Six advantages of a solar hot water system

Anyone looking for an alternative to gas or electric power when it comes to operating their water system can benefit from using solar power. However, it is important to understand that the solar panels used for a water system are different from typical solar panels. For instance, although the panels are also installed on the home’s roof, they do not convert the sun’s energy into electricity. Instead, the solar panels actually trap the heat energy. This trapped energy is then readily available to heat your water. The resultant hot water is then stored until it is needed.

Understanding the many benefits of utilizing a water system powered by solar energy can help you decide if this type of system is for you.

1. Savings

Using solar energy to heat your water can reduce your annual costs by 85 percent. Additionally, you can enjoy an average savings of $200 per year on your electricity bill. In fact, larger families save even more. For instance, a family of four can save up to $920 per year on their utility bills. Such savings can then be applied to other expenses. For instance, you can pay more towards your mortgage. Furthermore, there are many incentives and rebates available that can help to significantly reduce your up-front costs.

Finally, over the lifetime of the system, the average cost to operate the system is significantly cheaper than the costs associated with a water system powered by electricity.

2. Environmentally friendly

Whether your current system utilizes gas or electricity, you are utilizing non-renewable energy. For instance, natural gas is a fossil fuel. Similarly, if you use electricity to heat your hot water, that energy is most likely generated from fossil fuels. Additionally, every time a fossil fuel is a use, greenhouse gasses are released.

Conversely, the sun provides renewable energy. Using this type of energy reduces the need to burn fossil fuels. In turn, there is a reduction in the emission of harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In fact, using solar energy to heat your water can reduce emissions by 30 percent. In doing so, some theorize these systems can help limit global warming.

3. Low maintenance

Another great advantage of a water system powered by solar energy is the incredibly low maintenance requirements. For instance, one of the only recommendations is to replace your system’s antifreeze and have a professional inspect the system every few years. In addition, if you keep your system maintained, you can reasonably expect it to provide you with free hot water for more than 20 years. Finally, when you do need someone to inspect your water system, all you need to do is conduct an online search of “Brisbane new hot water plumbers” to locate a professional.

4. Takes up less space

Many people may be turned off by the need to place rather large solar panels on their roof to enjoy the benefits of solar energy. However, houses typically require only two or three small panels. The reason so few panels are required is due to the fact that solar panels used for heating water are very efficient at converting the sun’s energy. In fact, they easily convert up to 80 percent of the energy emitted by the sun.

5. Increase in home value

It is becoming common for homebuyers to search for homes that have systems based on renewable energy because they know just how much money such systems can save. In fact, research has shown that homes with a solar system are worth four percent more than homes with traditional electric or gas heat.

Furthermore, many financial institutions now offer prospective home buyers reduced interest rates when purchasing a home that has a water system powered by solar energy. Additionally, if you are in the market to sell your home, such a system can make your home much more popular and potentially reduce the time it is on the market.Read about  pop up canopy.

6. Financial incentives

If you install a water system powered by solar energy, you may be eligible for a rebate. For instance, the Australian government offers renewable energy certificates (RECs). The RECs can provide homeowners anywhere between $500 and $1,000 for the average system. This rebate helps to significantly reduce the cost of installation and is either enjoyed when purchased or available via a cash-back arrangement.