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Many Americans have been exploring renewable energy options for their homes in recent years. Some are motivated by environmental factors, seeking renewable energy sources due to issues like climate change, pollution, or resource scarcity. Others are motivated by purely financial factors, recognizing that, though the initial investment for green home energy sources may be high, the ability to produce one's own electricity or hot water is financially worthwhile in the long term, and that money will can be saved over the course of a few years. Options for home renewable energy systems include geothermal heating, solar panels, solar water heating units, and even small wind turbines.
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Cost
Solar hot water heating systems are becoming extremely popular due to their ability to significantly decrease household energy expenses and their reliability and ease of installation and maintenance. Most solar hot water heating units consist of a small solar panel mounted on the most sun-exposed part of a rooftop, with a series of pipes or a small water tank attached. Solar water heaters tend to require little upkeep, and malfunction rarely. Their lifespan is comparable to that of most residential gas or electric water heaters, if not longer. Traditional hot water heaters use an enormous amount of energy, whether powered by electricity or natural gas, and contribute significantly to household utility bills.
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Versatility and Reliability
Another benefit of solar water heaters is their reliability. Many have battery or gas back-up systems, which allows the unit to function even when the sky is cloudy and sunlight isn't directly available. Solar water heaters are also extremely useful in rural or remote locations where electricity is expensive or unavailable.
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This lack of dependence on electricity also means that when the power is out in a home due to weather or technical malfunction, the solar heater is still entirely capable of supplying hot water as usual. Contrary to popular belief, solar water heating systems can work for homeowners or businesses in any climate, and many can provide hot water year-round. Even if a particular region's weather requires the use of a gas or electric back-up heater, the cost reduction is still significant.
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Environmental Factors
Solar water heating systems also do a great deal to help the environment. Lower resource use means a smaller carbon footprint, and less air pollution. Using less electricity in the home can also reduce the amount of coal, petroleum or other fossil fuels used to power residential areas, and can do a bit to curb unsustainable mining or transportation practices.
Peter Wendt is a writer and researcher living in Austin, Texas. Over the years he has become an authority on solar hot water. If you would like to learn more about this subject, then the author recommends a visit to Hcecopower.com.
