It’s no surprise that it takes a lot of energy to heat the water in your home. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, nearly 18 percent of your home’s energy use goes toward heating water. If you’re looking to reduce energy use and save money, consider switching to a solar water heater in your home.
What is a solar water heater?
A solar water heater is a high-efficiency appliance designed to take energy from the sun to heat stored water. The heater is placed in the open area of your roof where it gets adequate sunlight throughout the day. Solar power doesn’t cost anything and doesn’t depend on fossil fuels, so there are no charges from your utility company.
How does it work?
Direct sunlight is accumulated in the collectors and the sun’s thermal energy heats the stored water. The water then passes through a heat exchanger in the insulated storage tank and transfers the heat to the water. The result is a 24/7 supply of hot water.
What are the benefits?
If you’re trying to decide if solar water heaters are worth the investment or the right choice for you, here are some of the benefits:
Free Energy
When you install a solar water heater, you’ll receive the cost of your investment back in the form of free energy. The average home sees at least a 50% reduction in water heating electricity use, per the Department of Energy. If you live in a warmer, sunnier climate, you could see up to a 90% decrease in your energy bill. Saving money and free energy makes for a winning investment.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
Studies by the Environmental Protection Agency show that carbon emissions are a large contributing factor to climate change. Solar water heaters use the renewable energy of the sun to provide hot water in your home. By taking advantage of solar energy, you’re using and releasing fewer fossil fuels into the Earth’s atmosphere. According to ENERGY STAR, installing a solar water heater prevents 4,000 pounds of carbon dioxide from entering the atmosphere annually. Not only are you helping to save the environment and leaving our planet a better place for future generations, but you’ll also save on your utility bill.
High-Efficiency
Using sunlight to heat your water directly is more efficient than converting sunlight into energy which is then used to heat the water in your home. Solar water heater panels reduce the traditional two-step process to one streamlined step.
Uses Minimal Space
The average home requires one to three solar water heater panels for maximum efficiency, while traditional solar panels can easily cover your entire roof. This makes solar water heater panels a great money and space-saving option.
Less Expensive Than Solar Panels
Because you’ll need fewer panels, solar water heater panels are cheaper to install than traditional solar panels. However, for extra long-term savings, you may opt to install regular solar panels in addition to solar water heaters. Whatever option you choose, you can help save the environment and reduce your utility bills.
Homeowners always have something to do; there is rarely a moment of rest when it comes to upkeep your home’s appearance and its operating systems. But Donfrio Mechanicals and Plumbing Masters Inc. wants to make your life easier and take care of ensuring that your HVAC system is working correctly. We would be honored if we can cross that off your to-do list. Donofrio Mechanicals and Plumbing Masters Inc. prides itself on providing exemplary customer services. Visit our website or call us at 855-296-8719 to learn more today!
Sources
https://wateruseitwisely.com/solarwaterheater/
https://www.energystar.gov/products/water_heaters/water_heater_solar/benefits_savings
https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/estimating-cost-and-energy-efficiency-solar-water-heater