How it works: the SunCache solar water heater

Perhaps you've heard about the California Solar Initiative Thermal Program, which the state Public Utilities Commission approved in January. It's a $350 million rebate plan that will replace natural gas-powered water heaters with those that heat water using nothing but the sun. Sounds interesting, right? But how does it work?

We've got the answer right here:

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Comments

[Bditman]

I've had a solar water heater for 4 1/2 years. It was installed by Mediterranean Heating and Air Conditioning and is called a "Coppersun." It has copper pipes and glass - better materials and hold 50 gallons. It takes 55 - 57 degree city water and heats it up to 145 degrees on a summer day. There's a thermostat controlled manifold that mixes cold water back in to avoid scalding temperatures. It's just about paid for itself. Everyone should do this. Think of how much gas we could save - and then we could use the natural gas as a motor fuel. I looked at the numbers - cost vs. payback, and it was an easy decision. Even on a cool day it warms the water. It does most of the heavy lifting, so the water heater works much much less. Of course I love the planet and all that, but mostly, I'm cheap. Benjamin Franklin was thrifty...I'm cheap.

[NorthernCA Teacher]

My husband and I have had such a system for over 30 years (and only 2 different units have been involved). We also have a timer on our hot water system so that we can only have it "turn on" during Off-Peak Electrical Use (we are on PG&E). Many days during the summer, the hot water heater does not even turn on then because the pre-heated water is above the temperature of the water heater thermostat setting. Those hot days, we have to use our evaporative cooler to lower the house temperature. Our highest electricity bills have been under $70 a month (1750 sq. ft home) even when we had two kids in residence.

These units are sooooooo worth the price.