The climate crisis burdens the minds of many. If you wonder how to help, consider that 14% of residential electricity we use to heat water, which also accounts for 7-20% of households’ energy usage (Bongungu et. al., 2022). Solar energy is one solution for our carbon-intensive economy, and for a few thousand dollars, the best solar water heaters can reduce our energy usage significantly.
This benefits not just the planet, but your pocketbook as well in the form of smaller electricity bills. Let’s compare the three best solar water heating systems.
The Sunbank 40-Gallon Solar Water Heater
Sunbank designed this system to serve a household of 1-3 people, and it comes with peace of mind: a ten-year warranty. Furthermore, Sunbank is a certified brand eligible for a 30% Federal Tax Credit in the US.
It features top-shelf efficiency, capturing 92-96% of the sun’s rays. Like a regular water heater, it uses municipal or well pressure to move water in and out of it.
The only disadvantages of this model are the fragility of its glass vacuum tubes and potential incompatibility with local water distribution systems. This system has no moving parts and is very easy to maintain. You can purchase one directly from the company for $2,499, and you can even pay in installments.
The Misol Solar Water Collector
Like the Sunbank system, Misol makes this solar water heater with vacuum tubes painted black for maximum heat absorption and optimal thermal efficiency. It uses solar radiation to heat water directly, which runs inside copper pipes in the tubes, rather than generating electricity to heat water.
One downside is it requires assembly, but the materials are very durable and survive the elements well. While this model costs less than the Sunbank system, it requires a pump to move water through it. It costs from $300-800; you can get a pump for $50, but you save a lot on installation costs.
SunRain Solar Flat Plate Collector
Rather than working with vacuum tubes, this product uses a flat plate of specially treated, tempered glass to warm the water moving through it. This collector comes in various sizes to accommodate the size of your family.
Like Sunbank, this model is certified, and thus eligible for rebates or tax credits, depending on your locale. Depending on the tank size, this product costs $1000-3000.
Citations
Bongongu, J. L., Francisco, P. W., Gloss, S. L., & Stillwell, A. S. (2022). Estimating residential hot water consumption from smart electricity meter data. Environmental Research Infrastructure and Sustainability, 2(4), 1-31. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/362852449_Estimating_residential_hot_water_consumption_from_smart_electricity_meter_data
Odogwu, C., & Blok, A. (2023, June 2). Solar Water Heaters: Everything You Need to Know. CNET. Retrieved August 17, 2023, from https://www.cnet.com/home/energy-and-utilities/solar-water-heaters-everything-you-need-to-know/
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