RENW, Author at Renewable Energy NW LLC
RENW, Author at Renewable Energy NW LLC
CALL: 208-577-6537

IDAHO! Ditch the Tank! Embrace the Heat

OR – Why You Should Switch to a Heat Pump Water Heater!

For years, the trusty hot water heater in your basement or garage has faithfully delivered warm showers and clean dishes. But like a loyal old dog, its time might be coming to an end. And while the thought of replacing it might seem daunting, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to upgrade to a more efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option: the heat pump water heater.

If you’re not familiar with them, heat pump water heaters might sound a bit futuristic. But they’re quickly becoming the smart choice for homeowners looking to save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Forget the old tank-style behemoths; these sleek, modern units use a fraction of the energy to heat your water.

So, how do they work? Instead of directly heating water with electricity or gas, heat pump water heaters extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it to the water in the tank. Think of it like a reverse air conditioner. This clever process means they can achieve the same hot water with significantly less energy.

Let’s dive into the compelling benefits of making the switch:

Slash Your Energy Bills: This is the big one. Heat pump water heaters are incredibly energy efficient, often using 50-70% less energy than traditional electric water heaters. That translates to significant savings on your monthly utility bills. Imagine what you could do with that extra cash!

Eco-Friendly Hot Water: By using less energy, you’re also reducing your environmental impact. Fewer fossil fuels burned means a smaller carbon footprint and a healthier planet. It’s a win-win for you and Mother Earth.

Faster Recovery Times: While they might take a little longer to initially heat the tank, heat pump water heaters often have faster recovery times than traditional electric models. This means you won’t run out of hot water as quickly, even during peak usage.

Potential Rebates and Incentives: Many utility companies and government agencies offer rebates and incentives for homeowners who install energy-efficient appliances like heat pump water heaters. This can significantly reduce the upfront cost of the upgrade. Check with your local utility company for available programs.

Increased Home Value: Upgrading to a heat pump water heater is a smart investment that can increase the value of your home. Buyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient features, and this is a great selling point.

Quieter Operation: Compared to some older water heater models, heat pump water heaters operate much more quietly. You’ll barely notice they’re running.

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Switching to a heat pump water heater is a smart move for Idaho homeowners who want to save money, reduce their environmental impact, and enjoy a reliable supply of hot water. While the upfront cost might be a bit higher, the long-term benefits make it a worthwhile investment. So, ditch the tank and embrace the heat – your wallet and the planet will thank you for it!

Ready to make the switch? Contact Renewable Energy NW to discuss your options and get a quote. We can help you choose the right size and model for your home and ensure a proper installation.

The Benefits of Solar Thermal Radiant Flooring

Solar thermal radiant flooring is an innovative and sustainable heating solution that offers a multitude of benefits for homeowners and the environment. By harnessing the sun’s energy to warm floors, this system provides efficient, comfortable, and eco-friendly heating. Let’s delve into the key advantages of this technology.

Energy Efficiency and Cost Savings:

Solar thermal radiant flooring systems are highly energy efficient. They utilize solar collectors, typically mounted on the roof, to absorb sunlight and transfer the heat to a fluid, usually water or a water-glycol mixture. This heated fluid is then circulated through a network of pipes embedded within the floor, radiating warmth upwards into the living space.

This method of heating is significantly more efficient than traditional forced-air systems. While forced-air systems lose a considerable amount of heat through ductwork, radiant floor heating delivers warmth directly to the floor, minimizing energy waste. Moreover, because radiant heat warms objects and people directly, rather than just the air, it allows for comfortable temperatures at lower thermostat settings, further reducing energy consumption.

By relying on solar energy as the primary heat source, homeowners can significantly reduce their reliance on fossil fuels and lower their monthly energy bills. The initial investment in a solar thermal radiant flooring system can be offset by long-term energy savings, making it a cost-effective solution in the long run.

Superior Comfort and Even Heat Distribution:

Radiant floor heating provides a level of comfort that is unmatched by conventional heating systems. The warmth emanates evenly from the floor, creating a consistent and comfortable temperature throughout the room. This eliminates the cold spots and temperature fluctuations often experienced with forced-air systems.

The gentle, radiant heat feels natural and cozy, warming the feet and rising to create a pleasant environment. This type of heating also reduces the circulation of dust, allergens, and other airborne particles, improving indoor air quality and creating a healthier living space.

