Once you have decided that a solar hot water system is a good energy option for you, make sure your project planning involves: 

 

A Licensed Installer.  A professional can install your solar hot water system properly and help with paperwork for permits and incentives.  Get project bids from at least 3 companies to help you compare all project costs, including materials, labor, potential structure upgrades, maintenance and warranties.

   

1. What experience, licenses and certifications do you have? 
2. What do you know about zoning, plumbing requirements, and local codes? 
3. Do you handle paperwork for permitting?  
4. What warranties and maintenance service do you offer? 
5. Do you offer American-made products and do you hire from local solar job training programs? 
   

 

Proper Permitting. Call your city planning office to check on the necessary permits related to solar hot water installations.

Warranties and Insurance. Most solar hot water collectors come with a 5-10 year warranty. Warranties of 1-2 years for the full system and parts/labor are generally available. Check with your insurance agent to make sure your  insurance policy will cover the system and to see if you need to be aware of any installation issues such as structure requirements for mounting the system on your roof.

 

Maintenance. You should review system maintenance instructions with your system provider. Most vendors recommend maintenance every 3-5 years.  Plumbing and other conventional water heating components require the same maintenance as conventional systems. Glazing may need to be cleaned after a long period of no rain.