Solar water heating systems are considered to be “the world’s most efficient household appliance.” Each month hot water costs about $18.00 per person in a household. For a family of 2, a solar water heating system can provide about 90% of the hot water needed. A solar water heater can produce about 80% of the hot water required for a family of 4.
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Is a Solar Water Heating System right for my home or business?
Direct sunlight is required to efficiently heat solar hot water collectors. An area on your roof that is unshaded between 9 am and 3 pm works best. Solar water heating collectors are not as sensitive to shading as solar electric (PV) panels, but it is important to recognize shading from trees or surrounding buildings and houses. We will help you determine the best location for your solar water heating collector to ensure maximum efficiency.
What size should my Solar Hot Water System be?
Solar energy professionals from the FL Green Team will help you select a solar water heating system that is properly sized for your home or business’ needs. A small solar water heating system with 50-60 gallons of storage is typically used for a household of 2-3 people. A household with 3 or more residents will require a tank holding 80 to 120 gallons. Depending on the number of people in your home, water conservation efforts and daily habits these number can vary. On a cloudy day, the solar water heating system will use any available sunshine to help meet the hot water demand and the rest will come from you electric water heater.
What Rebates or Incentives are available for Solar Water Heating Systems?
FPL is currently offering homeowners $1,000 to replace their existing gas or electric water heater with a solar water heating system. Business owners can receive up to $50,000 for the installation of solar water heating equipment. The FPL Solar Rebate program has limited funds, so you must act quickly.
The Federal Government offers a 30% tax credit on the cost of an installed solar water heating system or solar electric system. Learn the details of the solar rebate by visiting Energy Star.
To learn more about solar water heating systems or to schedule an appointment, please contact the FL Green Team today!
The goal of the FL Green Team is to provide members of the Southwest Florida community with information to make their home more energy efficiency, comfortable and healthy through education, energy upgrades and innovative testing.