Solar FAQ

Solar hot water systems are environmentally friendly and will reduce your utility bill saving you money. You will be contributing to our country’s shift to clean, renewable energy and at the same time add value to your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why would I want a solar hot water system?

A: Solar hot water systems are environmentally friendly and will reduce your utility bill saving you money. You will be contributing to our country’s shift to clean, renewable energy and at the same time add value to your home.

Q. How does a solar water heater system work?

A: A Solar Hot Water system consists of solar collectors that are installed on your roof and captures the energy from the sun which is then used to the heat water. There are three main components of the solar system that works together to deliver heat from the sun to your faucets -- the controller, the collectors and the circulation module.

Q. How much does it cost to install a solar hot water system?

A: System price ranges from roughly $6000-$7000 depending on the system size and the complexity of pipes to be run through the house. Commercial systems can range from $10,000 to over $200,000 depending on the hot water demands of the property.

Q: How long will it take to install the system?

A: Once you’ve signed your contract and a deposit is received, the installation takes 2-3 weeks from start to finish. This includes paperwork, permit filing, scheduling and completion. The actual onsite install usually takes 2-3 days.

Q: How long until I break even?

A: The break-even period for solar water systems is 1 to 5 years depending on a variety of factors:

  • How much hot water you use (the more you use, the more you save and the quicker you break even)
  • The cost of your system,
  • The cost of energy you are currently using (offsetting higher energy costs speeds up your break-even time), and
  • The available Federal, State and utility incentives which reduce the amount of your investment and lower your time to break even.

Q: Will a solar system increase the value of my home?

A: With solar energy systems you will realize a significant Return on Investment as well as increase the value of the home by a factor of how much it saves in utility costs. An article in the Appraiser’s Journal estimated that for every $1,000 in annual operating costs reduced, a home’s value is increased by $20,000.

Q: Are there any rebates?

A: Yes, there are Federal, State and Utility incentives offered for the purchase of a solar hot water system. A brief description of credits available:

Federal Tax Credit — 30% off of the total installed cost of the solar hot water system.

State Tax Credits — In the State of Hawaii, 35% of the cost of a solar hot water system.

Rebates — Are available to residential electric utility ratepayers on the Big Island, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and Oahu only.

Solar Water Heating - $750
Solar Water Heating Interest loan buy down - $1,000