Key Takeaways
| Key Point | Summary |
|---|---|
| Cost After Tax Credits and Rebates | $1,500 – $6,600 |
| Cost Before Tax Credits and Rebates | $3,000 – $9,000 |
| National Average Cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $13,000 |
Solar water heaters are an energy-efficient way to reduce utility bills and the reliance on fossil fuels. Understanding the solar water heater costs associated, including purchasing and installing costs is critical. This detailed guide will break down the various costs involved, types of systems, installation fees, and more.
Solar Water Heater Cost
Cost Overview
Here’s a quick snapshot of the costs associated with solar water heaters:
| Category | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Cost After Tax Credits and Rebates | $1,500 – $6,600 |
| Cost Before Tax Credits and Rebates | $3,000 – $9,000 |
Average Solar Water Heater Costs
The overall solar water heater costs can vary significantly:
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| National Average Cost | $6,000 |
| Minimum Cost | $1,000 |
| Maximum Cost | $13,000 |
| Average Range | $3,000 to $9,000 |
Solar Water Heater Cost By Type
Solar water heaters come in two main types: active and passive systems. Each type has unique features and associated costs.
Active vs. Passive Solar Water Heater Cost
| Type | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Active System | $2,300 – $6,000 |
| Passive System | $1,000 – $3,700 |
Features of Active and Passive Solar Water Heaters
| Feature | Active Direct | Active Indirect | Drain Back | ICS (Batch) | Thermosyphon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lightweight Collector | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ||
| Low-profile Collector | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ||
| Withstands Freezing | ☑ | ☑ | |||
| No Extra Storage Tank Needed | ☑ | ☑ | |||
| Requires a Controller | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ||
| Requires a Pump | ☑ | ☑ | ☑ | ||
| No Moving Parts | ☑ | ☑ |
Active Solar Water Heater Cost
Active solar water heating systems are more complex and generally more expensive than passive systems. They use pumps and controls to circulate water.
Passive Solar Water Heater Cost
Passive systems rely on natural circulation and gravity to move water, making them simpler and often cheaper than active systems.
Solar Water Heater Cost of System Installation
The installation costs for solar water heaters can include several factors:
| Factor | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Heating System | $1,000 – $6,000 |
| Thermal Collector | $1,600 – $2,600 |
| Tank | $1,000 – $2,800 |
| Parts (Active Systems) | $800 – $2,200 |
Solar Thermal Collector Prices
Solar thermal collectors are essential components of a solar water heating system. Prices can vary based on the size and type of collector.
| Flat-plate Collector Size | Evacuated Tube Collector Size | Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| 4′ x 6′ | 15 tubes | $800 – $1,050 |
| 4′ x 8′ | 20 tubes | $900 – $1,300 |
| 4′ x 10′ | 25 – 30 tubes | $1,000 – $1,500 |
Total Solar Thermal Collector Size Needed Per Home
The required collector size depends on the household size and location.
| Location | People in Household | Collector Size (sq. ft.) | Average Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Half of U.S. | 2 | 40 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| 3 to 4 | 54 – 68 | $2,350 – $2,600 | |
| 5 to 6 | 82 – 96 | $2,000 – $3,900 | |
| Southern Half of U.S. | 2 | 40 | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| 3 to 4 | 48 – 56 | $1,600 – $2,350 | |
| 5 to 6 | 64 – 72 | $1,800 – $2,800 |
Solar Water Heater Tank Prices and Sizes
Storage tanks for solar water heaters also come in various sizes and costs.
| People in Household | Gallon Capacity | Average Price (Tank Only) | Average Price (Tank with Heat Exchanger) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 60 – 80 | $800 – $1,500 | $1,200 – $2,300 |
| 3 to 4 | 80 – 100 | $1,000 – $1,600 | $1,400 – $2,700 |
| 5 to 6 | 100 – 120+ | $1,200 – $2,100 | $1,750 – $2,800 |
Solar Water Heater Cost by Part
Other components of solar water heaters also have varying costs.
| Part | Average Cost | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Controller | $130 – $475 | Monitors the temperature and state of the system and activates the pump. |
| Pump | $130 – $600 | Controls water flow or a heat-transfer fluid. |
| Mounting Bracket | $50 – $250 | Secures the collector panel to the roof. |
| Pump Station | $500 – $900 | An optional pump with an integrated controller. |
Tax Credits, Rebates, and Incentives
Tax credits, rebates, and other incentives can significantly reduce the cost of a solar water heater. Be sure to check for federal, state, and local incentives before making a purchase.
