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Solar Hot Water – Considerations Before Installing
Before considering the installation of a solar hot water system, the easiest first step should be to decrease consumption, increase efficiency, and reduce loss of hot water. A few simple changes can make a great difference in consumption. For example:
- turning down the thermostat on the hot water heater to 120°F
- insulating hot water pipes
- insulating the hot water heater
- repairing leaky hot water faucets
- replacing an inefficient hot water heater, washing machine, dishwasher, and/or plumbing
- installing a low-flow shower head
These steps will reduce hot water consumption and increase efficiency of an existing domestic hot water system. Note that the shower is the largest user of hot water in the average residence.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year in Colorado, most locations in Colorado are good choices for solar installations. A fundamental requirement for a solar system is to have a sunny location where solar collectors can function properly. Locations where the sun is blocked from the collectors by aspect, trees, neighboring buildings, or other obstructions will reduce the efficiency of a system.
Prior to making the decision to install a solar system, determine if there are restrictions to placing solar collection panels on your home. Check with your homeowner’s association, local building codes and zoning ordinances to be sure there are no restrictions on installing a solar system on your home or property. Colorado law prohibits homeowners associations from preventing the use of solar energy devices, including solar hot water systems, in a way that would significantly increase the purchase price or operating costs of the system to the homeowner or decrease performance.
For more information, see: Introduction to Domestic Solar Hot Water Systems – CSU Extension
Updated Thursday, May 17, 2012