I’m excited to welcome Mr. Trudeau, owner and operator of  -C.A Trudeau Solar Plumbing and Heating-.
Fully Insured & License#  PL -283810

Mr. Trudeau is one of only 18 licensed solar water heating installers in Connecticut at this time (3/2/10)  His company has been installing Solar water heaters, solar pool heaters, and solar radiant systems for over ten year.  He proudly covers the entire state of Connecticut and installed hundreds of solar systems threw out Connecticut.
We met Mr. Trudeau at a Bender plumbing supply in New Haven CT.  He was in a meeting leaning about Rheem’s new  SolPak solar water heating system, as we were.  The SolPak is a brand new complete system “all in one box” which fully qualifies for the $1,500, unlike the majority of companies in the solar water heating business.  We spoke for a while after the meeting and I told him about waterheatinginfo.com.  He thought it sounded like a great idea and wanted to get involved, so with his permission I’m creating this post on his behalf.

C.A. Trudeau specializes in the installation, repair, and maintenance of solar water heating systems threw out Connecticut.

Solar water heaters, solar pool heating systems, solar radiant heating systems, and every other solar water heating installation required Mr. Trudeau can get it done correctly, quickly, and at the most competitive prices around.

Contact him directly at-

203-488-5851    catrudeau@sbcglobal.net

Mr Trudeau is one of the best Solar water heating contractor in Connecticut, he is committed to providing top quality Solar water heating systems threw out New Haven, and Fairfield counties.

Mention waterheatinginfo.com and ask about setting up a free estimate.

——————————————–

Solar water heating or solar hot water is water heated by the use of solar energy. Solar heating systems generally consist of solar thermal collectors, a water storage tank, water piping, and a pump to move the heated water from the collector to the tank. This thermodynamic approach is completely from solar electric systems which use semiconductor photovoltaic (PV) cells that generate electricity from light; whereas solar water heating directly heats liquids by the sun where no electricity is directly generated. A solar water heating system may use electricity for pumping the fluid (the circulator pump), and have a reservoir or tank with a back up heating system for heating and storing water during times of low sun exposure. The water can be heated for a wide variety of uses, including home, business and industrial uses. Heating swimming pools is a very popular and typically the 1^st solar installation for a home, or family.  Underfloor heating also known as radiant heating are other examples of solar water heating.

Solar Precautions!  Freeze protection

Freeze protection measures prevent damage to the system due to the expansion of freezing transfer fluid. Some systems drain the transfer fluid from the system when the pump stops. In indirect systems (where the transfer fluid is separated from the heated water), this is called drainback and in direct systems (where the heated water is used as the transfer fluid) it is called draindown. Many indirect systems use anti-freeze (e.g. glycol) in the heat transfer fluid. This approach is simpler and more reliable than drainback and is common in climates where freezing temperatures occur often.

In both direct and indirect systems, automatic recirculation may be used for freeze protection. When the water in the collector reaches a temperature near freezing, the controller turns the pump on for a few minutes to warm the collector with water from the tank.

In some direct systems, the collectors are manually drained when freezing is expected. This approach is common in climates where freezing temperatures do not occur often.

Solar Precautions!  Overheat protection

The water from the collector can reach very high temperatures in good sunshine, or if the pump fails. Designs should allow for relief of pressure and excess heat through a heat dump. Almost all systems have pressure relief valves through which excessive water pressure or steam can be vented. Active systems often reduce water temperature in the storage tank by circulating hot water through the collector at night (when solar energy does not heat the collector).

Economics and Other Benefits of Active Solar Heating Systems

Active solar heating systems are most cost-effective when they are used for most of the year, that is, in cold climates with good solar resources. They are most economical if they are displacing more expensive heating fuels, such as electricity, propane, and oil heat. Some states offer sales tax exemptions, income tax credits or deductions, and property tax exemptions or deductions for solar energy systems.

The cost of an active solar heating system will vary. Commercial systems range from $30 to $80 per square foot of collector area, installed. Usually, the larger the system, the less it costs per unit of collector area. Commercially available collectors come with warranties of 10 years or more, and should easily last decades longer. The economics of an active space heating system improve if it also heats domestic water, because an otherwise idle collector can heat water in the summer.

