A solar water heater seems like a no-brainer for anyone living in Arizona. You can get it for about one-third of the sticker price by taking advantage of state and federal tax credits and utility rebates. Plus, it could save you $200 or more a year on your water-heating bills.
Solar panels installed on your roof so the sun can help power your house present homeowners with a more complicated decision. They might not be right for everyone. Here are a few things to consider before investing in solar panels:
- Do you own your home? Renters can save energy and reduce their electric bills with solar equipment, but unless the landlord is willing to pay for it, you’re unlikely to get your money out of it.
- Does your roof face south? Photovoltaic panels are most effective facing south. You can install them on east-west-facing roofs, but they’re more obvious, produce less electricity and might not qualify for the same utility rebates as south-facing panels.
- How old is your home? If it was built before the 1920s, the roof might not be strong enough to support the weight of the panels. You can reinforce your roof, but it will bump the price of the installation up considerably. The good news: The 30 percent federal tax credit may cover some of the cost of upgrading the roof.
- Can you afford it? You can get a $6,000 solar water heater for as little as $1,800 after tax credits and utility rebates, but solar panels cost more. A solution for those who can’t make the up-front investment but want to benefit from lower electric bills: Some companies rent solar panels, starting at $80 a month. The leasing company takes the tax credit and utility rebate, but the homeowner enjoys the reduced energy costs.
- Is your income high enough for you to claim federal and state tax credits? If not, leasing might be an option for you.
Going solar makes so much sense for most of us in Arizona. It allows us to shrink our “footprint” on the planet, to save money, to add resale value to our homes, and to take pride in our responsible use of energy.
Just make sure it’s the responsible choice for you, your family and your house before you tap the sun.
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