Enfield, NH, Zero Energy Building, Solar hot water

Residential - March 2011

No fossil fuels, no operational costs, no emissions of any kind

Quick Facts

Average Annual Savings

$600

Energy Needs Met

75% to 99%

of hot water

Net Investment

$6,500

Return on Investment

9.2%

Property

Owner:: Kimberley Smith Quirk / Energy Emporium
Type:: Residential
Address:: 78 Main St, Enfield, NE 03748
Size:: 3,200 sq ft
Energy need met:: 75% to 99% of hot water
Designations:: Deep energy retrofit; Zero net energy
Event Participation:: NESEA Green Buildings Open House 2013 Host

Technology

Type:: Solar Hot Water
Installed:: March 2011
Size of System:: 4 collectors
Purposes:: To heat hot water

Financial Details

Gross Cost of System:: $11,000
Value of Rebates:: $1,500
Value of Tax Credits:: $3,000
Net Cost of System:: $6,500
Annual Savings:: $600
Own or Lease:: Cash Purchase

Professionals & Suppliers

Products:: Beijing Sunda Solar Energy
Financing:: Mascoma Savings Bank

What You Need to Know

Description:

We installed a domestic heat exchanger inside a large (4000 gal) solar hot water storage system, which is used to heat the house (see solar space heating solutions). As well as providing a good proportion of the heat for the house, this seasonal storage tank also provides at least 80% of our domestic hot water. A small electric on-demand system provides any additional heating needed in the mid-winter.

Maintenance Requirements:

Typical maintenance of a solar hot water loop -- pumps, temperatures, glycol freeze point.

Efficiency or Sustainability Improvements:

Any electric make up that is needed is offset by a solar PV system on the roof.

My Motivation:

My goal was for zero fossil fuels and no combustion.

Experience with Installer:

I am a designer and installer for renewable energy products.

Open House Info:

Please come and visit between 10am and 4pm. We have a tour set up with pictures from 1858 to today -- detailed information on the renovation, the seasonal storage, solar thermal and solar PV systems. Datalogging also on display. 78 Main St, Enfield, NH 03748 www.energyemp.com

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