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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar Collectors and Solar Energy
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Q. is solar water heating a dependable, practical alternative to conventional heating and cooling systems like gas and electricity?
A. The answer to this question is both yes and no. Solar is used as a supplement to the system you currently have. Solar cannot totally replace the need for gas and electricity because there are times when the solar energy is just not available. There are times when there is little or no sunlight available such as nighttime, cloudy days, and during weather storms. When averages over a year, a well selected solar system should afford 65-75% of a residential home's hot water needs. It is not recommended to buy a system that supplied more than 100% at any time. A system that provides well over 100% during the summer months will result in too much heat being produced. The solar energy system can be easily automated so that solar energy is being collected regardless of sunshine levels.
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Q. Do any of your solar customers complain about the solar collector being too noticeable on the roof - making their house less aesthetically appealing?
A. Most Customers report positive experiences with their solar collectors and feel that their systems blend in with the roof nicely. If only the collector is mounted on the roof it should blend in nicely. Our collectors are very thin, easy to install, and can be mounted flush on the roof. From a distance they are mistaken sometimes as a skylight.
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Q. Will my collector absorb energy on an overcast day?
A. Yes, your solar collector will create solar produced hot water even on cloudy days, though the heat output will be reduced. If it is raining or overcast, then your conventional system may need to be increased to provide you with all of the hot water you may need, This system can be manufactured to be automated so that you never run out of hot water.
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Q. How long will it take me to get a return on my investment?
A. Not all solar energy systems are identical, whether comparing prices or in the quality of materials used. TJ's and Viessmann boast the use of excellent materials used, attention to detail, and costs that will make your system very affordable in the long run. In fact, we even predict that your system may remain functional for the life of your house! Our solar collectors are much more affordable than many other solar water heaters. For a four person residence, the cost of a full system may not be too much more than a new electric or gas system. Savings will differ based on a number of factors such as geographic location and the shading of trees around the house. That being said, for a normal household that spends 25% of its electricity bill on hot water, the full cost can be recouped as soon as 4-6 years in reduced bills. Given that our solar water heaters are designed to last for decades, you will have a considerable savings in the long run.
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Click here for more answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.
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