With Brisbane’s abundant sunshine it makes perfect sense to use energy from the sun to heat your water. Water heating is the second biggest energy guzzler in the average Australian home, so switching to a solar hot water system can significantly lower your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
Whilst solar hot water systems are expensive to purchase and install, they will save you a lot of money in the long term.
Solar hot water systems can harvest the sun’s energy at any time, converting it to heat, and storing it for when you need it. To ensure that you always have hot water available, an electric or gas booster is added to the system. If you have solar panels installed, this can provide most of the boosting energy.
There are two main types of solar hot water systems: close-coupled or open coupled, also known as split systems. Close-coupled systems are installed entirely on your roof. The sun heats the water as thermosyphoning moves it through the panels. There are no moving parts, and as such you are less likely to experience issues.
Open coupled systems have the panels installed on the roof, and the tank on the ground, which many people prefer as it gives the roof a more streamlined appearance. A circulating pump feeds the water through the panels to heat up and then delivers it back to the tank. These systems have a lot of moving parts, so they require more maintenance.
Both types of systems must be installed correctly to ensure maximum efficiency and savings. Always use an experienced professional, like the team at Watermark Plumbing.
A good solar hot water system can last up to 20 years, or even longer if maintained properly. We advise servicing every five years, and you should always call a plumber if you experience leaking, no hot water, or any other issues.
Our team are highly experienced in the installation, maintenance, repairing, and replacing of all types and brands of solar hot water systems. Furthermore, we pride ourselves on our efficiency in getting your system up and running as quickly as possible. Call us today for all of your solar hot water system requirements.
