Solar Hot Water Heaters

How a solar water heater works

1. Water travels in pipes through solar collectors (typically installed on your roof), where it is heated by the sun.
2. Then the water is returned to the hot water storage tank, ready for use in the kitchen, bath or laundry room.
3. A backup heating element is in the tank, so you’ll have plenty of hot water, no matter what the weather.

+ Customers are required to purchase a new solar water heater to be eligible for the credits and rebates. Participation in the EnergyWise program is required for the Progress Energy rebate.
* Maximum credit includes enrollment of pool pump in the EnergyWise program.
** Federal tax credits are currently available through Dec. 31, 2016. State rebates may also be available.

Typical Savings

A typical solar system saves anywhere from 70% to as much as 90% of the total amount spent on heating water for home needs. The average person uses $15 to $20 per month in hot water. An average household of 3 - 5 spends approximately $40 to as much as $100 per month in electricity for hot water heating purposes. These figures are conservative as long showers, lots of clothes washing, and dishes can push water heating cost even higher and savings can be even higher.

Basic Operation

Today's solar water heating system consists of a large storage tank, a solar collector mounted on the roof and a small pump operated by an electronic control. When the temperature on the roof inside the solar panel is warmer than the bottom of the storage tank, the electronic control sends power to the pump and the warmer water in the solar panel is pumped into the tank. The storage tank holds the heated water for household usage. Storage tank sizes are determined by the size and hot water requirements of the household it is to serve.

Learn more and take a free online solar assessment here.

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