A Legacy of Innovation in Solar Energy and Water Heater Maintenance
With over 52 years of experience in the industry, Mike D. Kennedy has built an impressive career dedicated to advancing solar energy solutions and pioneering water heater maintenance practices.
Career Highlights
- Sav-On Energy Products (1972-1984):
Mike began his journey in the solar energy industry with Sav-On Energy Products, focusing on the sales and installation of thermal solar products. During this time, he played a key role in promoting and implementing solar technologies. - Gull Industries (1984-2020):
As a leading figure at Gull Industries, a solar thermal collector manufacturer, Mike’s innovative designs made significant impacts. Notably, he designed and introduced the Sun Coil for solar pool heating and the Sol-R-Flow for domestic water heating in 1993. These were the first solar collectors capable of withstanding freezing temperatures, overcoming a major challenge in the solar industry. - Water Heater Doctor (1987-2018):
Mike founded Water Heater Doctor, where he personally maintained over 2,600 residential and commercial water heaters. His work demonstrated that regular maintenance could extend the life of a water heater 3-4 times beyond the traditional 8-11 years. In one remarkable project, he maintained 79 water heaters for a condominium association over 24 years, proving that with proper care, tank-type water heaters can far exceed their expected lifespan. - Water Connection (1996-Present):
Mike continues to lead Water Connection, a distributor of water heater maintenance parts, where he remains committed to improving water heater longevity and efficiency.
Notable Projects
- David Bruce Winery, Santa Cruz, California (1976):
Mike installed the world’s first solar thermal system designed to assist in the heating and cooling of water required for wine fermentation—a groundbreaking achievement in the industry. - Los Altos Town Home Association, Los Altos, California (1987-2011):
In this large-scale maintenance project, Mike’s work on 79 water heaters over 24 years proved that with regular maintenance, water heaters can last more than twice as long as the industry standard. When the units were replaced after 26 years to upgrade to more energy-efficient models, 78 of the 79 were still fully operational.
Educational Initiatives
Throughout his career, Mike has been a passionate educator. He has hosted workshops and classes, produced training videos, and developed educational materials to promote solar thermal energy and the importance of water heater maintenance. His efforts have been instrumental in reducing dependence on fossil fuels and advocating for sustainable practices.
Looking Forward
Mike is now focused on his next major contribution: advocating for government support to reduce waste through tax credits, furthering his mission to protect the environment, one water heater at a time.