Our solar generation went online in January of 2022. Since then, we’ve been running a surplus and seeking the most efficient way to utilize our energy production. I mentioned this to my uncle, and he had the perfect solution. “I just removed a 40 gallon electric hot water heater from one of my rental units. I replaced it with a new one, but, after taking it apart, the only problem is a corroded heating element.”
- My uncle has the tools as well as the know-how to complete the install.
- Graduating from Syracuse University with a B.S in Electrical Engineering a M.S. in Computer Engineering, a minor in Mechanical Engineering and having significant residential electrical wiring experience, my uncle was able to help me confidently accomplish the electrical and plumbing work that was required.
- The only upfront cost was ~$100 in PEX fittings and piping. Since the hot water heater was “recycled,” net carbon footprint from production of our energy storage system is near zero.
- Grahams think projects like this are fun.
- Wired for 120V, the power demand is able to best utilized and not exceed the solar production when heating the water.
- If it was wired for 240V, the power demand would be 4500W.
- Wired for 120V, the power demand of 1125W provides many hours of operation below the production output of our rated 5.5kW solar array.
- A timer can be utilized to power the heater at the optimal time of day and compensate for seasonal changes in solar production.
- Running a solar “credit” with Eversource in New Hampshire only allows you to “cash in” once per year after the March billing cycle, so it’s most practical to find a way to utilize the energy you are producing.
- The versatile piping configuration allows for the two systems to work together or individually.
- 40 gallons of hot water is sufficient for two people for normal usage (we can both take piping hot showers in the evening after the sun has gone down without any need for electric).
- If guests are over or someone wants to take a bath, the on-demand system can be put in series with the electric system, so there is no concern for drop in hot water supply temperature, but the stored energy is still utilized to the maximum extent.
- The on-demand propane hot water heater can also be utilized as the sole source of hot water if the electric hot water heater requires maintenance or visa versa.
