Is the solar water heater an efficient method to save energy

Let us first look at how a solar water heater works. Solar hot water systems are composed of solar energy collectors, a liquid system to move heat from the extractor to the storage. This system enables you to heat household hot water for a home or for commercial uses, for ex: energy input for buildings, room heating and cooling.

These systems are usually storage systems as well. Depending on the weather, they can heat up to 90% of your water, free of cost, by utilizing the sun's energy. The solar hot water system generally consists of a solar panel located on the roof, facing the north, to heat water, as well as an insulated storage tank to store your hot water. It is reliable doesn’t require much maintenance and will last up to 30 years.

In a bill titled "10 Million Solar Roofs & 10 Million Gallons of solar hot water act", introduced on Feb. 4, 2010, Americans in all 50 states would be eligible for rebates for the installation of solar electric and solar thermal systems.

The solar hot water systems act as a pre-heater for the water before it reaches your regular water heater. Solar hot water systems can be made easily using existing equipment and also plumbing. You may not even have to purchase a new tank.

Solar Hot water systems can reduce the hot water heating costs by 75% - 95%, probably saving you hundreds of dollars annually. Solar hot water systems may be homemade or you can get a contractor to get it installed. Solar hot water systems can be cost-competitive any time thus reducing electricity intake by making use of this efficient technology.