Buying Guide: Solar
Replacing your hot water system is a purchase that does not come up often, we don’t normally pay attention to the type or size of our hot water system until we find a leak or we have no hot water. This guide focuses on solar hot water systems and how it could benefit you.
The first step is to take a look at your existing unit, you need to ask the question is this currently suitable for the family or home? The service we offer is for like for like replacement, this is the same type in the same size into the same location. If you wish to change the type, size or location we are happy to assist with this, an onsite quotation will need to be carried out before pricing can be issued.
Why choose a Rheem branded system?
- Australia’s leading brand in hot water
- All systems are designed specifically for the Australian market
- Making hot water systems in Australia since 1939
- Network of Rheem service agents Australia wide offering support
- Extensive range of systems to suit a range of capabilities
How do solar hot water systems work?
- Absorb energy from the sun’s rays to heat water in collectors (panels) on roof
- The water is transferred to a storage tank
- The storage tank could either be located on roof with panels or on ground outside house
- Ground mounted systems rely on an inbuilt circulator to move the water through the system
- Roof mounted systems rely on a natural thermosiphon
Is my home able to have solar hot water installed?
- It is best to have a north facing roof that is not shaded by trees or surrounding dwellings for the most efficient system
- You also need to ensure your roof has adequate space for the panels
- When we come out to do a quote for new install or change over we will assess if it is the right option for you
What are the different booster options?
- Electric Boosted
- Uses an electrical element to heat the water in the storage tank when the panels have not captured enough sunlight
- This needs to be considered when reviewing long term running costs
- Gas Boosted
- Has a continuous flow gas booster which creates hot water on demand when the panels have not captured enough sunlight
- This is a better option for long term running costs
What is the benefit of Premier panels?
- Rheem’s Premier solar panels are designed specifically for frost prone or colder climates
- They have a unique drain back technology that prevents the system from heating or freezing
What are the environmental and financial benefits of solar hot water?
- They can save up to 65% of water heating energy consumption
- Reduces carbon emissions
- A STC financial benefit is available when going solar, visit www.rheem.com.au/rebates to find out how many STCs apply to the unit you are looking at the zone you are in
- Also available at the above is the downloadable STC assignment form
Choosing the best capacity unit
- As it is not often purchased you need to consider changes in household overtime
- Number of bathrooms
- Number of people using hot water at the same time
- Age brackets of people living in home (E.g. Teenagers will use more!)
- Number of dishwashers or washing machines that could also be using hot water
- Is the bath used regularly?
