Switching to a solar hot water system

Switching to a solar hot water system could reduce your energy bill

Water heating accounts for 23% of the energy used in an average Australian home, according to the Australian Government (Your Home).

A simple way you could start saving on your energy bills is to switch to a solar hot water system. A solar hot water system will, on average, meet 50-90% of household requirements (Energy Rating, 2020). A solar hot water system is separate from a solar panel system and the two can work independently.

What size system should I choose?

The size of your solar hot water system should be determined by how many people are in your household, the amount of water used, and when you use your water.

Typically, one person will use around 80 litres of water per day (Energy Rating, 2020). Other factors (e.g. spas and shower times) will also impact this usage.

Split Solar Hot Water System with flat plates: (Energy Rating)

Do I choose between flat plates and evacuated tubes?

The solar collector part of the hot water system is made up of flat plates or evacuated tubes. Each option has its pros and cons - depending on your climate, roof orientation and system size, one option will likely be better than the other. When choosing your solar collector type, your installer can talk through the options suited to your individual needs.

What is a booster?

A booster works as a back-up heater, heating your water when there is not enough energy available from the sun. There are two main options: electric or gas.

Where should the collectors be placed?

Ideally, in Australia, solar collectors like solar panels should be placed on a north-facing roof. If you do not have a north-facing roof, you can place panels facing east or west, however, the energy generated by the sun may be lower (Energy Rating). Your chosen installer will be able to provide information suited to your home.

Interested in finance options?

Check out the Brighte repayment calculator.

Sources:

• Australian Government, 2020 https://www.yourhome.gov.au/energy/hot-water-service https://www.energyrating.gov.au/products/water-heaters/solar-water-heaters
• ⁠Your Energy Rating: https://www.energyrating.gov.au/products/water-heaters/solar-water-heaters