Solar hot water systems use sunlight to heat water. This guide contains important information that may be useful if you are considering buying a solar  hot water  system for your  home or small  business.

What is a solar hot water system?

There are several types of solar water heaters, but most pump cool water through pipes in a collector that is exposed to the sun. Glass on the front of the collector allows sunlight to pass into the collector, but prevents heat from escaping, like a greenhouse. The hot water returns to an insulated storage tank, similar to a regular hot water heater. This tank holds the hot water until it is required and ensures that hot water is still available even when the sun has gone down.

What if i need hot water at night?

Solar hot water tanks are usually large enough to store enough hot water during the day to provide for evening demand. An electronic controller stops the circulating pump when the collector cools down at night, which prevents excessive heat loss from the system. Most solar hot water tanks also have a back-up electrical water heater, so you always have hot water when you need it.

What can i use a solar water heater for?

Solar water heaters can be used to provide hot water for your home or business and special low-temperature versions can also be used to heat swimming pools.

How long will a system last?

Most good-quality solar hot water systems will last over 20 years if  well maintained, though some components may need replacing sooner and this should be accounted for when assessing the cost of  a system.

I am a landlord, why should i get a solar hot water system for a property i rent out?

Investing in a solar water heating system can reduce your tenant’s electricity bills for decades. Why not fit a system to a property you own and develop a new lease that includes payments from your tenants to cover the value of hot water you are producing for them? A solar water heating system may also make your property more attractive to potential tenants who would rather use ‘clean’ energy.

What size system do i need to provide enough hot water for my home?

A 2–3 person home in bermuda typically requires a solar collector with an area of 20–30 square feet, connected to  a 50 gallon hot water tank, though system specifications will vary depending on technology and installer.

Where should the solar panels be located?

For maximum energy yield, panels should be located in an un-shaded location that faces south at an angle close to 32 degrees from horizontal. You are encouraged to maintain the design and look of your property when considering where and how to install any panels. A reputable solar installer should be able to advise how best to integrate a system into the space available on your property.

How do i get permission for the installation of solar hot water panels?

Most residential solar hot water systems only require a

, which can usually be obtained within a few weeks. The department of planning’s

, provides all the relevant information you’ll need to apply for the approval of any system.

The bermuda plan 2008 planning statement encourages the development of renewable energy sources and permits their installation in any zone at the discretion of the development applications board, or through a permitted development permit where applicable. To date, the majority of applications for solar hot water systems have been approved by the department of planning.delays may be experienced if the application is incomplete or does not include all the relevant information required. For more information contact the department of planning directly at (441) 297-7756.

Will solar panels affect the ability of my roof to catch water?

Solar hot water panels should be installed carefully to avoid channeling water away from gutters. Although solar hot water panels are generally constructed from benign materials such as aluminium and glass, you should discuss any concerns about the impact of these systems on your drinking water quality with a certified solar installer. If you need to paint your roof once the solar panels have been installed, it should be possible to reach under the mounting frame of many smaller systems with a specially adapted roller. Alternatively, it may be possible to remove panels to gain access, though this may increase the cost of painting your roof. Experience in bermuda to date has shown the roof surface under solar panels typically remains in good condition as it is protected from weathering due to rain and damaging solar radiation.

Costs of a solar hot water system

How much does a solar hot water system cost?

A solar water heating system for a household with 2–3 occupants typically costs around $4,000 to $6,000 while a larger system may cost from $8,000 to $10,000 installed. The cost of swimming pool and commercial systems varies depending on the application. It is sensible to obtain several quotations from different installers to get a competitive price.

How much will a hot water system reduce my electric bill?

This depends on how much hot water you use. The department of energy estimates the average home in bermuda currently spends between $400 and $1,000 on electricity to heat water every year — a properly designed solar water heater should reduce this cost by over 80%

How long will it take for the system to pay for itself?

The length of time it will take for a solar hot water system to pay for itself depends on the initial cost of the system and the cost of electricity over the lifetime of the system. Expect a reasonably priced system to pay for itself in around 4 - 5 years, though this will reduce as the price of fossil fuels increases. Your installer should be able to assist you with estimating how long it will take for your system to pay for itself.

What is the government doing to reduce the cost of solar hot water systems?

There is no import duty on complete solar hot water systems and many spare parts.

Is financing available for solar hot water systems?

Certain local banks and installers provide loans specifically for this technology, so you may be able to swap your existing electric bills for loan repayments on a solar hot water system. Once the loan has been repaid, you get free hot water!

I can’t afford a solar hot water system, what else can i do?

Why not consider a heat pump water heater instead — although they still run on electricity, they only cost around $2,000–$2,500 and can save almost as much energy as a solar water heater.

Solar hot water system installation information

Can I install my own system?

Although solar hot water systems are relatively simple and can be installed with some basic knowledge and training, system design requires experience and skill, roof penetrations must be properly sealed to prevent leaks, fastenings must be able to withstand hurricane force winds, mixing valves must be used to prevent scalding and the system must be carefully configured for optimal performance. Due to the cost of the system and the potential safety hazards of improperly installed systems, the Department of Energy recommends you use a certified installer who has the necessary knowledge and experience to ensure your system is properly designed and installed.

How do i know if a system is good quality?

Solar hot water panels should be certified by the solar rating and certification corporation, so make sure you ask your installer for equipment that meets this standard. Installers should also hold an appropriate certification, which demonstrates they have the knowledge to properly design and install solar hot water systems.

Should i look for a warranty on a system?

Solar collectors and hot water tanks should have a five to ten year warranty  and if the system uses a circulating pump and electronic pump controller these should have a warranty of at least a few years. Installers should also offer warrantees for their work, particularly for any roof penetrations, though warrantees will vary from company to company so make sure you ask around and choose carefully.

Will solar panels survive a hurricane?

Much like a roof, the survivability of a solar hot water system depends on how well it has been designed, built and also upon the particular conditions experienced during a hurricane.

If your system is properly designed and installed on a strong roof using high-quality products it should withstand hurricane force winds. It is best to discuss any concerns directly with your solar installer, though you may also wish to consider insuring your system. Remember that damage could occur from flying debris such as loose tree branches, so if a hurricane is approaching, make sure you trim any trees and secure any loose objects near the solar collector.