solar water heater

Jim_109

what are the pros and cons of a solar water heater?

in terms of efficiency, costs, reliability etc., how good are they?

How do they compare to an indirect

When considering one what features, types brands etc. should I consider?

I live in the NYC area

Wayco Wayne_2

I'm not a

solar expert, but I have played one in a movie. (Just kidding, :P) An indirect is the tops. Hardly any standby losses and you get a lot of recovery speed depending on the capacity and efficiency of the boiler at the heart of the system. I would add solar if I had the money and heat up a pre heat tank that is piped in series with the indirect. WW

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hot_rod

plenty of good choices

of course you will need a back up system for non-sunny days.

Generally the solar would be a pre-heat before the main water heater.

if you have a boiler already you could install an indirect with dual coils. One for the solar loop, one for ther boiler.

Or, Heat Transfer offers a high efficienct stainless steel water heater with a solar coil so both functions are in one tank.

Or a solar tank with an electric element for back up.

First determine how much hot water you need. then size the system around your needs.

There are a number of solar contractors in the NYc area. contact one to get a site evalation first off.

Properly cared for a solar thermal system should last 15, 20 years or more.

There are plenty of players in the solar thermal market. Oventrop, Schuco, Viessmann, Buderus, Heliodyne, etc.

Stop by a Barnes and Nobel and get a copy of Solar today mag for some more names.

I'd go with a system that is common in your area for good dealer support and installation.

hot rod

Jason_25

I am also interested in solar. I want to install one in my own house first before any customers. I would like to use it for heating as well as for water heating. I have a munchkin boiler and superstore indirect with radiant. I am having difficulty finding any solar distributers in my area (nothern Michigan) - any suggestions

hot_rod

Most radiant and hydronic contractors

can install and sell solar components.

Many of the hydronic and radiant manufacturers I mentioned above are sold in your area.

Try the "find a contractor" button above, or the RPA website for a contractor/dealer near you.

hot rod

Jason_25

hot rod - I am a HVAC contacter I have e-mailed oventrop for a solar distibuter in my area but no answer Who do I contact at oventrop for their distibuter?

Joe Walsh

Solar Info

Jason

Call me at the office and I can help you.

Joe Walsh
Oventrop Corp.
860-413-9173