Carl

HONOLULU – Hawaii Energy, the ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program for Hawaii, Honolulu and Maui counties, is offering a limited time solar water heating tune-up rebate of $150 for the third year in a row. Since 2014, more than 2,500 residents have taken advantage of the rebate.

The tune-up rebate is now available through May 31, 2016, or while funding lasts. Residential electric ratepayers on Hawaii Island, Lanai, Maui, Molokai and Oahu are eligible. However, those that received a tune-up rebate in the last two years are not eligible.

To find a participating contractor and schedule a tune-up, visit www.hawaiienergy.com/tune-up or call Hawaii Energy at 537-5577 or toll-free (877) 231-8222.

To qualify for the rebate, systems must be at least three years old, and the tune-up must be performed by a Hawaii Energy participating contractor.

The cost of a tune-up typically ranges between $300 and $500. Hawaii Energy helps reduce this cost by providing the $150 rebate.

To make it easy for residents, participating contractors instantly deduct the rebate from the invoice, so that residents do not have to mail in any applications or wait for rebate checks.

“Hawaii Energy encourages you to take advantage of the rebate now, especially if your solar water heater has never been maintained,” said Deputy Program Manager Caroline Carl.

“Ask your contractor about the condition of your system before and after the tune-up. You’ll be better informed about maintenance to extend the life of your system.”

Solar water heaters require maintenance every three to five years to check and repair normal wear-and-tear that may include leaks, corrosion or pump failure. A properly maintained solar water heater can last 15 years or more.

For those without solar water heating, Hawaii Energy offers a $750 instant rebate when a system is installed by a participating contractor. Learn more at www.hawaiienergy.com/solarwater.

Households that replace their electric resistance water heater with a solar water heater can save between 25 and 40 percent on their electric bill. However, without regular maintenance, these savings can gradually diminish, Hawaii Energy reported.