Solar Electric Panels vs. Solar Hot Water Heaters:

Shouldn’t the first thing that you figure out when you want to save money on utilities be learning what is going to give you the most bang for your buck?  Wouldn’t everyone be more informed if they just knew how much money they were going to save with each option and then what the pricing was going to cost them?  There are several key differences between solar electric systems and solar hot water systems, and the goal here is to teach everyone the information you need to know and understand to make an informed financial decision.

Solar Electric Panel Systems:

Solar electric systems (aka PV Solar) is almost everytime going to cost at least 10x more than a solar water heater.  The reason is that the actual end product of this system is electricity.  It is more expensive to make electricity compared to hot water. Also, the physical number of solar panels needed to make electricity is much more compared to the number needed to make hot water for the common home.  But, don’t be scared off from solar electric so quickly.

Positives of Solar Electric Systems:

1. Many solar rebates and tax incentives are normally available
2. They last a very long time (usually over 25 years for solar panels)
3. They replace ever increasing costs for electricity
4. They add value to your home
5. They are property tax exempt
6. They do not require any maintenance

Negatives for Solar Electric Systems:

1. Expensive
2. More planning is usually needed to install the systems
3. Labor costs for the installation are usually higher
4. Sometimes you might need to install a newer roof before installing(if your old roof is beat up)

Solar Hot Water Systems:

The solar hot water system is a great economical purchase for almost any house.  It is a shame that it is not mandatory for almost everyone.  The cost of heating water is always going up all over the country, and a solar hot water can virtually eliminate that need, which in turn will save you quite a bit of money.

Positives of Solar Hot Water:

1. Cheap to install and get running
2. Some tax incentives and rebates are available for Solar Hot Water
3. Can decrease your heating bill considerably throughout the year
4. Does not take up very much roof space, usually one or two solar panels

Negatives of Solar Hot Water:

1. The lifespan of a solar hot water heater is usually between 5-8 years
2. Some counties require a specialized installer and plumbing to be re-worked

Summary:

Both of the options are great options.  You can see for yourself what makes the most sense between solar hot water systems or solar electric.  Either way you look at it, they both are an investment which will help you and your family live a more sustainable lifestyle moving forward.