Heating your home with an active solar energy system can significantly reduce your fuel bills in the winter. A solar heating system will also reduce the amount of air pollution and greenhouse gases that result from your use of fossil fuels such as oil, propane, and natural gas for heating or that may be used to generate the electricity that you use.

Who is a licensed solar water heater installer in Connecticut?   C.A.. Trudeau
How many licensed solar water heater installers are there in Connecticut?  18  (as of 3/2/10)

Solar water heaters
Solar pool heating systems
Solar radiant heating systems
and more.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

The Rheem Solar System of the future is here today!

Everyone is familiar with the basic idea of Solar water heaters.  Sunlight hits a light/heat collector; the hot water is stored in a tank.  Which in turn basically consists of strapping up a couple solar collectors on the roof, adding a few safety devises, expansion tank, copper piping, a tank, and Basically that it, basically.

Most people like the idea of lowering their carbon foot print and helping out mother Earth when we can, but let’s be honest everyone likes the idea of having more money in their pockets.

My grandfather used to say to me, “Jarrell, it’s a lot easier to save money than it is to make more”  I always thought that was pretty cleaver, and it’s really true, and growing up and now having my own house, I see these insane Gas and Electric bills coming in first hand.  It’s totally insane.  I admittedly I have a ridiculously un-efficient 100 year old beach house, but  nearly spend as much for my gas, power, as I do on my mortgage.  Saving money is easier than making more money.

Solar water heating can save you HUGE amounts of money.  More money than you probably know.  Over ten to 20 years, enough money to put 2 or 3 kids through college, and I’m not talking about community college, (not that there’s anything wrong with community college, my own Brookdale.).

If you’re a single guy like me, that takes one shower a day and does laundry once a week, the return on investment on installing a new Rheem Solar water heating system might take a decade to hit the break even point and start saving $$$.


However if there are 4 or more people in your home, your  using about 208,000 gallons of water a year, and heating about 85,000 gallons of water a year.  http://wiki.answers.com/Q/How_many_gallons_of_water_does_an_average_family_of_4_use_in_1_calendar_year Costing you anywhere from 5 – 10 thousand dollars if you’re paying for electric, propane, and even natural gas water heaters.  For you, Mr. or Mrs. Head of the household, a good solar water heating system with good sun exposure will save you up to 85% off your water heating bills,  and will keep tens of thousands of dollars in your pocket of it’s service life.

Down to the Nitty Griddy!

The Rheem solar water heater is not just a solar water heater tank; it’s the entire complete system which fully qualifies for the federal 1,500 tax energy efficiency credit program.  That’ s the big difference.  99% of all the companies selling solar water heaters just sell the tank, or collectors, not the entire system as the Rheem Solar system does.  Saving money is the reason you’re here, and Rheem’s solar system not only provides you with reliable, cheep, earth friendly hot water for years, it also has 1,500 reasons for you next tax season.  Unlike 95+% of all the “solar companies” out there.

If you live in cold weather environments like I do you will need an Active solar water heating system.  Active meaning = Frost protected.

The Rheem Solpak Active solar water heating system features.
Closed loop glycol design-
Double collector systems
*Included in the package:
Solaraide HE water tank, collectors, controller, adjustable pump, mixing valve, glycol solution (4 gallons) thermal expansion tank,

The Heat Exchanger Tank-
Double wall heat exchange: copper tubing wrap-around design
Single element backup heating source
¾” water and collector loop connections.

The Collectors
-Two sizes to choose from-
(2) 3×8 collectors, or (2) 4×8 collectors
Flat plate design
black paint absorber coating
OG-100 certified by SRCC

Solar water heating solutions by Rheem-   Solar Tank Options.

Solaraide -
Features: The Storage Tank  is very simmilar to the classic Rheem electric water heater, however it is stuffed with more than normal insulation to protect against heat loss.   The solaraide tank is aviable in (80)  or (119) gallon tanks.

Solaraide HE-
Features:  More than usual insulation to protect against heat loss, Solar heat exchanger, and electric heating elements for back up water heating needs.  The Solaraide HE  is aviable in (80)  or (119) gallon tanks.

Solar Indirect -
Features:  More than usual insulation to protect against heat loss, Solar storage tank with single wall internal heat exchanger and back-up heating element.   The Rheem solar indirect tank is aviable in (80)  or (119) gallon tanks.

