Is a solar panel really worth it?

Question

My dad is considering putting solar panels on our shed in order to heat our water. This doesn't seem to make much sense to me. Then again I don't know much about solar power. about how much is it to install? Can it be installed on a shed instead of a house? Does it really save a lot of money? Also, if we decide to move in the next 5 years, is it able to be removed and taken along?

Any other facts or even websites, let me know!

Thank you so much!

Answer 1

I dont think its worth it

Answer 2

Have you considered building your own? It's fairly simple, with a few tools and supplies. I'll tell you one thing - It's a lot cheaper to build and install them yourself.

Check out http://www.squidoo.com/reviewearth4energ... to learn more.

Hope that helps :)

Answer 3

I know them as solar collectors, a black panel that goes on your roof to pre-heat water in the house. Different from photovoltaic solar panels.

Solar collectors are excellent and can heat water, heat the home. All new construction in sunny areas should be made with solar collectors, they're all over Japan. A nice design is a solar collector underneath a solar panel, you get electricity and heating of water.

Answer 4

solar hot water panels are SO "worth it" that the State of Hawaii has just made it Mandatory that ALL new construction must have them!!

unlike photo voltaics the science behind them is easier to deal with - i have seen plans for building them at home from something as simple as an old refrigerator door. of course you can amp up the technology too. (look at back issues of Mother Earth News) to get you started on the research)

so yes its worth it - yes its doable and the shed may be the best site because of shade/sun issues and i personally doubt you'd want to take it with you at a later date

Answer 5

A solar hot water heater makes sense if you're in a warm climate.  There are water heating panels that can tolerate a hard freeze, but obviously, they won't produce under such conditions.

If replacing an electric water heater, a solar water heater can pay for itself in just a few years.  It will probably have paid for itself in 5 years.  Given the trouble to remove it, and the relatively low cost (maybe $3000), you would typically leave it on the house if you sell.  It would increase the value of the house for buyers.

I think you can also call it a capital improvement, and add it to the basis of your house when you sell.

Answer 6

OK.  Solar panels are good for recharging batteries.  When your electric goes out, you coulds use an inverter to convert the battery from DC voltage to AC voltage.

Answer 7

Solar energy panels and solar hot water panels are completely different. The solar hot water system works great and has been in use in southern climates for years and is a great way to save energy.

There are a lot of variables that go into solar energy panels and whether or not they are right for your location and climate. Texas yes, Alaska no.