You've got questions...  Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about solar water heating.

How much does it cost to heat water with my electric water heater?

• About 18-30% of your power bill goes towards water heating.

How much will I save with a solar water heater?

• A solar water heater can cover between 75-100% of your hot water needs.  Average return on investments are between 3-5 years.

What incentives are available to install a solar water heater?

• The U.S. Government offers a 30% Tax Credit up to $2,000
• Local, State, and Utility incentives can be found at The Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
• http://www.dsireusa.org/

Can I install the system myself?

• For most situations this is not a do-it-yourself project.  In most states you need a licensed Solar Contractor or Plumbing Contractor.

Will I ever run out of hot water?

• No, the tanks are equipped with an electrical back-up heating element that will supplement the system when the sun is unable to provide enough heat.

How long will it last?

• Most systems will last 20 to 30 years.  There are many solar water heaters still in operation from the energy crisis of the 1970's.

What are the environmental benefits of a solar water heater?

• The average American home (using an electric water heater) will consume as many barrels of oil (11.4) per year as the average American car.  So converting an electric water heater to a solar water heater is the equivalent of permanently removing one car off the road.

 Will it blow away during a storm or hurricane?

• Not if properly installed.  Solar collectors are engineered to withstand the wind load requirements of the 2004 Florida Building Code.  Check with your contractor to ensure that he or she is using equipment that will meet or exceed your local wind load requirements.

Will a solar water heater work on a cloudy or cool day?

• Yes.  Solar collectors are sealed to produce the greenhouse effect which will collect and transfer as much of the sun's energy as possible.

How much space will it take up on the roof?

• Many homes will only require one solar collector, which can be 4'x8' (32 sq ft) or 4'x10' (40 sq ft).  Larger homes may require 2 solar collectors which would take up about 64 to 80 sq ft.  The panels look similar to a skylight.

How long does it take to install?

• In most cases it is a one day job.

I cannot put a solar panel on my south-facing roof.  Can I still use solar water heating?

• Yes, your contractor will advise you of the best spot on your roof for year round performance.  This could be on the east, west, or even north side of your home.

Does a solar water heater require any maintenance?

• Very little, maybe an hour every 5 years.  All water heaters should have a few gallons drained from the bottom of the tank to purge sediment that will naturally accumulate.

Is it possible to have a ground mounted system?

• Yes.  Check with your installer to see if you have the proper location.

Why doesn't everyone have a solar water heater?

• In many countries solar water heaters are common place and the preferred method of water heating.  In Israel about 90% of the homes and businesses use solar water heating.  Other countries such as Germany and China are world leaders for manufacturing and installing solar water heaters.  Temperate climates such as Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa have been using solar water heating for hundreds of years.  Half the population of Miami used solar water heating by 1941.  And 80% of the homes built in south Florida between 1937 and 1941 were equipped with solar water heaters.

Are there any other opportunities to use solar water heating in my home?

• Yes.  It can be used for radiant floor heating, space heating, or pool and spa heating.