Marathon-
Features:   Strong, polybutene material built to last.  Unique, corrosion resistant design will never rust, light wieght and easy to install, electric element back up heating source.

There are also passive, non freeze protecting version called the Solaraide passive water heating system.

Coming soon is the Solar Marathon active water heating system.    More on these systems in the near future…

Need a new Solar water heating system?   Well you’re in the right place.  We have 1 of only 18 licensed solar water heating installers in Connecticut working with us (Tredau Solar Heating).  Call us today for your estimate  (203) 556 – 6449

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

When you commit to a secure alternative energy source to protect you and your family, you send an unspoken message that asserts your belief in self-reliance, and freedom from energy companies rate hikes & mishaps.

Today’s modern culture has developed an infrastructure that brings us incredible convenience, it has also created a complex and intertwined chain of dependency for all energy consumers on the North American power grid.

Over the last half-decade, a new awareness has slowly dawned as society has had time to reflect on
its growing vulnerability. Ageing refineries, power plants, sub- stations, combined with high voltage transmission lines and their accompanying out-of-date computer control systems leave families and businesses susceptible to periodic blackouts, at their current conditions.

Now the magnitude of risk associated with short-term storm outages, or even catastrophic disruption of the power grid, along with susceptibility to unreasonable and often substantial rate hikes, all combine to make energy independence even more beneficial.

As a life-long resident of the North East of USA, I know first hand how scary the world can get when electricity suddenly disappears. During the “black out of 03″, August 14, 2003 to be exact, a series of power surges over a 12-second period triggered a cascade of shut downs at more than 100 generating plants throughout eight U.S. states and Ontario.  The result was the biggest blackout in North American history. 61,800 megawatts of power were lost to over 50 million people. All of New York City was brought to a screeching halt, millions of people walked out of Manhattan to whatever nearest persons house they could find within a few miles walk.  Cell phones were down.  Ferry’s to New Jersey were over loaded with tens of thousands of people at the same time.

The maybe not so obvious, but the fact is that currently our energy flows from our local power plants and provide electricity to our homes and business non stop.  It can not be stored like water, food, or medicin, in case of an emergency.  It has to be produced to meet our needs continuously.  Not true for those of us that have a nice solar water heating and electric set up.

How Solar Energy Works – Great Explanation.

How solar water heaters work.

To learn more about solar water heating systems check out this link.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

Solar Water Heaters soon to be a Washington mandate?

Some day in the future electric and gas water heaters will become a thing of the past, but some states a moving the future to the now with mandates of solar water heater installations for new building codes.


Hawaii and California now have legislation that requires solar water heaters to be installed in new construction by specific dates. Now the State of Washington is also looking into enacting such legislation, with the introduction on House Bill 1187 (2009-10) on January 14th, and is currently scheduled for a public hearing on January 22nd. I understand other states have (or will have) legislation for this system as well. 

I personally don’t want lawmakers  to tell me what kinds of heating system I can put in my own home.  However most of us understand the intent of making things better for all, and solar hot water is a positive step toward a better future.

Both federal government & state governments are offering incentives such as rebates and tax credits. Which together absorb half the the cost, making it practical for anyone financing, or buying a new home.  Borrowing an extra 5 – 7k in a 30 year mortgage will only see about a 20-30 dollar  payment increase,   saving could be as high as 150 dollars per month.

The US Department of Energy has an Consumer Guide for solar hot water that addresses and it is full of great information for anyone thinking of converting their conventional system. http://apps1.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_home/water_heating/index.cfm/mytopic=12850

Anyone interested in reading Washington States House Bill 1187 can find more information here; http://apps.leg.wa.gov/billinfo/summary.aspx?bill=1187&year=2009

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

I heard about this over a year ago, and just saw a little something about it again.
I thought it was interesting enough to share it here.

HONOLULU – All new homes in Hawaii will be required to have solar water heaters installed starting in 2010 under a law approved by the Legislature.

Hawaii becomes the first state requiring the energy-saving systems in homes.

Solar water heaters typically cost home buyers about $5,000 extra on their mortgage, but island residents will save thousands of dollars over the years on their electricity bills, supporters said.

“We owe to our children and grandchildren the promise of a clean and renewable energy future,” said Rep. Hermina Morita, chairwoman of the House Energy Committee. “A solar water heater mandate in new home construction … will result in greater public benefits to everyone at large.”

