How Much Does a Solar Water Heater Cost?
Solar is fast proving to be one of the most desirable forms of renewable energy available today, and a solar water heater provides the perfect start if you are ready to "go green". Solar paneling's price and the equipment associated with it has dropped significantly in recent years, and with several governmental incentives and rebates, more households are able to afford it than ever before.
Solar can cut, or completely eliminate, the cost of utility bills when installed properly with enough paneling utilized. For homes looking to save on their water consumption and heating while not completely switching over to a full solar panel setup, a solar water heater offers an exceptional opportunity. However, before moving forward with a solar water heater installation, it is necessary to determine how much it might cost in your region.
How Much Does It Cost To Install a Solar Water Heater?
When it comes to a household that wants to calculate the cost to install a solar water heater, it is necessary to know all the ins and outs of possible expenses. Some of the costs to look prepare for includes:
- necessary permits
- equipment
- locationF
- additional features
Permits
Permits for solar water heater installation vary, not only from town to town, but neighborhood to neighborhood. This typically only consists of a one-time payment and filling out a few forms. However, depending on the neighborhood, the Homeowner's Association (HOA) might need to sign off on the installation. Some associations are very strict with what can and can not be installed on a home. Even if the HOA allows the installation, it might cost additional money to receive approval.
Solar is the most accessible renewable energy available to homeowners, and governments around the world have reviewed their energy policies to accommodate and favor the transition to renewable energy for home and business owner. There has never been a better time to convert. A solar water heater installation contractor is going to obtain permits from the local city government on your behalf and ensure the installation is done according to code.
Equipment
A good amount of equipment goes into the solar water heater installation. First, there is the support structure for the solar collector paneling. A liquid handling unit, such as the water pump designed to move water between the collector and a storage tank, is also required. Beyond this, there are several other pieces of the puzzle, including:
- all of the traditional valves
- thermal expansion tanks
- strainers
- controller which activates the circulator when heat is available
The solar collector must be installed and all the needed carpentry. Sometimes, the additional carpentry might need additional permits and coding for approval. Each of these pieces of equipment can come at a slight variable and can often range anywhere from $6,000 all the way up to $17,000 to install. The average price most American homeowners end up paying is around $11,500. Of course, there are many variables to consider, so looking over the complete expense report is necessary before if you want to avoid any financial surprises.
Location
Depending on where the home is located, freeze protection fluid may be compulsory in order to prevent pipes from freezing during cold winter months of the year. This will also add to the overall cost to install a water heater.
Additional Features
Like just about anything else installed on your house, there are added features to consider. When you decide to invest in a solar water heater, which not only helps save on utility bills but boosts the home's value, looking at these additional features is a wise idea. First, ensure there is a backup hot water system. This way, if there are extended days of overcast sky, the backup tank can maintain a comfortable water temperature. A flat plate collecting system is good if a swimming pool is to be connected with the water heater too. Beyond all of this, water tank size and storage tanks play a final determining role in the overall cost of the installation.
A solar water heater offers an excellent return on investment. While more expensive than a traditional water heater, it provides homeowners with the opportunity to eventually pay back the cost of the heater and continue saving money on their energy bills each and every year. Before moving forward with your solar water heater installation project, be sure to compare several quotes from reputable contractors in your locale. This is the only way to ensure you get the best deal possible.
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