Conservation Concepts has been the leader in conservation products in Central PA since 1980, devoted to offering Solar Solutions by harnessing the sun’s energy for your home or business. Using the sun’s considerable power provides a sustainable source of clean energy. By installing a Solar Hot Water Heater, you will significantly reduce the carbon emissions caused by burning fossil fuels.
As energy prices continue to rise, and environmental concerns rise high on the nation’s agenda, savvy homeowners are on the lookout for alternative energy sources. Solar water heating systems are low-risk investments with an ever-increasing rate of return. Any product that uses solar energy in your home is not an expense; it is a value added amenity of your real estate property.
You may be wondering how exactly a solar heater works and how it can benefit you. A solar water heater uses the sun’s energy to pre-heat water before it enters the conventional gas (or electric) water heater. Water heated by the sun can reach temperatures exceeding 212 degrees Fahrenheit, but the normal temperature for household use is only 120 to 130 degrees.
Active vs. Passive Solar Heating
There are different types of solar hot water systems that you should be aware of. They are divided into two types of systems, Active or Passive: active solar systems rely upon moving mechanical parts in order to transport heat, while passive units simply use the sun to accomplish this action. The bulk of the systems installed in the United States are active because they are considered to be more efficient and attractive. All Velux solar water heaters are active solar systems.
Velux solar water heating systems, proven for years in Europe, are designed to perform well for more than 20 years. They incorporate the same engineered flashing systems that have been used by builders in the U.S. to install Velux roof windows and are trusted to avoid leaks. To ensure optimal performance and service life of Velux solar water heaters, they must be installed by a Velux authorized solar water heating dealer/installer.
Solar Water Heater Sizes
There are two basic sixes of Velux solar water heaters. A two collector/80 gallon system will typically replace a conventional 40-to-50 gallon residential tank water heater. A three collector/120 gallon system will typically replace a 75-to-80 gallon residential tank water heater. Velux solar water systems can also work with, or in addition to, a conventional tank water heater to provide additional hot water capacity. A residential solar water heating system uses two or three solar collectors on the roof. These are approximately 4.5’x6’ each and are best placed on a south-facing roof. The storage tank will fit inside a 30” pan under an 8’ ceiling. This is best located near and under the collectors, but can be located up to 60’ from the collectors.
Save Money with Solar Heating
How cost effective is a solar water heater? On average, your water heating bills should drop 50-80%. Solar energy can be produced even at low temperatures. Also, because the sun is free, you’re protected from future fuel shortages and price hikes. Other financial incentives include year-round availability and federal tax credits; they can help pay for 30% of the system’s cost (up to $2,000!) Between tax credits and energy savings, our Velux Solar Water Heating system offers a faster return on your investment than other solar energy systems.
Call Conservation Concepts today at 1-800-755-2405 for a free on-site evaluation!
