User:Energy Cube System Review Tab
If you're thinking on a smaller scale a solar heated Energy Cube System water system is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to save money with solar energy. There are about 1.5 million solar hot water systems already installed in the US. This type of installation is even required for all new homes built in Hawaii after January 1, 2010. It is predicted that this will cut the state's oil consumption by as much as 30,000 barrels every year, and the average family will see an annual savings of about $600.
A solar water system is one solar upgrade that is covered by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as well. The US government is offering a tax credit of 30% (up to $2000) of the cost of materials and installation for a solar hot water system. If you're really budget conscious there are plenty of DIY hot water heater kits. These kits are relatively easy to install, and they will save you some money, but if you hire a contractor expect to pay between $1500 and $3000 to implement your new system.
That's quite a bit more than a conventional hot water system, but a solar hot water heater should pay for itself within 4 to 8 years, and they're typically low maintenance, with no major repairs needed for the first 15 to 20 years. Your contractor can combine your solar hot water system with a conventional system to ensure that you will always have hot water.
