Understanding Solar Hot Water

I just uploaded a video to my YouTube channel about understanding solar hot water, the economics, the installations, and extra information about solar hot water. Also known as solar thermal, this type of solar power involves heating water to high temperatures to save energy costs.



As a certified solar installer in the United States, I have installed many solar hot water systems and have found these type of systems to be the most efficient in terms of design, installation, and receiving a return on your investment.



The average cost of a solar hot water system for a residential home is about $3,500 to $5,500. Most come in around $4,500. Once the customer has the solar hot water system turned on and it is active, they will qualify for a 30% Federal Tax Credit. Once this 30% Federal Tax Credit is used, the solar system's Return on Investment (ROI) is less than 5 years for the average residential home. A solar hot water system is designed to last 25+ years, with many last more than 30+ years.



Solar hot water systems last so long that the biggest hurdle is cutting trees down that block the solar panels, in some cases trees that didn't even exist when the solar system was installed. This is how long solar hot water systems can last!



This video also discussed more of the economics, design and implementation, engineering, and cost numbers. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment and I will do my  best to answer any questions.



Video is narrated by solar engineer Eric Layton, recorded November 2014.

1.9 MW Solar Concept Render Car Ports in Florida

New concept render that I made for a 100% solar powered car port project. Over 40 car ports in this project in Florida.



-Eric Layton