Solar Hot Water: A Good Deal that Keeps Getting Better [View All]

[OKIsItJustMe]

http://www.motherearthnews.com/Renewable-Energy/2007-02-01/Solar-Hot-Water-A-Good-Deal-that-Keeps-Getting-Better.aspx

Solar Hot Water: A Good Deal that Keeps Getting Better

Bob Ramlow

The typical American household spends 15 percent to 20 percent of its total energy outlay to make sure the 'H' tap means what it says. That same household can save thousands of dollars over the next 40 years by installing a solar water-heating system.

It costs more to install the solar water heating system, compared to a conventional gas or electric heater, but your home equity will increase instantly, frequently enough to offset installation costs. And it's so much less expensive to operate the solar heater that, at some point, you'll make up the initial difference. At the same time, you'll save more money every time electric or gas rates go up. Many homeowners recover the initial installation expense within a few years. Experts agree, a solar water heater is the easiest initial investment in renewable energy.

Several kinds of solar water heaters exist, and the choice depends primarily on your climate. They all do the same things: gather heat in a solar collector; transfer the heat to the water supply; and store the heated water until it's used. They use simple, proven technology—one reason they're a best bet in renewable energy.

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