Solar water heaters reduce residents’ electricity costs between 30 percent and 35 percent — up to $150 per month for a family of four on Kauai, said Morita, D-Hanalei-Kapaa. With those kind of savings, their initial expense is usually paid off in three to four-and-a-half years.

Opponents of the measure said it would unfairly drive up costs to home buyers.

Lawmakers described a government requirement for solar water heaters as a way to protect the environment, reduce Hawaii’s heavy reliance on foreign energy sources and save money.

“There are significant and quantifiable environmental benefits, energy security benefits and economic development benefits,” said Sen. Gary Hooser, D-Kauai-Niihau. “This measure lowers the net cost of home ownership and will cost nothing in terms of the state budget to implement.”

The bill passed unanimously in the House and 23-2 in the Senate.

The bill also ends current state solar tax credits beginning in 2010 worth about $2,500 in savings on purchases of solar water heaters.

Some legislators said they weren’t comfortable with a law that takes away residents’ ability to decide for themselves what kind of water heater they want to buy.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

Their are many companies offering solar water tanks these days, but primarily we use the Rheem solar aide.  Here is some  information about it.

Rheem Solaraide HE 80  and 120 Gallon Solar Storage Tank

Product Benefits:
• Saves you money – Reduces your monthly utility costs
• Saves the environment – Reduces fossil fuel consumption

Product Applications:
• For Residential Direct Solar Systems

Product Features:
• Brass drain valve
• Choice of two model; storage tank or single element water heater,
• both specially equipped for installation with residential direct solar
• systems
• Temperature and pressure relief valve
• Collector feed and return fittings located at front of tank for
• convenient installation
• Isolated tank design for better heat retention
• High efficiency heating element
• Rheemglas® tank lining resists corrosion and prolongs tank life
• Patented R-Foam® insulation process
• Cold water inlet brings cold water to tank bottom to prevent
• mixing with heated water
• Anode rod equalizes aggressive water action for prolonged tank life
• Cold water inlet, hot water outlet, relief valve and anode rod at top
• of tank for easy access and fast, economical installation
• Automatic temperature control
• Over temperature protector

Product Warranty: 6-Year Limited Tank and Parts Warranty

Energy Information: Approx. R-Factor: R-17.3
• Energy Factor and Average Annual Operating Costs based on D.O.E.
• (Department of Energy) test procedures. D.O.E. national average fuel
• rate electricity 8.41¢/KWH
• Meets all current state requirements for solar storage tanks

The tank goes for about  $1,750.00  retail at your local plumbing supply store.
You should call your local supply store that carries Rheem and ask .   Like all water heaters/ tanks etc we can almost always find them less expensive than your typical plumbing store, however shipping costs could significantly hamper the savings as this tank is very large and heavy – expensive to ship.

Here’s a great picture of what the Rheem Solar Aide HE  looks like installed.

Solar Aid Installed

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

Compare Solar to Conventional Water Heater

Benefits of Solar Water Heating

Solar Water Heaters Work In Every Climate

Today’s Solar hot water technologies can be operated efficiently and affordable in any climate. Systems are specifically designed for various climatic and geographical areas of the country.

Reduce Energy Costs

By installing a Solar water heating system, a typical household can meet 50 to 80 percent of their hot water needs. In southern climates, a solar water heater unit can meet nearly 100 percent of a household’s hot water needs.

Proven Efficient Technology

Currently there are more than 300,000 Solar Water Heater units installed across the United States (excluding swimming pool applications) and because these systems have been proven efficient and reliable, the number of installations continues to grow by the thousands every year.

Improved Environment

Reduced demand for fossil fuels will improve the environment by reducing air and water pollution as well as the heat-trapping gases that cause global warming. And though they cost a little bit more up front to install, a carbon free Solar Water Heating system will save consumers money in the long run as the fuel source (the sun’s energy) will always be free.

