What are Installation Costs for Solar Thermal Systems?

System Components and Costs

A solar thermal system for radiant floor heating typically consists of a collector array, a storage tank, and a circulator pump. The collector array is usually the most expensive component, with costs ranging from $3 to $6 per square foot, depending on the type and efficiency of the collectors. A 10x10 foot collector array, for example, might cost around $3,000 to $6,000.

Additional Costs and Considerations

In addition to the system components, other costs to consider include piping, insulation, and labor. The cost of piping and insulation can add $1 to $3 per square foot to the overall cost, while labor costs can range from $2 to $5 per square foot, depending on the complexity of the installation and the local labor market. For a 10x10 foot system, these additional costs could add up to $1,000 to $3,000.

Example System Costs

A small solar thermal system for a 1,000 square foot home might include a 10x10 foot collector array, a 50-gallon storage tank, and a circulator pump. The total cost of this system could be around $8,000 to $12,000, depending on the specific components and installation costs. This cost includes the cost of the system components, piping, insulation, and labor, and represents a rough estimate of what homeowners might expect to pay for a small solar thermal system for radiant floor heating.