Solar Hot Water Heating - What You Need to Know

Solar hot water heaters do not emit pollutants into the air. For those of us who have a concern about the environment and the space around us; this is good news.

Having been born and raised in central Oregon, I did not become aware of how truly nice and efficient the use of a solar hot water heater was until the military transferred my husband to Sacramento, California two years ago. I have since learned a lot about having a solar hot water heater. I hope that I never have to go back to using a conventional one.

The use of a solar hot water heater will drastically lower your electric bills, because electricity is not used to heat the water. After the initial cost of the solar unit, you will find that heating your water with a solar unit will save a lot of money.

The use of a solar hot water heater is so much better for the environment than heating the water for your home in any other way. Solar energy preserves fossil fuel resources, and reduces air pollution. Solar hot water heaters us the energy from the sun to heat water and is then stored until it is needed.

According to Redwood Coast Energy Authority - Solar Works Guide - "When an average solar hot water syste replaces a convential electric hot water heater, the electricity saved over 20 years represents a reduction of more than 50 tons of greenhouse gases. That significantly reduces the environmental impact of our domestic activities." I highly recommend you give this site a try. If you are new to the use of a solar hot water heater like I was; there is much to learn. It is http://www.redwoodenergy.org/solarworksguide/alternate_site/hw_frameset1.htm.

There can be tax cuts and rebates that give an incentive to installing a solar hot water system. You can find out from a local retailer what incentives your state offers. In Oregon a 56 foot solar water heater can cost about $7500, but with federal and state incentives of $3,300 the cost is greatly reduced. Plus, on top of that savings, you have the savings from your monthly utility bill as well.

While we are on the subject of solar hot water heaters, don't forget about solar hot water heaters while camping. You can purchase these at most retail stores that sell camping equipment. They are basically heavy, black vinyl bags that you fill with water; hang them up and let the sun warm the water inside. My husband and I have used these for years, and really like them. In fact, we have one that we use to heat water for doing dishes while camping. The water does not get real hot, but hot enough for a quick shower, or clean dishes. Just another quick tip for going green!