While we suffer through severe drought here on the west coast, a helpful option for using less water in greater comfort is the increasingly popular solar-powered heat pump water heater. Other names for it are Energy Star water heater or high-efficiency water heater. Instead of using gas (or a limited generator) to warm the water, the new heaters act quickly, reducing the flow needed to reach warmth, while using free electricity derived from solar.
Conventional vs. Solar-Powered Water Heaters
Conventional water heaters account for up to a quarter of a home’s electrical demand, but we’ve come a long way in applying renewable energy methods to home improvement. Though global warming is here, we can forge onward in the face of ongoing drought and higher fuel prices through the adaptation of new technologies such as this solar-powered water-heating avenue. The simple solution has come to the forefront of home energy efficiency, as we can now easily configure dedicated solar panels for it. Along the way, we can make room for high load items like a Tesla, dishwasher, refrigerator, etc.
Even though there’s still primarily reliance on gas-powered water heaters in California, change is definitely afoot, with the help of state, local, and federal incentives. There is no shortage of support; home improvement planners can readily swap out fossil fuel-powered heaters for the new electric versions, reducing our carbon imprint. With this alternative system, there’s also an added benefit of dehumidifying the basement or garage spaces into which many of the heaters are placed.
Immediate Changes on Your Utility Bill
Carry out this type of home improvement, and the return on investment starts within days. On your next utility bill, you’ll see fewer charges and surcharges per “therm” (the unit measurement for the gas used to provide heat). Aided by the state and federal incentives, installation costs drop significantly, saving you critical cash flow during economic recovery while helping the environment. You can still be mindful of water conservation, by filling the bath to half full, or taking shorter showers!
Our state also pays one of the most expensive electricity rates in the nation, so solar-assisted electrical heating also curbs those charges. If you already have a home solar system or are designing one, most homes only need an additional 1000 watts to power the heating system. That translates into just a couple more solar panels. Since California has set 2045 as its goal for net neutrality, new water heaters will definitely help get us there.
SolarUnion’s experience in configuring solar systems to offset the increased load imposed by heat pump water heaters has helped local communities continue to fight ongoing utility rate hikes and long-term environmental damage.
The Sooner You Save, the More You Save!
SolarUnion’s unique approach is to directly partner with local consumers to provide optimal home solar systems having extended warranties to safeguard reliability and save money. We are not just on the phone with customers, we are thorough, and our stellar warranties run longer than other outfits. We can also upgrade existing systems to add backup and solar-powered batteries.
In addition to our comprehensive solar and battery backup solution services and installations, we offer solar readiness audits (including roof inspections), repair and maintenance services, and electrical panel upgrades. From HOA solar to community solar, we are experts on all types of roofs and are experienced in ground-mounted solar panels.
Schedule a 20-minute call with SolarUnion to ask questions and get more details about the many financing options we offer. You can schedule with us by using our online calendar (https://calendly.com/phoneconsultationsolarunion), by filling out the form on our website, or by calling SolarUnion directly at (888) 815-6633.