Harnessing the power of the sun to provide hot water for your home is one of the most effective ways to use renewable energy and lower your utility bills. An energy-efficient solar unit can reduce your annual water heating costs by half, according to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).
Solar water heaters typically require a backup system for cloudy days and periods of high demand. Cheap, clean and reliable natural gas is the perfect fuel choice to make sure you have hot water available when you need it.
Answers to frequently asked questions
The following are answers to frequently asked questions about solar water heating systems.
- How do solar water heating systems work? Solar systems include a collector and a storage tank. The water passes through the collector, where it's heated by the sun's rays. Active systems use a pump to circulate water while passive systems depend on natural convection or water pressure. In colder climates, systems may include antifreeze solutions and heat exchangers.
- Is my home a good fit for solar water heating? Houses located in warm and sunny climates are the most suitable for solar water heating. However, if your home has unshaded areas and generally faces south, it's a good candidate for a solar water heating system.
- How much do solar water heaters cost? Solar water heaters are typically more expensive to install than conventional systems. With incentives and lower operating costs, solar units more than pay for themselves over time. The DOE offers some advice on estimating costs.
- How long do solar water heating systems last? The average life expectancy of certified solar water heating systems is 20 years, much longer than standard gas or electric storage water heaters
- What incentives are available for solar water heaters? The federal Renewable Energy Tax Credits provide incentives to cover up to 30% of the cost of installing a qualifying system. A variety of state and local incentives are also available. Search the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency for programs in your area.
Natural gas backup systems: cost and sustainability
Solar water heaters almost always require a backup system for cloudy days and times of increased demand, and natural gas is typically the most cost-effective option.
The DOE estimates that a typical solar energy system with gas backup costs nearly 20% less to operate than an electric system of similar size. Remember that costs may vary depending on system size, type and energy prices.
Natural gas is also a clean burning, emitting far less greenhouse gases than the generation of electricity. For economical, sustainable and reliable hot water, solar units with gas backup are the natural choice.
Pensacola Energy offers a $200 rebate when installing a solar water heating system with a tank or tankless natural gas water heater. To learn more, call 850-436-5050 or or visit PensacolaEnergy.com.