Quiet and Invisible Operation:

Unlike noisy forced-air systems that blow air through vents, radiant floor heating operates silently. There are no fans or blowers to create noise, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and other areas where quiet is desired.

The system is also completely invisible, as the pipes are embedded within the floor. This eliminates the need for bulky radiators or unsightly vents, allowing for greater design flexibility and a cleaner aesthetic.

Environmentally Friendly:

Solar thermal radiant flooring is a sustainable heating solution that reduces reliance on fossil fuels and minimizes carbon emissions. By harnessing the sun’s renewable energy, this system helps to combat climate change and protect the environment.

Compared to traditional heating systems that burn fossil fuels, solar thermal radiant flooring produces no greenhouse gases during operation. This makes it an environmentally responsible choice for homeowners who are conscious of their ecological footprint.

Versatility and Compatibility:

Solar thermal radiant flooring can be installed in a variety of floor types, including concrete slabs, tile, wood, and even carpet. This makes it a versatile option for new construction and renovation projects alike.

The system can also be integrated with other renewable energy technologies, such as solar photovoltaic (PV) panels, to create a comprehensive and sustainable energy solution for the home.

Increased Home Value:

Installing a solar thermal radiant flooring system can increase the value of your Idaho home. As energy efficiency and sustainability become increasingly important to homebuyers, features like radiant floor heating and solar energy systems can make a property more attractive and desirable.

By harnessing the sun’s energy to provide gentle, even heat, this system creates a cozy and sustainable living environment while reducing energy costs and minimizing environmental impact. Ready to be comfortable AND save thousands on your home energy bills in Idaho? CALL US!

How Our Latest and Largest Saved Thousands!

Powering Efficiency into Savings: How Renewable Energy NW Helped This Idaho Homeowner Slash Their Energy Bill

We are excited to share with you one of our latest and largest renewable energy installs! We applied our full arsenal of affordable energy solutions to provide a working solution with mind blowing results, but first a little background…

Did you know that the average Idaho household consumes roughly 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month? What if you could significantly reduce your reliance on traditional energy sources and dramatically lower your monthly bills? That’s exactly what Renewable Energy NW helped a local homeowner achieve!

The Challenge:

This homeowner was facing a significant energy challenge with an average daily usage of 68,800 kWh over the past year. That translates to a staggering monthly bill every month that was just unacceptable. We knew we could do better!

The Renewable Energy Solution:

Renewable Energy NW took a comprehensive approach to tackle this energy challenge.
Here’s a breakdown of the key steps:

Energy Efficiency Measures:
Upgrading to 2 new high-efficiency 24 SEER heat pumps significantly reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Replacing traditional well pumps with variable speed models minimized wasted energy for both domestic water needs and irrigation.

Installing a whole house fan and 2 solar attic fans provided natural cooling solutions, further reducing reliance on air conditioning.

One Electric Hot Water heater was replaced with a new Heat Pump water heater saving an estimated $400 per year.

Replacing a swim spa, a notorious energy guzzler, eliminated a major source of energy drain.

Solar Power & Battery Storage:
Renewable Energy NW installed the maximum allowable residential solar PV system in Idaho – a 25 kW system with panels facing east and west for optimal sun exposure throughout the day.

To maximize self-reliance and store excess solar energy, 3 Franklin Iron Phosphate batteries, each with a capacity of 13.4 kWh, were added to the system.

The results speak for themselves!
The homeowner’s latest utility bill reflects a dramatic shift: a mere $10 monitoring fee and a credit of $47!

This incredible outcome demonstrates the power of combining energy efficiency upgrades with a robust solar PV system and battery storage solution.

Ready to explore how Renewable Energy NW can help you achieve energy independence and substantial cost savings?

Call us for a free consultation to discuss your renewable energy options. Don’t wait to take control of your energy consumption and start saving today!

Can Solar Thermal Help You Save?

Harnessing the Sun’s Warmth: Benefits of Solar Thermal for Your Home

Solar energy has become a popular choice for eco-conscious homeowners, but there’s a distinction between solar photovoltaic (PV) systems that generate electricity and solar thermal systems that capture the sun’s heat. Let’s delve into the advantages of installing a solar thermal system for your home.

Financial Savings: The most compelling benefit is the potential for significant cost reduction on your utility bills. Solar thermal systems can provide up to 70% of your hot water needs, especially during sunny months. This translates to less reliance on conventional water heaters, leading to lower energy consumption and reduced bills.

