Domestic Hot Water

Solar hot water systems are most commonly used to heat water for basic household needs such as laundry, bathing, dishwashing and cooking. These systems are commonly referred to as "domestic hot water systems".

Domestic hot water systems typically use solar energy to pre-heat the water that is incoming to a conventionally water heater. The warmer the water from the solar heater, the less conventional fuel will be needed to provide the household's hot water needs. During the summer months in Santa Barbara, a properly sized solar hot water system will provide almost 100% of a household's needs. In the winter, or during extended cloudy periods, the amount of hot water provided by the sun may be 30% or less. We aim to install systems that meet between 60% and 70% of the annual load.

The size of the solar collectors suitable for your site will depend upon the manufacturer and your hot water usage, but typically they will require between 50 and 100 square feet of mounting area. The most common mounting technique used today is to install the collectors on pedestals with the roof on a south facing exposure. Alternatives, such as ground mounting, or rack mounting are also sometimes possible.

Remember, solar domestic hot water systems often qualify for federal, state, and local tax credits and rebates!