How much does a solar hot water system cost?

The average cost of the systems range from between $5,500 to $7,000, and will depend largely upon the following factors:

1. Number of people in the home or building
2. Size and type of solar system
3. Roof type
4. Building code requirements

Will the solar system affect my hot water heater?

Yes – in a positive way! Given that the water heater will operate less frequently, solar will extend its life significantly.

Is there a tax credit for solar hot water systems?

You may receive a 30% tax credit (with certified equipment).

A taxpayer may claim a credit of 30% of qualified expenditures for a system that serves a dwelling unit located in the United States that is owned and used as a residence by the taxpayer. The home served by the system does not have to be the taxpayer’s principal residence. The tax credit does not apply to solar water-heating property for swimming pools or hot tubs.  Expenditures may include labor costs for on-site preparation, assembly or original system installation, and for piping or wiring to interconnect a system to the home. If the federal tax credit exceeds tax liability, the excess amount may be carried forward to the succeeding taxable year.

For more information, please visit http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f5695.pdf or consult with your tax professional.

What about maintenance?

The simplicity of solar water heating systems means that maintenance is minimal. Required maintenance will depend on what type of system you own. Vasco Solar Energy hot water systems require almost no maintenance.

How do solar water heaters work?

In a solar water heating system, a heat-transfer fluid flows through the tubes of solar collectors, where it is heated and transfers the heat to the household water. The heated water is then stored for use in a tank. A solar water heating system can be used as the sole source for hot water or may include a back-up conventional system to meet heavy or unusual hot water requirements throughout the year. Systems are usually sized according to the number of bedrooms, people and household water needs.