How Long Do Solar Water Heaters Last?
Quality solar hot water systems can last for up to 20 years, compared to just around 10 years for gas and electric water heaters. In addition, you can save energy worth around $3,000 to $5,000 in the solar water heater’s lifetime.
About solar water heaters
Although they’re designed to be used with gas and electric systems, solar hot water heaters can cut your water heating energy costs by half. Further, it can also cut your carbon dioxide emissions by half, which is why solar water heaters are considered as an environment-friendly option.
Although solar water heaters cost more upfront, the monthly and long-term energy savings can offset that added cost. In just two to four years you can get the payback and start enjoying the monthly energy savings and ROI.
Each month you can save hundreds of dollars in energy bills. Your monthly savings may depend on the following:
- Your system’s energy efficiency
- The amount of hot water you use
- Your site’s geographic location, climate and amount of sunlight being received
- Available incentives and financing (our government provides incentives to further encourage us to go solar)
It helps if you consult a hot water professional first before you choose a solar hot water system. It also helps to know first if this is a practical option given your site’s location and climate. For instance, if your area doesn’t receive too much sun, you won’t get the most out of your solar water heater.
About the costs, the price range for solar water heaters is often around $4,000 to $8,000 (with full installation), compared to gas and electric water heater’s $1,500. Solar water heaters are a lot more expensive upfront (almost 3 to 6 times compared to gas and electric), but as mentioned earlier, the payback could just be in 2 to 4 years. That’s because your annual water heating costs might be cut in half once you start using solar hot water.
Still, it’s good to consult a hot water professional about the real savings you might get. This way, you’ll have a more accurate idea whether a solar water heater is suitable for your location and requirements.