Is solar right for you?

Solar hot water systems are a sensible choice for residential water heating.  Even in a climate like Toronto’s, these systems can provide half or more of your home’s hot water with nothing more than the warmth of the sun.  Toronto is actually a good solar location because we receive plenty of sunshine – we actually have better solar conditions than Germany, the world leader in solar hot water use.

Solar water heating is a proven technology that uses the heat from the sun to pre-heat the water going into your existing hot water tank or on-demand water heater. Unlike photovoltaic or “PV” solar panels, these systems do not produce electricity, but rather produce heat that you can use directly in your home, making it the most efficient and most cost-effective solar technology available to homeowners. And there are a wide variety of system designs and types to choose from. Generally, solar collectors are mounted on a south-facing sloped or flat roof. Fluid (water or glycol) flows through the panel and is heated by the sun. It then runs down to a solar storage tank connected to your existing hot water heater. Your water heater only turns on if the solar-heated water still needs a temperature boost. Hot water flows out of your taps just like it always has, but your hot water heating bill could be cut almost by half. And you will also reduce greenhouse gas and other air polluting emissions from your home!

• Do you have a south-facing sloped roof or a flat roof where panels could be installed facing south?
• Does this roof area (you'll need about a 2 x 4 metre area) get full sun from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. year round?
• Are you planning to redo your roof in the near future (best to do this before installing the solar panels)?
• Do you have room for a second water tank in your basement? If not, would you consider installing an on-demand water heater?

Heating hot water can account for up to a quarter of your family’s energy bills, so solar water heating is a great way to address rising utility costs and save money.

Get started — request an info kit today or call 416-392-6795

'