How To Buy A Solar Water Heater? Everything You Need To Know And Consider Before Your Selection And Purchase 2022

According to EnergyStar, below are tips for buying a solar water heater:

Also, check out my Info on how to File for the Solar Water Heater Tax Rebate as well as the Official Energy Star List of Solar Water Heaters

What Else Should I Look For When Buying A Solar Water Heater?

If you are interested in an ENERGY STAR qualified solar water heater for your home, consider the following before you buy.

Determine If Your Site Is Suitable.

 Most solar water heating systems are installed on the roof. For best results, your roof should:

Receive direct sunlight between the hours of 10 AM and 4 PM year-round

Face South (within 15°)

Be sturdy with the shingles in good condition
If your roof isn’t appropriate for a solar water heater, but you have suitable unshaded land next to your home, you may want to consider a ground-mounted system instead.

Decide What Type Of System Meets Your Needs And Lifestyle. 

A solar water heater contractor will help you determine what type and size system best suits your needs. Take the following steps so you can have informed discussions with contractors during the purchasing process:

Use the Product List to find qualified models for consideration.

Understand how solar water heaters work so you can discuss which collector type and circulation system make the most sense for you.

Protect against freezing in colder climates. Some solar systems are appropriate for freezing climates, while others are not.

As a general rule, if there is a good chance that temperatures will fall below 42°F, choose either a closed-loop system with antifreeze as the heat transfer fluid or a system that automatically drains back when temperatures fall too low for comfort. Steer clear of batch systems if you live in a climate with distinct winters. Learn more about freeze protection.

Estimate the capacity you’ll need. Use the gallon capacity of your current water heater as a starting point. You can find your current water heater’s capacity or volume on its nameplate or yellow Energy Guide sticker.

This should help you discuss the sizing of your solar system with contractors. If you have recently added or are planning to add more occupants to your household or a new shower, faucet, dishwasher, or washer that will be in frequent use, take that into account in your discussions.

Contact A Solar Contractor Or Manufacturer. 

Ideally, you will find a local contractor who can assess your site, provide recommendations, install a system, and then perform periodic maintenance.

Installing a solar water heater on an existing home requires careful installation, which often includes running pipes through walls. Use a contractor certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP)  if possible. When choosing a contractor you should also:

Request cost estimates in writing.

Ask for references.

Check the company with your local Better Business Bureau.

See if the company will obtain a local permit if necessary and understands local residential building codes and other regulations.

Search For Rebates And Utilize Tax Credits.

 You may be able to reduce your costs by taking advantage of rebates or tax credits. Be sure to review the eligibility rules before you make your purchase.

Use the Special Deals Finder
Determine whether there are rebates available for ENERGY STAR qualified water heaters in your zip code.

Utilize the Federal tax credits
Every ENERGY STAR qualified solar water heater will qualify for a Federal tax credit equal to 30% of the system’s installed cost.

Don’t Forget About Maintenance. 

After installing a solar system, it is important to perform periodic maintenance to ensure efficient operation. In addition to hiring a qualified contractor for annual maintenance inspections, you should periodically check the following: On the roof or ground, depending on installation:

The collector is clean and not shaded

The collector is sound, sealing and glazing are not cracked or yellowing

Fasteners connecting the collector to the roof are sound

Piping and wiring are well-connected, well-insulated, and without damage

Roof penetrations are well-sealed

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