How Solar Water Heating Systems Work

Solar collectors on the roof of your home are connected through a series of pipes to a solar water tank. City water pressure forces the cool water in your tank up these pipes and into the solar collectors. The collectors trap the sun’s heat and transfer it to the water inside.

When the water gets hot enough from the sun, the circulation pump transfers it back into the storage tank where it rises to the top of unit. The cool water, which remains near the bottom of the unit, is pumped to the solar collectors, completing the solar heating cycle.

The circulation pump will continue to run as long as the sun is up. In times of poor weather and heavy use, a timer-controlled, back-up heating element located in the solar water tank will ensure you have hot water.

Solar water heating benefits:

• Cut water heater energy costs by 50-80%
• Utilize free energy from the sun to reduce the effect of utility rate increases
• Claim up to 65% of your solar water heating system costs by utilizing State of Hawaii and federal tax credits
• Receive a one-time $1,250 rebate from the State of Hawaii for solar water heaters installed on existing homes
• Take advantage of low interest and zero interest loans through the Hawaii and Maui Solar Roofs Initiatives
• Protect the environment by using clean, renewable energy

Read our customer success stories to see how much you can save.

Benefits of Alternate Energy, Inc’s Solar Water Heating Systems

Alternate Energy’s residential solar hot water heating systems are designed to provide the best combination of value, reliability, and trouble-free service. In order to maximize the lifespan of your system, we include the following features:

Service warranties:

• 3-year warranty on all parts and labor (After 5 years, a limited warranty applies.)
• 5-year warranty on all parts and labor for copper panel systems
• Full customer support throughout the lifespan of the system

System and installation features:

• Concealment of vertical water piping on walls
• Three digital temperate gauges
• Brass water heater fittings and stainless steel valve handles (replace default galvanized fittings and ball valves, respectively)
• Hangar bolt-installed pipes and panels, which protect against leaks, keep water pipes free of debris, and allow for easy removal
• Additional brass ball valve installation to allow for better isolation during system maintenance