Electric Boosted / Electricity Backup
Some solar water heaters come with electric backup systems to ensure a constant supply of hot water even when sunlight is insufficient.
Solar Pool Heater Cost
Solar pool heaters are another application of solar water heating technology and can vary significantly in cost depending on the system size and other factors.
Best Solar Hot Water Heater Brands And Prices
Several reputable brands offer solar water heaters. Here are some of the best:
| Brand | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Rheem | $2,400 – $6,700 |
| Duda Diesel | $1,400 – $6,700 |
| SunEarth | $2,300 – $6,500 |
| Apricus | $3,000 – $5,800 |
| Sunbank Solar | $2,500 – $4,000 |
| Northern Lights Group | $2,500 – $6,800 |
Are Solar Water Heaters Worth The Cost?
Solar Hot Water Heater Savings
A solar water heater can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills.
| Water Heater Type | Annual Energy Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar | $90 – $175 |
| Gas Tank | $225 – $350 |
| Gas Tankless | $150 – $260 |
| Electric Tank | $440 – $580 |
| Electric Tankless | $300 – $535 |
| Hybrid Heat Pump | $145 – $250 |
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Solar Water Heater And Geyser
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Reduces utility bills by 50% to 80% | High upfront cost for system and installation |
| Increases home resale value by 2% to 6% | Requires direct sunlight to function |
| Environmentally friendly | Efficiency drops with lower temperatures or clouds |
| Uses renewable energy | Requires roof space for collectors |
| Reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 1.2 tons per year | Typically requires a supplemental water heater |
| May be eligible for tax credits and rebates | |
| Avoids increasing gas and electricity rates | |
| Some models don’t require electricity |
Solar Hot Water Collector Efficiency
Solar hot water collectors are designed to maximize efficiency by capturing the maximum amount of sunlight.
Solar Thermal Water Heater vs. Home Solar Panel System
When considering solar energy options, understanding the differences and benefits of solar thermal water heaters compared to photovoltaic solar panel systems is essential.
What Is A Solar Hot Water Heater?
A solar hot water heater captures energy from the sun to heat water for household use, reducing electricity or gas consumption.
How Does A Solar Panel Water Heater Work?
Solar water heaters typically consist of collectors that absorb solar energy and use it to heat water stored in tanks.
Do Solar Water Heaters Work On Cloudy Days, At Night, Or In Winter?
While solar water heaters work best on sunny days, they can still function during cloudy days and in winter, often supplemented by electric backups.
Solar Water Heater Heating Time And Temperature Range
Heating times and temperature ranges for solar water heaters can vary based on collector efficiency and sunlight availability.
How Long Do Solar Water Heaters Last?
Solar water heaters typically have a long lifespan, often lasting between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
Do Solar Hot Water Systems Need Servicing?
Yes, regular servicing of solar hot water systems is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Getting Solar Water Heater Quotes
When purchasing a solar water heater, it’s crucial to obtain several quotes and compare costs, warranties, and services offered.
Questions To Ask
- What is the total cost including installation?
- Are there any available tax credits or rebates?
- What is the warranty on the system and its parts?
- How long is the expected lifespan?
- What is the maintenance schedule and cost?
- Are there any potential issues with my roof’s structure?
Solar water heaters are an effective way to reduce energy bills while benefiting the environment. Though the initial investment can be high, various incentives, long-term savings, and the environmental impact make solar water heaters a worthwhile consideration for many households.
By understanding the costs involved, the types of systems available, and the additional benefits, you can make an informed decision about investing in a solar water heater.
Related Cost Guides
For more detailed information on related home improvement projects, check out these guides:
- Water Heater Repair Cost: Discover the typical costs associated with repairing different types of water heaters and learn about common repair issues and solutions.
- Water Heater Installation or Replacement Cost: Find out how much it costs to install or replace a water heater, including factors that affect the overall price and tips for choosing the right unit.
- Water Heater Gas Valve Replacement Cost: Understand the costs involved in replacing a gas valve in your water heater, including labor and part expenses.
