I am looking into a installing solar water heating system. Any concerns I need to be aware of ?

Question

Reputable companies or companies to avoid.

What is a standard installation cost ?

Standard warrantees ?

Answer 1

Check prices and try to estimate if it will pay for itself..My gas bill for water heating is about $6 per month.  I live alone, so take that into consideration.  At $72 per year savings, it would never pay for itself.

If you want solar for a pool, though, that changes the picture.  Initial cost is less, and savings are greater.

Answer 2

Most solar installers are fairly regional, covering a couple of states at most due to travel costs.

I'd start by doing a google search with your town or state and the words "solar water heater". You may also find some help on the web site for the magazine "Home Power" http://www.homepower.com

Installers can sometimes also be found in the yellow pages.

As for price that varies too, my guess would be about 2-5 thousand dollars. You need to "do the numbers" and calculate the pay-back time. Odds are that it will take many years to get your money back.

Warranties are a function of the installers and are usually only good for as long as that installer is in business.

Things to be concerned about are: 1) You must take care of the system, they require yearly maintenance (mine needs 3-8 hours each year). 2) You will usually be cutting holes through your roof, this adds a bit of risk and, as with #1 can require more maintenance. 3) Hail, you will now have a large sheet of glass (or two) on your roof, don't forget to check you insurance and upgrade it if the collectors are not currently covered in your policy.