Solar Water Heating for Your Home

The CSI-Thermal Program closed to new applications on July 31, 2020. Applicants with projects that have received a confirmed reservation are still able to complete their projects and submit their incentive claim within their 18-month reservation window. 

What is Solar Water Heating?

Solar water heating systems provide homes in sunny climates with hot water. As opposed to traditional systems that use natural gas, solar water heating harnesses the power of the sun to heat water. They function by collecting solar thermal energy to raise the temperature of heat transfer fluid. Once properly heated, the fluid is pumped into a heat exchanger which warms a tank of water that feeds into a residential hot water tank.

Why should I purchase a solar water heating system?

As Southern California is  typically very sunny, its residents are in a unique position to take advantage of solar water heating technology. For much of the year, homeowners can get some of the hot water they need to take baths and showers, do the dishes or take a dip in the jacuzzi while using less natural gas. Over the course of the year, having a solar water heating system installed can provide meaningful savings on utility costs.

How do I get hot water at night or on cloudy days?

Since solar water heating systems work in concert with existing natural gas systems, homeowners will continue to have reliable access to their usual amount of hot water. When the sun is shining, the solar water heating system does all the work. On nights and cloudy days, the existing system kicks in to handle hot water needs.