Reasons for Installing Solar Water Heating systems:

• Solar water heating reduces the monthly operating expense of the household.
• Reduced operating expenses give homeowners more cash for discretionary purposes,  savings, etc.
• Solar water heaters are the only home appliance that saves money without reducing comfort or convenience.
• Solar water heating is a hedge against higher future energy costs, which are a certainty.
• Reduce dependence on foreign oil and the need to build expensive new power plants.
• Solar is environmentally safe, conserves resources and reduces air pollution which causes acid rain, the “Greenhouse Effect” and respiratory health problems.
• No moving parts to fail or maintain.
• The unit doubles the hot water supply of the house when added to an existing water heater.
• 10 Year Factory Warranty including freeze damage.
• Design life of 30+ years.
• Solar Energy is technology that contains the cost of the fuel in the initial price of the equipment.
• Can be used as a stand alone heater; great for remote areas or where no electric is available for heating water.
• Can be installed on almost any house as a retrofit, connecting to the existing water heater.
• Can be installed on the roof or the ground.
• The best time to install a solar water heater is when a home is being built. The homeowner is immediately in a positive cash flow position because the utility savings are far greater than the mortgage payment increment for the solar water heater.

Solar water heating systems will add about 20-30 dollars more in a mortgage payment, but you will instantly be saving 50- 80% of your water heating bill, which is 12-20% of your total energy bill. So for you of those that still don’t get it. You would in theory spend $20 more in you monthly mortgage payment, to save $80 dollars a month in energy bills, and that’s a great return on investment.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

State incentives:   http://www.dsireusa.org/index.cfm

Regional / National
Rebate Information:
For more information on energy tax credits, visit: energytaxincentives.org

Local utilities:    Across America local utilities are joining Federal and State Government to offer incentives in the form of rebates for going solar.  Check with your local utility and find out if rebates and financing are available for going solar.   In my area of Connecticut:

Northeast Utilities Service www.nu.com                (860) 665-5000
Regional Water Authority www.rwater.com (203) 735-1888
Groton Utilities www.grotonutilities.com (860) 446-4000
UIL Holdings Corporation www.uil.com/      (203) 499-2000
Norwich Public Utilities www.norwichpublicutilities.com  (860) 887-2555

Federal tax credits info:

http://www.dsireusa.org/incentives/incentive.cfm?Incentive_Code=US37F&State=Federal&currentpageid=1

For example of a state incentive, SMUD (Sacramento Municipal Utility District),offers a rebate of $1500 to its customers who want to replace their electric water heaters with solar water heaters. SolarRoofs.com is a SMUD approved contractor and participates in this rebate program. SMUD also provides financing for its customers who are making the switch from electric to solar water heaters. SMUD is offering its solar rebate until December 31, 2008 or when funding is depleted.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.

Your Water Heater May Use More Energy

Than Anything Else in Your Home!

With a 30% Federal Tax Credit, many state incentives, huge increases in energy costs, 4 to 5 times the power density of Solar Electric PV and the great need to stop pollution and global warming, there has never been a better time to buy a solar water heater. IT TRULY PAYS TO GO SOLAR: Typical returns are 12 to 30% and on a refinance or new home you usually receive an instantaneous positive cash flow!

You Can Receive a 3 to 7 Year ROI!*

Be Less Dependent and Be More Independent!

Now you see how the solar water heater really makes sense by paying for itself quickly!  The Solar water heaters we use are  high quality systems that will be providing your family with hot water for decades.  While your family grows, so do your solar savings! Since you own your home, why rent your energy?  Produce your own energy and watch the savings grow!

The Florida State Energy Office Estimates that the average all electric Florida home uses 30% of its total electric energy – just to heat water!

Over 50% of families prefer solar! California’s Association of Realtors found that over 50% of families would be willing to pay more for a home with solar energy on it and that 60% would be more interested in buying a home with solar on it than one without. The research was done for the CA CEC in March 2002.

California’s energy consumption could be reduced by over 2% by supplementing enough gas, propane and electric water heaters with solar water heaters. This move would do enormous good for California’s economy, significantly reduce pollution and free up large amounts of natural gas during peak times to produce electricity. This principle could apply to most other states as well.

Solar Estimator of  $$$  Savings.

The Solar Estimator below is meant only to give you an idea of price, savings and system size. The results are based upon many assumptions and the limited data you will enter. An actual site assessment by a qualified Solar Pro will be needed to determine the actual costs and benefits of installing a solar system. Please read the results screen carefully, including the extensive list of Notes and Assumptions.

