subject: Best Seattle Solar Water Heating [print this page] This article will answer the following kinds of questions about selecting and installing a solar water heating system in Seattle.
1. How does a solar water heater work?
2. Does Seattle get enough sun to power a solar water heater?
3. Can you rely on solar energy to produce enough hot water all the time?
4. What are the main benefits of going solar?
5. Is solar water heating cost-effective?
6. Are there rebates or tax incentives for going solar in Washington state?
Most of us were raised on hot water systems that were powered by electricity, natural gas or oil, and we take for granted having to buy fuel to heat water for our homes and businesses.
Why not consider solar water heating, where the fuel is free! Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about solar systems.
QWhat is solar water heating?
ASolar hot water systems use the direct heat and energy of the sun to heat water. No electricity is generated in this process (unlike a photovoltaic or PV solar system), it's just straight heat and energy from the sun that feeds into your water heater.
QHow do solar water heating systems work?
ASolar water heating systems have two main elements: storage tanks and solar collectors, and either one-tank or two-tank systems are available. In one-tank systems, heat is collected from the sun in the same tank where the water will be stored for use. In two-tank systems, the collector tank preheats water or another liquid before it transfers heat into the conventional water heater.
QWhat different types are available?
AThere are two types of solar water heating systems: active systems which have circulating pumps and controls, while passive systems rely on gravity or syphoning to move the heated water to where it is needed.
QCan I use solar energy to heat my swimming pool?
AYes! The technology used is slightly different than for home use, but solar swimming pool systems are available.
QWill solar water heating always provide enough hot water for our needs?
AYes. Most systems have a built-in backup system for times when the weather is cold and cloudy or you're using more hot water than usual. Typically they are connected to an energy source such as gas or electricity that is activated when the water temperature falls below a minimum temperature that you set.
QIf I have to use back-up energy sometimes, is this kind of system worth installing in a rainy climate like Seattle?
AGermany is the current world leader in solar installations and they have even less sun than Seattle, so yes! And Seattle gets a "Good" rating from FindSolar.com.
QHow much does a solar water heating system cost?
ABetween $6,000 and $8,000.
QIs a solar water heating system right for everyone?
ANo. You need to own your home, have a good quality roof that gets full sun, and be willing to make a long-term investment so that you're sure to recover the costs of installing the system.
8 reasons you should consider investing in a solar water heating system:
1.The fuel is free!
2.You are protected against rising energy costs.
3.By moving away from fossil fuels and the greenhouse gases they emit, you are reducing your "carbon footprint" and helping to protect the environment.
4.It will increase the value of your home.
5.It can pay for itself in as little as eight years through fuel cost-savings. And once it's paid for, you're getting free hot water!
6.There is no sales tax charged in Washington State until 2011.
7.It's eligible for a federal tax credit equal to 30% of the system cost.
8.Maintenance on simple systems can be as infrequent as every 3-5 years.
How to choose the right system:
When selecting a solar water heating system, keep these factors in mind:
oMake sure the overall economics work for your situation.
oInvestigate the system's energy efficiency.
oEvaluate how much solar energy you'll get on your site.
oCalculate the best system size for your needs.
oFamiliarize yourself with regulations, building codes and covenants in your area to make sure you'll be in compliance.
Factors to consider when selecting a contractor or installer:
1.Are they experienced in dealing with solar water heating systems?
2.Can they provide references or testimonials from previous jobs? There's nothing better than concrete proof from previous customers to demonstrate that a company knows what they're doing and are there to take good care of you.
3.Are they licensed or certified?
4.Have you gotten several quotes for the job so you can be sure you're getting a good deal?
There's a lot more to explore about solar water heating, so here are some links to help you find out everything you need to know.
Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_water_heating. A good overview and lots of detailed technical information.
SolarEstimate.org: http://www.solar-estimate.org/ An excellent information resource and some useful tools to help you calculate costs and system requirements for your particular circumstances and solar conditions. And they even offer an iPhone app!
U.S. Department of Energy EERA: http://www.energysavers.gov/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12850 A U.S. government site on solar water heating. There's lots of good information here, as well as Product Information Resources in the right-hand column.
