3 Benefits of a Solar Water Heater
Solar energy has been in the craze for several years. Solar cars and solar panels for homes top the list of common uses for solar energy, but there are also numerous other electrical devices that can use sunlight to power them. Lights, cellphones, tablets—the list goes on when it comes to what can use a solar system. Something that every homeowner should know is that a solar water heating system exists. This solar water heating system has several of the same benefits as other solar systems. Here are a few reasons why you should consider one.
1. Quality
In the United States, many people still strive for the American dream. Though it’s changed over the years, becoming a homeowner still headlines most lists. It doesn’t stop there, though. A modern home fully equipped with the latest technologies is a must. A solar water heater brings an appliance into your house the is simply high-quality. Make sure you have a quality mechanical engineer like the ones at Climate Master Mechanical to install your system, though. Whether it’s maintenance for an existing unit or something for a new single-family dwelling, working with a qualified technician is key to the longevity of your system.
It’s not just the solar hot water system that is quality, however. Using a solar water heater also helps to protect water quality. This is mainly due to the energy being produced in a safe, non-polluting way. Typically, energy to power a regular water heater comes from a power plant. Sadly, these facilities are a common reason toxic metals like mercury are being released into our nation’s water supply. This can be applied to air quality as well. A solar water heater helps reduce your carbon footprint. Whenever you can use something that harnesses the sun’s thermal energy, you are reducing the need to use natural gas, coal, or other means.
2. Climate
Though you might not be a “tree-hugger,” playing your part to help the community around you is important for anyone who wants to be a good citizen. Since a water heater can account for anywhere between 15-20% of a home’s energy usage in a year, it’s no surprise that using a solar heater can have a big impact. This is especially true if you live in a cold climate. People living in more northern regions tend to take warmer showers and use hot water more often. In the north, there’s also a concern that their solar water heater system will fail without the sun. It’s true that without solar energy the system won’t charge. However, most of these systems have a backup way of powering them when the sun isn’t accessible. Any amount of reduction in fossil fuels helps the climate.
3. Cash
The third major benefit of a solar water heating system is your monthly savings. Generally, a standard solar water heater can pay for itself within four to eight years from the money you’ll save paying the electric company. Savings aren’t just from your electric bill, either. Governments have incentivized using renewable energy sources and often offer a tax advantage for using one. This means you will often be able to write off some expenses accrued by having the system installed. There tend to be rebates and other offers as well that can help to mitigate any financial burden and often result in savings for you.
Additionally, a home with a solar water heater will be valued higher when compared to other similar single-family dwellings. When an appraiser in the United States visits a home that is to be evaluated, they take into consideration what sort of upgrades a homeowner has undertaken to the property. By improving your existing water tank, you can save money on your bills, you often improve your tax return, and you increase your home’s valuation.