As a homeowner, you understand how energy bills can add up and how important it is to find ways to reduce costs. One of the most significant expenses can be the cost of heating water, especially in the cooler months. That’s why it’s essential to consider investing in a solar hot water system.
In this buying guide, we will provide you with a comprehensive breakdown of solar hot water systems in Australia, including the benefits, what to consider before purchasing, as well as any installation requirements.
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Benefits of a solar hot water system
The primary advantage of installing a solar hot water system is that it uses the power of the sun to heat your water, reducing household electricity bills. As Australia is blessed with ample sunlight throughout the year, it is widely considered one of the best places to install an array of solar systems.
One of the major draw cards for investing in a solar hot water system is that it has the potential to meet up to 90% of your hot water needs, depending on your location and sunlight exposure. As stated by Australian Government initiative, YourHome, these systems may require a higher initial investment compared to conventional hot water systems, however they offer significant energy savings, helping reduce both your bills and greenhouse gas emissions.
What to consider before purchasing a solar hot water system
Before you buy a solar hot water system, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, you must determine if your household is suitable. Factors such as your household size, number of occupants, and hot water usage will all affect what type of solar hot water system will be right for you.
Secondly, you should research and compare the different types of solar hot water systems on the market – roof mounted, split system, evacuated tube collectors or heat pump systems. Additionally, you should consider storage capacity, warranties, solar rebates and small-scale technology certificates (STCs) available in your area.
Compare solar plans & prices
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Ausgrid network in Sydney but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 3911kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Citipower network in Melbourne but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4000kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on the Energex network in Brisbane but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4613kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Here are some of the cheapest solar-specific deals from the retailers on our database. These costs are based on SA Power network in Adelaide but prices will vary depending on your circumstances. We show one product per retailer, listed in order of lowest price first. Annual price estimates assume general energy usage of 4011kWh/year for a residential customer on a single rate tariff. Price estimates exclude solar feed-in tariff credits. These are products from referral partners†. Our database may not cover all deals in your area, and please check retailer websites for up to date information.
Installation requirements for solar hot water systems
When it comes to installing a solar hot water system, there are specific requirements to ensure the system is safe and provides maximum efficiency. For instance, the location and orientation of a roof-mounted solar hot water system are crucial factors to consider as they can impact its performance.
The system should also be installed in an area that is free from any shade, particularly during the winter months. It is also recommended that you get a professional to install the solar hot water system, ensuring it is installed to high-quality standards and meets safety requirements.
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Three key factors: Efficiency, capacity and price
One of the most important things to consider is the efficiency and capacity of the system. You should consider the number of people in your household, daily hot water needs, and the climate of your location, to identify the appropriate capacity and size that will meet your hot water requirements. You should also look for systems with higher efficiency ratings, which means that they can heat water with minimal energy consumption.
Your budget will, undoubtedly, play an important role in your choice of solar hot water system, but it’s important not to sacrifice quality for affordability. A good solar hot water system should be within your budget and provide you with great value for money over its lifespan. It’s worth considering the long-term benefits of investing in a more expensive system that delivers considerable energy savings over time.
Choose a brand that offers a quality system
The brand and quality of the solar hot water system you’re considering matters. You should research various brands and select a reputable one that offers a high-quality system. Remember, you want a system that is durable, reliable, and efficient so that you can save money in the long run.
Some established solar hot water system brands in Australia include Rheem, Rinnai, Solahart, Bosch, and Therman. Keep in mind your preferred solar installer should be able to recommend brands and models based on your specific circumstances.
Solar hot water systems: Are they worth it?
Investing in a solar hot water system is a smart decision that can save you money in the long run. However, before purchasing a solar hot water system, it is essential to consider if your household is suitable and to research the different types of systems to determine what is best suited for your needs.
You should also ensure that you have it installed by a certified professional to make sure it operates safely and efficiently. With the abundance of sunlight in Australia, purchasing a solar hot water system could be an excellent decision that will benefit both your wallet and the environment. So, take the first step in reducing your energy bills and invest in a solar hot water system today. Start your search by comparing the best-rated solar installers below.
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