Solar hot water systems have experienced a rise in popularity over the last 20 years. With over 19% of Australian households now having solar technology in the form of solar panels or solar hot water systems installed, the popularity of solar systems keeps growing (according to ABS).
Here at Bell Contracting, we can understand why our customers desire a solar hot water heater. A solar hot water system is more environmentally friendly and given time, much kinder to your wallet, being more cost-effective in the long run.
With the variety of solar hot water systems on offer these days, selecting a solar hot water heater can be a little overwhelming. Bell Contracting offers a comprehensive range for you to select from when you're deciding on which solar hot water systems might be best for you.
A solar hot water system is made up of two main components. The storage tank to hold the hot water and the solar panels or evacuated tubes, known as collectors to attract the sun's heat energy. Panels are usually flat while the evacuated tubes will be circular. Evacuated tubes are more efficient and cost a little more as a result. Solar hot water systems are available in 2 main forms, thermosiphon or Split/Pumped.
This method of solar heating houses the collectors and the hot water tank together on top of the roof. A thermosiphon system relies on natural convection called thermo-siphoning. As the sun shines down and heats the collectors, the water warms and in turn travels up into the storage tank, pushing the cold water out and down to the collectors to be warmed. This cycle continues and is relatively passive... quite energy efficient when it comes to a water heating service.
A split/pump system will have a separation between the hot water storage tank and the collectors. The collectors will be housed in the most desirable location, usually a north-facing rooftop location. If this is not possible and efficiency is comprised, extra panels may be required to achieve the desired amount of solar power to warm your hot water. Our solar hot water specialist will be able to calculate the number of collectors you'll need, based on your hot water needs and the household the unit will service.
With the separation of the hot water storage tank and the collectors, a pump is required in order for the water to travel up to the solar collectors to be warmed. This type of hot water unit will have a sensor device to monitor the temperature. When the water in the collectors reaches the desired temperature, it will travel down to the water tank and in turn, the cooler water from the tank will be pumped up to the collectors to be heated.
Both these systems have relatively the same amount of energy use. A factor that may play into your selection process could be the structural strength of your existing roof. As a thermosiphon water heating service is installed on the roof with the water tank and the solar collectors, this can be quite heavy. Yet, a split/pump system will require a little more energy when pumping the water instead of relying on the thermo-siphoning factor.
Our Solar hot water unit specialists will walk you through the benefits of each system, so you can make an informed decision on your water heating selection, to enquire online today, contact us.
The term 'Solar' simply means denoting energy derived from the sun's rays. When people talk about 'solar power', they could be talking about either traditional solar hot water systems or heat pump hot water systems. Both qualify and are excellent with efficiency when it comes to a hot water service.
With lower running costs compared to that of traditional hot water systems like electric or gas, solar-heated water might prove to be worth the initial investment and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the process.
It is a wise decision to opt for a booster to compliment your hot water system when installing a new solar hot water system. As we all know too often, weather can be unpredictable. If there is little sunshine, you'll see minimal energy created... meaning there will be minimal hot water for you and your household.
It is not unusual for solar hot water systems to have a backup energy source. The backup energy source will either be an electric or gas. This backup energy source will kick into gear when the temperature sensors trigger that the water tank temperature has dropped below a certain amount. A hot water tank temperature should not fall below 60 degrees by Australian Standards. Ensuring your water heating supply remains above 60 degrees is important and reduces your risk of legionnaires disease.
Well-equipped solar hot water systems will have a booster, whether your chosen hot water system is a thermosiphon one or a split system. Taking extra precautions to ensure you are never without hot water is always a wise choice. Our local plumbers can advise on the best solutions for boosters and explain how a booster helps to support your solar hot water system.
If you are ready to talk about a new solar hot water installation, Bell Contracting is ready to walk you through the process, helping you select the correct system and brand to meet your household needs. Whether a solar water heater is new for your household or you were one of the first homes to install a solar hot water service, our specialists can assist.
Please note, a new solar hot water installation may require a bit of time. If your roof needs to be reinforced, this process may not be carried out with a same-day service. Bell Contracting are expert forward thinkers and will endeavour to install your new solar hot water system ASAP.
Our friendly customer service team will communicate clearly, leaving no guesswork to the process and in turn your expectations.
Don't leave a hot water systems repair or service to just any plumber. Hot water systems are specialized areas requiring high levels of expertise and experience. Dealing with all the major and minor hot water brands, the different makes and models is a specific skill. Our licensed plumber has years of experience, expertise, and know-how. When you call Bell Contracting, you'll be dealing with the experts.
Solar heating systems do require regular maintenance. Just like any plumbing appliance, servicing is required to ensure your system is efficient, and in turn, extend the life of the unit. cleaning, inspecting, testing are all needed. With regular services carried out on the same day by Bell Contracting, your investment will be in the safest possible hands.
Bell Contracting can handle all your hot water system repairs. With our extensive knowledge and experience in solar heating, we can advise on the best solution to repair your heating system. Call Bell Contracting to discuss your solar requirements today on
9023 3240.
A heat pump system also relies on energy from the sun. Heat pumps extract the warmth in the air and use that warmth to heat your water. The heat pump warming method is a similar principle to that of a fridge or an air conditioning unit, just in reverse. These systems are extremely efficient, while a heat pump does use electricity, generally speaking, it is 3 times more efficient than conventional hot water heaters.
Heat pumps are available in two main varieties, either integrated or split. An integrated system will have the tank and compressor housed together. A split system will have a separation between the tank and the compressor.
Please, note your heat pump should be installed in a well-ventilated space.
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