Solar Powered Water Heater
Why go on it?

The Benefits of Solar Powered Water Heaters

An average 4 persons US home consumes 5,000 KWh annually on heating water reflected in a monthly bill of $50 to $100. A monthly energy bill is also attached to the alternatives, oil-operated or gas-operated water heaters. The initial investment in a solar water heater can run between $2,000 and $4,000, it depends on the size of system and the type of the syste. This is the gross investment, however there is a federal tax rebate of 30% and in many states there are more rebates and incentives. California would launch a massive solar water heating incentives program, creating a $250 million fund to provide rebates to homeowners and businesses who invest in solar water heating technologies.

With a payback period of less than 4 years, this is probably the best clean energy investment compared to any other investment. The life expectancy of a solar water system is more than 15 years with a very low maintenance, therefore more than 10 years of free, no energy cost can be safely assumed. And, energy cost will undoubtedly go up in years to come

solar water heater reduces Pollution and Carbon Dioxide emission

A conventional hot water heater pollutes and release Carbon Dioxide as much as a family car does. Apparently, electric-operated water heater is “clean”, the utility power plant however is likely operated on coal. Coal mining, transportation and burning are polluting and they release carbon dioxide
In contrast, a solar water heater doesn't pollute and doesn't release CO2

A personal note on water heaters

I share my time between Israel and California, weather conditions and sun conditions are similar. In Israel, you see solar water heaters on most homes and condos. On my last trip to California, I did not see many. Apparently, from 30 million US households that potentially can install solar heater only a mere 2 millions did so. One reason might be local zoning and building codes and the need for permits in certain counties. The best is to contact a local certified Solar Contractor to visit your site and submit you a proposal