of not driving your car for four months every year! ( Source: energystar.gov )