There has been a lot of talk recently about how we all need to do our part to make our world a greener place to live in. A great way to start pitching in is by simply making a few changes right in your own home. Changing out your old hot water heater for a newer more efficient version is both simple, eco-friendly, and goes a long way towards helping our environment.

Older electric water heaters consume larger amounts of energy than either their natural gas or oil fired counterparts. More energy usage creates a higher demand on our local power plants. Studies show that a typical family of four using a traditional electric water heater over the course of one year, uses enough energy to cause a typical power plant to emit about eight tons of carbon dioxide into our air. This is almost double the carbon dioxide fumes emitted by a typical family automobile. A family of four using a natural gas or oil fired water heater over the same period of time will only contribute around two tons of carbon dioxide into the air. By switching from your old electric water heater you can save energy, utility costs, and the air we breathe.

Solar water heaters are also a good choice. Several homes have sufficient access to sunlight to have a solar water heater installed with no problems. They can also work in all climates.

Solar water heaters also offer some financial benefits. Although the initial cost is more, between $1500.00 and $3500.00 for a solar water heater versus $150.00 and $450.00 for an electric or gas water heater, you will immediately see the savings in your electric or natural gas bills. The amount you will save in energy bills will pay for the new solar water heater on average in four to eight years.

Solar water heaters last just as long as more conventional water heaters, on average 15-40 years. After the initial time it takes for your solar system to pay for itself, paying zero in energy costs virtually means free hot water for you and your family. More savings can be found by checking with your tax consultant. Starting in 2005 the US government began offering homeowners up to 30% tax credit off the cost of installing their new solar powered water heater. Restrictions do apply, so be sure to check with you tax professional for details.

If you decide that installing a solar water heater is right for you and your family, be sure to hire a qualified professional to help you with this project. Certified installers will be familiar with any zoning and building codes in your area as well as if you will need a building permit for installation. For help finding a professional in your area, check with Five Star Consumer Referrals, Inc.