Solar Water Heaters, Are They the Right Choice?

2009-06-23T08:39:00.000-07:00

There is a lot of questioning if solar water heaters may be worth it. The great thing is that these can be used anywhere and in any climate. Here are some things you might want to know about solar water heaters before you buy on any heating specials.

Solar water heaters are great and innovated because it eliminates the cost of electric heaters or gas. The heater has solar panels in it that soak up the energy of the sun to heat the water in your home. These panels will usually be set on ones roof to better absorb the sunlight before sending it to your conventional heater.

There are two main types of solar water heaters, active and passive. The active solar water heater has circulating pumps and controls, while the passive solar water heater is without. It is also important to know the difference between the two tank and the one tank system.

The two tank system is very convenient because while one tank is being used, the other tank is being heated by the solar heaters before it is deposited into the conventional water heater.

The one tank system is sort of like a two in one. It has both the back up heater as well as the solar storage.

One thing that might detour someone from purchasing solar water heaters is the price. This really shouldn’t be something to be scared about. You will actually be saving money in the long run.

Water heaters usually are in the rage of $300 to $2,000, while solar water heaters are between $1,500 and $3,500. But with a regular water heater you’ll be paying continuously for the gas or electricity. With solar water heaters you don’t pay for it to function so within a few years you’ll have it paid off with the money you’re saving in utility bills.

There are currently more around a million and a half solar water heaters being used in the United States right now. Because of the access that most homes have to sunlight here in the United States, the facts show that the number could potentially be more around 30 million. Even in the Salt Lake City area, as well as other cities throughout Utah, solar power could be a great advantage over regular water heaters.

Even if you don’t consider yourself a follower of the ‘green movement’, this is a wise choice for anyone to make. Just remember that as long as you have a solar water heater you won’t be paying a dime to warm up your water.

When is it time to replace my water heater?

2009-03-24T11:41:00.000-07:00

There are a few indicators or factors when deciding if it is time to replace your water heater. Some common indicators are: Calcium buildup can form at the bottom of your tank resulting in a crackling noise when the burners light. Thermostats can act up or fail entirely. A broken dip tube can blend incoming cold water with the outgoing hot water. Unrestrained thermal expansion can cause dangerous pressure levels and ruptured pipes. These in conjunction with other less common troubles can cause a loss of hot water, abnormal hot water, or harm to the plumbing.

In conjunction with these factors, age of the water heater should be considered. On average, water heaters last around 10 years although is not unheard of to have a water heater go out after only a few years. If your water heater is over 10 years old and you are experiencing one or more of these issues or if it is leaking and you can only get one hot shower before the water starts getting cold, you should contact a local water heater professional to give you your options. Make sure you are an active participant when determining whether you repair or replace your water heater. Be aware of how much the fix will cost, vs. how much it will cost to replace the water heater, and how long you can expect your old water heater to last once the repair is finished.

Action Water Heater

Solar Water Heaters, Are They the Right Choice?

When is it time to replace my water heater?