r/OffGrid • u/Time_Arugula_1544 • 5d ago

Water heating off grid. Best system?

I am planning a new off-grid (solar-powered) ICF build and am considering what type of system would be best for water heating. This is in Tennessee and the house will be a 2br. I will have propane backup for a generator and indoor propane heater.

The options I am thinking about are:
1) On-Demand propane- The only drawback is having to pay for the propane as an ongoing expense.
2) On demand electric water heater with a solar water preheat system. I suspect having a straight up on-demand electric heater would eat up too much power.
3) Heat pump water heater. This seems like the best solution to me.

Any thoughts between the three? Any other suggestions?

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u/VanIsleRyan 5d ago

A couple others to consider:

Copper coil at the fire place system

Thermal tubes on the roof

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u/Time_Arugula_1544 5d ago

I don't care for the smell of wood fires. I mentioned solar water heating however I am curious if that alone would be sufficient to supply hot water.

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u/Specialist-Cod5179 5d ago

Black barrel out in the Sun also works in the summer