Faqs on Solar Hot Water Heating
Heating household water is one of Americans’ biggest energy expenses. A FAFCO system reduces water heating costs by up to 50% or more in some applications. Plus, it qualifies for the 30% federal tax credit.
Frequently asked questions for Solar Hot Water Heating
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How will well water and possible sediment affect the system?
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Will the system have to be removed from my roof when the temperature gets below freezing?
Why use a Solar Hot Water Heater?
Solar Hot Water will reduce your eletric bill by 30%. You will have hotter water and more abundant hot water. No waiting to take a shower in a big family. DHW will last up to 30 Years with a little maintence. No Rust or sludge build up and increases the value of the home.
Is there enough sun where I live?
Yes. There is enough sun in most areas of North America. For more specifics on the amount of sun in your area, visit the Solar Radiation Resources Information website and their Solar Radiation Data Manual, which provides information on solar radiation in your area and charts for areas across the U.S. for a 30-year period.
How does a solar water heater work?
There are three main components of the solar hot water system that work together to deliver heat from the sun to your faucet: the controller, the collectors and the circulation module.
The controller is the brain of the system. It has one sensor on the roof and one sensor on your water tank. When the controller determines that the temperature on the roof is warmer than the temperature in your tank, it sends power to the circulation module.
The circulation module is where the heat from solar is transferred to your water heater. It circulates one loop of water up to the roof to be warmed by the sun and it circulates a second loop of water from your water tank. The heat is transferred from the solar water to the potable water via a heat exchanger inside the circulation module.
The solar panels are where the energy is collected from the sun. The Solar Collector on your roof absorbs sunlight in both the visible and the invisible spectrums and turns it into heat. As the water flows through the panel, the heat is transferred to the water and then to the water heater through the heat exchanger.
I have a large family, can I expand the system?
Yes, one way to expand the system is to add a solar storage tank which will make any number of panels perform better. If desired, additional solar panels can also be added. We can assist you in configuring the best system for your needs.
Does it replace my existing hot water heater?
No. A solar hot water system works in conjunction with your existing gas or electric hot water heater. Some cases, we can retro-fit into your water heater. Other cases we have to replace with a larger water heater.
Does the solar hot water system require maintenance?
According to the Florida Solar Energy Center, Solar hot water will last up to 30 years with very little maitenance
How long will it take a Florida Solar East, LLC to install the system?
The system can be installed in about a half day with a two-person team.
How will well water and possible sediment affect the system?
We have a system specificly designed for well water and there's no sediment build up.
Will the system have to be removed from my roof when it gets below 32 degrees Fahrenheit?
No, the drainback feature of the solae system ensures that water is not in the panels when the pump is not running.
How do I purchase a system or receive more information?
Call (866) 44-SOLAR (76527) between the hours of (9:00am - 4:00pm) or After hours call (321) 215-1439.
What is covered by the warranty?
There is a 10 warranty on the collector and tank. A 3 year warranty on the pump and a stand, and an 1 year contractor warranty on everything else.
What is the expected life of the system?
According to the FSEC, you can expect 20-30 years with little maintenance.