Environmental Impact: By utilizing a renewable resource like the sun, solar thermal systems minimize your dependence on fossil fuels. This translates to a smaller carbon footprint and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. You’ll be actively contributing to a cleaner environment for yourself and future generations.

Long-Term Investment: While the upfront cost of installing a solar thermal system can be a factor, it’s an investment that pays off over time. These systems are known for their durability, lasting for decades with minimal maintenance. Additionally, government incentives like tax credits and rebates can help ease the initial financial burden.

Increased Home Efficiency: A solar thermal system complements your existing hot water heater. During peak sunlight hours, the solar system takes over, reducing the strain on your conventional heater and improving overall home energy efficiency. This can also extend the lifespan of your traditional water heater.

Sustainable Source: Unlike fossil fuels, the sun is a limitless resource. By tapping into solar thermal energy, you’re securing a reliable and sustainable source for your hot water needs. This independence from fluctuating energy costs provides long-term peace of mind.

Adaptable Technology: Solar thermal systems can be integrated with most existing hot water heater setups. Additionally, modern systems function efficiently even in less sunny climates, maximizing your potential savings throughout the year.

Beyond Hot Water: While primarily used for hot water heating, some solar thermal systems can contribute to space heating needs, further reducing your reliance on conventional heating methods.

Considering Solar Thermal?

Solar thermal systems offer a multitude of benefits for homeowners! If you’re looking to lessen your environmental impact, achieve long-term cost savings, and invest in a sustainable future for your home, then solar thermal is definitely worth exploring. Remember to consult with a qualified solar thermal installer to determine if your home and location are suitable for this eco-friendly technology.

Can Whole House Fans Help You Keep Your Cool?

Breathe easy and save green with a whole house fan from Renewable Energy NW! This ingenious system harnesses the power of nature to transform your home into a cool and refreshing haven. Imagine stepping inside after a long day to a gentle breeze that washes away the day’s heat, all without cranking up the AC and racking up your energy bills.

A whole house fan isn’t quite magic but you might question that after you experience the difference! By strategically drawing in cooler evening air through open windows, it pushes out the stale, hot air trapped inside. This creates a delightful cross-ventilation that cools your entire home naturally. Think of it as a giant sigh of relief for your stuffy house!

But the benefits extend far beyond a cool breeze! Whole house fans are incredibly energy-efficient! Unlike air conditioners that guzzle power, these fans use minimal electricity, significantly reducing your energy consumption and saving you money on those monthly bills. It’s a win-win for your wallet and the environment! How much? Get in Touch Contact Us!

Moreover, whole house fans promote healthy living! By constantly circulating air, they help remove allergens, dust, and even airborne pollutants, creating a cleaner and more breathable environment for you and your family. This is especially beneficial for allergy sufferers who can finally enjoy a breath of fresh air indoors.

And let’s not forget the simple joy of natural ventilation! There’s something inherently calming about feeling a cool breeze wafting through your home. It replaces the sterile, artificial coolness of AC with a refreshingly natural experience that soothes the senses and promotes a good night’s sleep.

Now, whole house fans aren’t a magic bullet for every climate…They work best in drier regions with cooler nights – so in Idaho we’re particularly fortunate! It’s an investment that pays off in cooler temperatures, lower energy bills, and a healthier, more comfortable home environment. So, ditch the stuffy air and embrace the natural breeze – a whole house fan might be the perfect solution for your home! Renewable Energy NW has the skill and experience in installing whole house fans that you will want – get in touch today to find out how much you can save this Summer!

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SOLAR PV

SAVE WITH SOLAR!


Harness the power of the sun to fuel your home or business for just pennies a day! Find out how much you can save!
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SOLAR THERMAL

MORE THAN HOT WATER!


Solar thermal is a efficient way to heat all the water in your home! More than just hot showers, it can save you from shoveling snow too!
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WHOLE HOUSE FANS

WHOLE HOUSE COOL


Our whole house fans are one of the most efficient ways to cool your home and bring in fresh air!

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ELECTRICAL UPGRADES

SAVING IS SIMPLE!


You don’t have to spend a lot to save a lot! Fact is, there are hundreds of ways to improve your home energy efficiency beyond solar!

IT COSTS NOTHING TO FIND OUT HOW MUCH YOU COULD SAVE! CALL 208-577-6537