SAHBA Home Hints
June 29, 2008
Solar Water Revolution Heats up by Cutting Costs
By now, homeowners have learned that powering a home with solar energy is environmentally friendly and can reduce electric bills. But the transition and cost of some solar systems may be daunting for the average person.
If homeowners are looking to enter the solar revolution, and the cost of investment is of concern, they may want to consider starting with a solar water heater.
Transitioning to solar electricity may be out of a homeowner's price range, even after tax benefits. But the good news is that the return on investment for solar water can reach almost 95%, said Jerry Samaniego, Owner of Expert Solar Systems.
Solar water heaters are relatively maintenance-free systems that are easy to install and retrofit. And, these systems can cut bills in half.
“You have appliances for convenience,” said Samaniego, a SAHBA member. “Solar is a convenient appliance because it will eventually pay for itself. How could anything be more convenient than that?”
Installing a solar hot water heater can save up to 95% in the cost of heating water. Family size and water use are variables in individual household savings.
The State of Arizona solar tax credit covers 25% of expenses up to $1,000. In addition, the Federal Government solar tax credit is 30% of expenses up to $2,000.
This month, Tucson Electric Power (TEP) started offering a rebate for homeowners installing solar water heaters. To take advantage of the $750 rebate, the unit must be inspected by TEP. For more information and an application for the solar water heater rebate, visit www.greenwatts.com.
Samaniego also suggests replacing the water storage tank for the old gas or electric system when retrofitting a heater. This way homeowners can apply that cost to tax credits.
Cost incentives are half of the equation when it comes to the benefits of owning a solar water heater. Advanced technology and environmental benefits are unbeatable.
“The ugly is not there,” said Samaniego when asked about the good, the bad, and the ugly on solar water heaters. “Improvements made to the devices, and of course helping the environment outweigh any cost.”
Details: Samaniego at (520) 749-3538.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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