The Commercial Process

The process starts with a call to us followed by a prompt site visit to ascertain if the site and use are suitable for solar hot water. Specifically, we assess the following;

• The roof for adequate area and exposure for solar hot water panels
• The roof structure and if structural enhancements are necessary
• The mechanical issues
  • A potential  location for solar storage tank, mechanicals, and plumbing runs
  • The viability of existing hot water system and any need to upgrade during the solar hot water retrofit

• Existing hot water usage
  • We measure the usage over a test period with an ultrasonic meter with data logging

Metering the existing usage is critical. Unfortunately, the solar hot water industry is rife with ‘rules of thumb’ such as 15 gallons/occupant (for a residential buildings) or 4 gallons/ plate (for a restaurant). Slightly better yet are the ASHRAE sizing techniques, and looking at fuel bills. But, there is no substitute for simply measuring the ‘real world’ usage, and reconciling that data with the fuel bills.

We do not bill for any of this; there are no consultant fees, no charge for the site survey, the water use study, or the financial analysis. Our proposals are short and to the point. There are not pages of boiler plate about social responsibility and the environmental impact of a solar hot water investment. You do get a financial analysis with an IRR, a payback schedule, and clear understanding of the tax credits and incentives and how to obtain them.