For many of us, laundromats might not be the first thing we associate with the word “innovation.” Yet the rising cost of energy has resulted in many highly innovative technology developments in recent years, from high efficiency dryers to water-saving front loading washing machines . Now, for a few select early adopters – like Michael Pfister, owner of Family Laundromat at 1107 Westchester Pike, PA – solar power is the latest in a line of laundromat-focused innovations that work to help them save money – and go green.

Michael Pfister, with his solar array

Michael Pfister and solar installer Alan Rushforth

Mr. Pfister worked together with D.C. based Skyline Innovations to outfit the store with   solar-powered water heating. The system, which greatly reduces the store’s reliance on fossil fuel, is owned and maintained by Skyline Innovations. The laundromat is charged only for the solar energy that they consume, which comes at a guaranteed discount to PECO, Pfister’s existing utility.

Skyline Innovations, which helps to develop solar power within the laundromat market, found Pfister through Bob Eisenberg, Pfister’s good friend and equipment distributor. The three parties worked together to create a process that works for laundromat owners, guaranteeing them energy savings as well as clean, green solar power, with no upfront cost and minimal disruption to the day-to-day business.

Pfister’s Family Laundry received a solar system consisting of eight 4’x10’ Solene panels, mounted on the store’s roof, as well as a custom built 500 gallon hot water storage tank. All installation and plumbing work was done by Alan Rushforth of Rushforth Solar of Philadelphia.