When we consider having solar power installed in our homes
, we often imagine a crisp array of dark blue panels fixed neatly to the roof, paying the electricity bill. But solar electricity is not the only way we can use solar energy in our homes.
While those panels can cost an arm and a leg without extensive government rebates, an equally important path to saving money is to install a solar hot water heater.
The benefits of such an installation are many. The most noticeable and immediate effect will be a significant reduction in your energy bill. Regardless of whether your current water heater uses gas, oil or electricity, getting a solar unit installed will slash the amount of energy needed to provide you with hot water.
There are other benefits too. By reducing your energy usage you are having less of an impact on the environment, and the solar unit will marginally improve the value of your home. Also, these systems work effectively in virtually any climate and latitude. Add to this the fact that it's very likely you'll be able to secure a rebate or grant to help with the installation cost and we can see there are lots of reasons to go solar for your hot water supply and none against.
There are of course many different types of systems to choose from. Active systems use a pump to move water through the heating tubes from the main tank. Passive systems do not use a pump, but rather rely on the fact that cold water is denser than hot water to push the fluid around the system. While this means less moving parts, passive systems require the tank to be positioned above the panels which may not always be practical.
If you're living in a cold climate prone to frost you'll need a system that has a heat exchanger built in. This is because the panels will have a kind of anti-freeze running through them rather than water. Such a unit may cost more than others.
Be prepared to shop around to get the best deal. Most installers are willing to come to your home to give you an accurate quote and will also let you know what system is best for you. By getting several such quotes you will be able to determine what you should be paying and what system you want. The more quotes you get the better a deal you will end up with.