Did you know that by switching to solar hot water, you can remove up to 3 tonnes of carbon from the environment every year. That’s the equivalent of taking a small car off the road!
Is my home suitable for solar hot water?
Choosing the right solar system isn’t easy but, don’t dismay, we’re here to help! While price will always be a consideration, it’s crucial you also receive the right up-front advice, a problem-free installation and comprehensive after-sales service.
At Cheapa Hot Water, our solar hot water experts are trained and qualified to ensure you get the best solar solution for your situation. We will visit your home and discuss with you your needs and requirements. We assess the site conditions and arrive at the best solar solution for you.
When switching to solar hot water, consider the following…
Roof space
Most houses will use 2 solar collectors which are around 2m tall x 1 m wide each. That means you need at least 2m x 2m, plus some clearance space on your roof.
For a roof-mounted tank, you’ll need even more roof space .
Ground space
You’ll also need some ground space for the ground-mounted hot water storage tank, if applicable. This isn’t necessary for roof-mounted tanks.
North facing roof area
It is best if the collectors can be mounted facing north in order to capture the most sunlight. If you’re not sure, use a compass or go to Google Earth to check if you’ve got a north-facing roof area.
Climate
The solar collectors will need to be placed in an area of high sunlight and minimum shade. Shade from trees and surrounding buildings aren’t ideal.
Climate can also be a factor when choosing a solar hot water heater. Extreme weather areas that get frost or very high heat will need a product designed to suit the climate.
If solar doesn’t suit your home then a heat pump system is a great alternative. In the industry we call heat pumps “solar without the panels”.
Types of solar water heaters »
The benefits of switching to solar hot water
Reduce your energy bills
Solar is a great way to reduce your energy bills and your reliance on energy companies by harnessing the sun’s free energy. Companies like Rheem and Solahart have been delivering hot water free from the sun to households around the world for over 60 years. The range of solar hot water systems on the market has expanded to include solar power (PV) and battery storage technology.
Did you know that by replacing your hold gas or electric water heater with a solar one can save 50%-90% of your hot water energy use. Install a Solahart PV system to provide power to your home and supplement this with a Tesla Powerwall battery to store free power for use at night or when the sun’s not shining. Any surplus power can then be fed back into the grid.
We can provide you with all three solutions so you get unbiased advice on the best system for your needs.
Increase the value of your home
Ask any real estate agent and we’re sure they tell you that adding solar increases the value of your home. The significant savings on household energy bills now and into the future are incentive alone for any potential buyer.
A more sustainable future for us all
Switch to a solar water heater and save up to 3 tonnes of carbon emissions per year, which is equivalent to taking a small car off the road. Our goal is to help you make the decision on which solar solution best suits you, to not only save you money but also reduce your carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Switching to solar from gas or electric hot water
If you’ve ever had your day ruined because of hot water problems, you’ll understand the need to get back into hot water fast. Call early and we will have you back in hot water within 24 hours.
And remember, when your existing water heater has problems or breaks down, it’s a great opportunity to switch to a solar hot water system. Not only will you get your hot water free from the sun, you’ll also be saving on your energy use. If like many Australian households, you’re concerned about the rising cost of electric and gas energy, sustainable solutions may be able to set your mind at ease. For example, did you know that the average Australian home uses up to 25% of its energy consumption providing hot water? Reducing your energy use can be as straightforward as installing a solar water heater.
Contact us for more information »
Government’s Small Scale Technology Certificates (STCs)
The Federal Government introduced the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme to encourage individuals and small businesses to install renewable energy systems in their home or business.
Solar hot water heaters and air source heat pumps are appliances that are applicable to claim rebates under the scheme.
IMPORTANT CHANGES TO STC REBATES
From 1st January 2022, the Deeming Period for the installation of solar hot water heaters and heat pumps is changing and will be reduced by 10% compared to an equivalent installation in 2021. The Deeming Period will be reduced by one year, each year, until the scheme ends in December 2030. If you’ve been considering switching to solar hot water, it’s paramount you do so ASAP to take advantage of the STC rebates. Contact our solar experts for advice.
Is solar hot water reliable?
In the past 20 years, solar hot water has advanced rapidly and the technology surrounding it is now cheaper, more reliable and has a longer life span.
“But what happens if it’s cloudy?” – Even when the sky is cloudy, the sun is still letting off solar rays that heat your hot water. If the sky is blue and the sun is shining, you will have more hot water BUT it doesn’t need to be sunny and hot for a solar hot water system to work and generate great, free hot water.
More information about how solar hot water systems work »
How long does it take to install a solar hot water system?
Solar hot water is our specialty and, generally, our team can install a new solar hot water system within a few hours so you’ll be enjoying energy-efficient hot water that evening.
The first step in a trouble-free solar hot water installation is the planning and preparation – all of which we take care of so you can sit back and relax.
On installation day, we install the ground level storage tank first. Once this is operational, the gas or electric backup boosters start heating the water immediately whilst we install the rooftop collectors.
Importantly, we have the tools and equipment necessary to efficiently install a roof top solar hot water on any Sydney residence or commercial premises. This means you won’t have any delays because we don’t have to outsource from other companies, it also makes our services more cost-effective.
Secondly, did you know that the installation of a new solar hot water system requires the expertise of both a plumber and an electrician? Our solar hot water installation experts are licensed and qualified to undertake both the plumbing and electrical work required. Again, this saves time and money and means we don’t have to outsource to other tradespeople.
For more information about the solar hot water installation process, call 0410 693 532 to speak to one of our technicians.
Thinking of switching to solar? Contact us for obligation-free advice.
Solar hot water is our business! At Cheapa Hot Water, we are authorised installers and repair technicians for all the solar hot water heater brands including Solahart, Rheem, Edwards, Apricus, Quantum and many more. Our solar systems are competitively priced because we purchase large quantities direct from the manufacturers – a saving we can pass on to our customers.