Solar Hot Water

Need a Solar Hot Water System Installed?

For all your hot water system needs, trust the experienced team at Eco Earth Plumbing. With years of expertise in installing various hot water systems, we specialise in Solar Hot Water. When we are put to the task of hot water installations we meticulously assess every detail of the job, ensuring that the placement of the system doesn't cause any adverse effects or is placed in an inconvenient position. We will also make sure your system is performing perfectly before we leave your home. You can rest assured Eco Plumbing has your best interests in mind.

What is a Solar Hot Water System?

A solar hot water system utilises energy from the sun to heat water for domestic or commercial use. These systems work by harnessing sunlight through solar collectors, which are usually mounted on rooftops or other areas with good sun exposure. They are becoming a more and more popular water heating solution due to contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability efforts. Households and businesses alike are enjoying reduced energy bills with their solar water system. Interestingly, solar hot water systems are often more efficient for water heating compared to using solar panels with an electric water heater, as they directly convert sunlight into heat energy.

Workings of a Typical Solar Hot Water System

You may be under the impression that you need to have solar panels to enjoy solar hot water, however, this is not the case. Solar hot water systems use solar thermal collectors to capture and utilise the heat from sunlight to heat water directly. When solar is used to generate electricity photovoltaic panels are then installed, and the amount of panels depends on the size and needs of the household.

• Solar Thermal Collectors: These are flat panels or tubes that are installed on the roof to absorb sunlight and convert it into heat energy. The heat is then transferred to a fluid, typically water, circulating through the collectors.
• Heat Transfer: The solar collectors contain a heat transfer fluid (usually a mixture of water and antifreeze) that absorbs the sun's heat. As the fluid circulates through the collectors, it absorbs heat from the sunlight.
• Heat Exchanger: The heated fluid then passes through a heat exchanger, where it transfers its heat to water stored in a tank or directly in the plumbing system of a building. In some systems, the fluid itself may be the water supply for domestic use.
• Storage Tank: The heated water is stored in a well-insulated tank until it's needed. This tank ensures that hot water is available even when sunlight is not.
• Backup System (Optional): Some solar hot water systems may have a backup heating source, such as a conventional water heater powered by electricity or gas. This backup system ensures a continuous supply of hot water during periods of low sunlight or high demand.

Benefits of Solar Hot Water Systems:

• Renewable Energy: Solar energy is abundant and renewable, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional heating methods.
• Energy Savings: By using free sunlight to heat water, solar hot water systems can significantly reduce energy bills, especially in sunny regions.
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Since solar hot water systems rely on clean energy from the sun, they help reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with traditional heating methods.
• Long-Term Investment: Although the initial cost of installation may be higher than conventional water heaters, solar hot water systems can provide long-term savings and a good return on investment over their lifespan.

Solar Hot Water Installation

Our installation plumbers are committed to delivering efficient and precise installations of your solar hot water system. With years of hands-on experience, you can rely on the skilled team of installers at Eco Earth Plumbing to complete the job quickly and correctly. We will also install a mandatory Tempering valve or Thermostatic Mixing Valve (TMV) as these devices ensure the water temperature will not burn individuals using the hot water. If you require guidance on selecting the most energy-efficient system or determining the appropriate size for your needs, we are here to assist you with all your questions and help you make an informed choice. Contact us today to discover how we can supply and install the ideal solar hot water system for your home or business.

Solar Hot Water Repairs

You may wonder “ What can go wrong with a solar water system? Just like any water heating unit, you may experience your water only being lukewarm or even cold. Perhaps you have identified a leak or are hearing strange noises such as hissing coming from your system. It's these issues that need to be addressed as soon as possible. When you do have issues with your hot water system, you want to know that an experienced technician will take care of the problem and apply a solution that will not just be a short-term fix. As our plumbers have a thorough understanding of what can go wrong with a solar hot water unit, they can complete all repairs quickly, efficiently and with no need for any callbacks.

Solar Hot Water Maintenance and Service

With regular maintenance, you can help prevent your system from completely malfunctioning and the need for costly repairs or even replacement. Our qualified technicians will locate any potential issues whilst conducting a scheduled service and offer the most suitable and cost-effective repair solution. So how often should you have your solar water system serviced by a qualified technician? Generally, once a year is recommended to ensure optimal performance, efficiency, and longevity of the system. However, the frequency of servicing can depend on various factors including:

• Manufacturer's Recommendations: Follow the specific maintenance schedule recommended by the manufacturer of your solar hot water system.
• System Age: Older systems may require more frequent inspections and maintenance to ensure they continue to operate efficiently.
• Usage Patterns: High usage or heavy demand for hot water may warrant more frequent servicing to prevent wear and tear on components.
• Local Climate: Systems in areas with harsher climates (e.g., extreme heat, cold, or high humidity) may require more frequent maintenance.
• Water Quality: Poor water quality can lead to mineral deposits or corrosion within the system, necessitating more frequent checks and maintenance.

Commercial Solar Hot Water Systems

Solar hot water systems are a popular water heating solution for business sectors where there is a significant demand for hot water, such as hotels, hospitals, laundromats, restaurants, and manufacturing facilities. Despite the initial investment, most businesses find that the long-term benefits of solar hot water systems outweigh the costs, both financially and environmentally.

If you are a business owner looking to install solar hot water in a new business or perhaps replace an existing hot water system with solar, our expert technicians can help you assess your property and hot water requirements to ensure you install the most suitable system. Our assessment will include available space for solar panels or collectors, the volume of hot water you require daily and the feasibility of integrating solar hot water with existing heating systems. Eco Plumbing will also address the initial costs as we aim to guarantee your complete satisfaction with both your solar hot water system and our service.

Solar Hot Water System Brands

At Eco Earth Plumbing, we possess comprehensive expertise in all types of hot water systems, not just solar. Our extensive experience includes electric, gas, heat pump, and instant water heating units. We work with leading brands that manufacture these water heating systems, providing complete services and support for:

• Rheem Hot Water Systems
• Rinnai Hot Water Systems
• Vulcan Hot Water Systems
• Dux Hot Water Systems
• Bosch Hot Water Systems
• Thermann Hot Water
• Chromagen Hot Water
• Stiebel Eltron Hot Water

Why Choose Eco Earth Plumbing

We are a locally owned and operated Sunshine Coast business and proud active members of the Master Plumbing Association. We strive to deliver exceptional workmanship and maintain the highest standards of professionalism in every plumbing project we undertake. When you enlist our services you can expect:

• Comprehensive residential, commercial, and industrial plumbing services
• Certified, licensed and insured gas fitter
• 100% workmanship guaranteed
• 5-star customer reviews
• Reliable and trustworthy plumbers
• Full warranty on all products and services
• Fast and cost-effective
• Respectful, clean and tidy
• Upfront Pricing all jobs are quoted rather than hourly charges so you know what to expect before we start
• Free  no-obligation quotes
• 24/7 emergency plumbing services

Reliable Plumbers Sunshine Coast

Eco Earth Plumbers are your Sunshine Coast plumbing specialists for all your residential or commercial plumbing needs. We offer solar hot water system installation services, if you would like to schedule an installation call us on 0404 023 023 or complete our online enquiry form and we will be in touch.

Reference - https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/solar-water-heaters