Use the FindSolar “My Solar Estimator”

1. Southern Orientation – Since the sun rises in the East, crosses over the horizon on the South and sets in the West, you want your collector to face as much to True South on your roof as possible. This is especially true for space heating where you need to be within 15 degrees of True South. Click Here: Homepower true south article.

Up to 45 degrees East or West of true South has very little effect on year round domestic water heating. While less desirable, a West or even an East facing water heating system can work well, especially with an additional collector. Orientations over 45 degrees, such as a home with a North-South ridgeline can tilt the collectors South with a tilt kit.

While most collectors are mounted on the roof, many have been mounted on the ground, or on an awning on the side of the house. Verticle mounting of collectors on the South roof is great for space heating. Naturally, it is important that there not be any shading where the collectors will go!

You will need a good tilt kit.

The collector angle is known as “tilt.” While a typical roof angle is 22 to 32 degrees, the tilt should be at least 15 degrees up from horizontal. Additional tilt usually has little effect on total year-round performance unless you are in an area with very sunny winters like Colorado.

A tilt angle equal to latitude is considered ideal for space heating because the winter sun is so low in the sky, great results have been obtained by having collectors flush on a vertical wall for space heating, which also prevents summer overheating.

You need space for your solar collectors.

Today’s solar collectors come in a variety of shapes and sizes.  you can have near square collectors, to 8 inch thick x 6 feet long rectangle shapes. Some companies even over a variety of colors so the collectors will match the color of your house, or trim.

You need a good path for your solar lines from collectors to solar storage tank.

You need a good “path” for your two solar lines and wires to go from your tank to your South facing roof. It is desirable that this “path” be under 40 feet (one way), but up to 80 feet (if well insulated) is OK.

You will be running two 1/2″ outside diameter copper tubes with a minimum of 1/2″ thick high temperature insulation. You will also be running at least one wire set on the outside of the insulation for either power from a PV panel to the pump and/or a sensor wire for a differential controller. Horizontal lines need to be supported every six feet.

There are 3 different types of solar water heating systems!
You need to know the right System Type for your area!

With these systems the solar loop is open to water pressure. They are excellent where there is anywhere from no freeze potential (tropical) to where there is light freeze potential (temperate) when used with light freeze protection options.

-THE OPEN LOOP SYSTEM-.

Tropical Climate (GREEN) Systems are good for areas like the Florida Keys, Caribbean, Hawaii and all other areas with Absolutely No Freeze conditions or temperatures below 40°F.

Temperate Climate (ORANGE) Systems include light freeze protection options and are good for Central Florida, Southern California and other areas where the temperature rarely goes down to 30°F with absolutely No Hard Freeze. These systems must be drained and any remaining water in the collector lines blown out with air if a hard freeze may occur.

-CLOSED LOOP SYSTEMS-

Freeze Climates (RED)

The solar loop is separated from water pressure by a storage tank with an internal heat exchanger. These systems are not subject to freeze damage when properly installed. These systems are also used in areas where bad water quality may plug up or destroy the copper tubing in the collectors.

For the most professional installation make sure your plumber is a Solar Certified, like our own C.A. Trudeau.

We provide top quality plumbing information about services, free estimates, installations and repairs on all Rheem, Ruud, Bradford white, State, and A.O. Smith electric, gas, propane, Bock, Thermaflow/Everhot oil fired hot water heaters, Navien, Rheem, Noritz, and Takagi tankless water heaters, Ruud, Bock, and lochinvar oil fired water heaters, SuperStor storage tanks, Peerless, Laars, and Crown tankless coils, Solar water heating installations, and repairs on all hot water heater throughout the state of Connecticut including Bridgeport, CT- Bristol, CT- Cheshire, CT- Danbury,CT- Derby,CT- East Hartford,CT- East Haven,CT- Enfield,CT- Fairfield,CT- Hamden,CT- Hartford,CT- Meriden,CT- Orange,CT- Middletown,CT- Milford,CT- New Britain,CT- New Haven,CT- New London,CT- Norwalk,CT- East Norwalk,CT- Norwich,CT- Putnam,CT- Shelton,CT- Southington,CT- Stamford,CT- Stratford,CT- Southport,CT- Torrington,CT- Wallingford,CT- Watertown,CT- West Hartford,CT- West Haven,CT- Westport,CT- Wethersfield,CT- Willimantic,CT- all shore areas, and surrounding Connecticut areas.