Frequently Asked Questions:

How long will it take to recoup my investment?
For a property that spends 25% of its electricity bill on hot water heating, the payback can be as quickly as 3-5 years. After the payback, you can enjoy free hot water for an additional 20-25 years.

Is solar water heating a viable alternative to gas or electricity?
Yes. When averaged over a year, a correctly sized solar system can provide 70%-100% of your hot water needs. The hot water system works with your existing boiler for guaranteed performance, regardless of sunlight levels.

Why use solar heat now?

Financial:
Solar hot water and heat is a guaranteed return on investment. Federal and state governments offer generous financial incentives to businesses that choose solar energy. These incentives make solar a smart and cost-effective investment.

Environmental:
Solar hot water and heat reduces your carbon footprint by 65%. Solar Thermal is a clean, renewable way to generate heat and hot water.

National:
A system by Solar USA shows your commitment to decreasing our dependence on foreign oil. The more solar systems we use, the less money we give to less-than-friendly nations. This issue is very important to us, and is why we strive to offer the most dependable, efficient systems in the nation.

Is it easy for businesses to switch over to solar energy?
Solar USA makes it incredibly simple to switch over. We provide a total energy solution, from the initial inspection and design to the  installation of your complete system. You will enjoy the benefits of a Solar USA system immediately after the installation.

Will the Solar Panels work on my building?
Solar Panels work on virtually every commercial, industrial and residential home. To make sure solar can work on your rooftop, call us for an inspection today. 718-784-4239.

Can solar collectors be used in cold conditions?
Absolutely. Our collectors can be used in temperatures as low as -30 degrees Celsius. The difference in performance between winter and summer is approximately 5%.

Can a Solar Tube Break? How Easy is it to Replace?

Solar tubes are very strong and not easily broken, but if the worst should happen, solar tubes can be quickly and easily replaced. Replacing a solar tube is like replacing a florescent bulb. Our solar collectors can operate with several broken tubes, but the efficiency will be reduced, so it is recommended that broken tubes be replaced immediately.

Will water be heated on a cloudy day?

Yes. Although the heat output of the solar collector is reduced on overcast days it will still be able to provide hot water. Due to the high efficiency of our solar storage tanks, they can store the previous day's hot water for several days.

Can I use a solar collector with my existing hot water system?
Yes. Your new hot water solar system becomes your primary hot water with your existing hot-water heater becoming your backup.

Are the solar collectors noticeable on the roof?
If the collector is mounted on the roof it should blend into the roof design quite well. Our solar collectors are very thin and can be flush mounted on a roof. From a distance they look somewhat like a skylight. You may have to check with your local building department regarding building restrictions when installing your solar collector.

Can your solar collectors be mounted on a flat surface?

Yes. They may be mounted on a flat roof, or on the ground by using a stainless steel roof frame. The collector in this area should be installed at a 60 degree angle to ensure optimal performance during the months of December through February.

How do I protect my solar system during subzero temperatures?

We use propelene glycol (a non-toxic, food-grade anti-freeze) as our circulating fluid from the solar collector to the built-in heat exchanger in our solar storage tank. This fluid will never freeze and will protect your system in sub-zero temperatures.

Will the solar collector be a fire hazard during hot, dry weather?
No. The solar collector's components are all high temperature rated and non-flammable so even during strong sunlight with the circulation pump turned off (stagnation), the system will not catch alight or give off any sparks. The majority of the solar collector's components are stainless steel, aluminum, glass or glass wool. The manifold outlet is fitted with a temperature relief valve, which will prevent the manifold temperature from exceeding 99 degrees C / 212 degrees F.

Can the solar collector heat water to a high enough temperature?

Yes. The system will be designed to provide a daily temperature rise of around 100 degrees Fahrenheit year round. We sensibly size solar water heating system to ensure optimal performance and minimal wastage of water.

What maintenance of the solar collector is required?

Under normal circumstances no maintenance of the system is required. Due to the shape of the tubes, regular rainfall and wind helps keep the tubes clean. Should a tube brake we recommend replacing it. This, however, is an easy job. Our solar collectors can operate with several broken tubes, however, the efficiency will be reduced slightly.

Can your solar collectors be used for a large scale hot water production?
Yes, as large as you need! Our solar collectors can be connected in series or parallel to provide large scale hot water production for a commercial settings such as a school, hotel or office building. There is really no limit to the size of the system, however collectors must be installed in banks of no more than 150 tubes (in series), otherwise the water may boil.

Can I heat my swimming pool or spa using your system?

Yes. Our collectors are high temperature collectors, and are therefore ideal for both.

What are the other benefits of my Solar-Thermal system?
Powering your hot water with solar has many benefits beyond the financial savings. Switching to solar hot water is also a cost-free marketing strategy; studies show that the public responds overwhelmingly positive to businesses and homes that take steps to implement energy-conscious and renewable technologies. When your business and home assume a role in helping to reduce global warming  through solar energy, it demonstrates a commitment to the future health of the planet.

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