When it comes to solar energy, many of us think of electricity produced from solar panels, but there is another way to use the sun’s power – to heat water. Hot water for solar power can be an excellent way to save money and reduce your workload.
Whether you’re an experienced DIYer or a novice, this guide will help you learn how to use solar energy to heat your water. We’ll look at the different types of systems available and also explain why installing a hot water heat pump is a great option for Australian homeowners.
Types of Solar Water Heaters
Solar thermal systems come in two main types: active (or pumped) systems and passive (or direct) systems. Active systems are more efficient but require more maintenance and are more expensive. Passive systems are cheaper and easier to maintain but don’t perform as well in colder climates.
Active Systems: Active systems use pumps to move hot fluid between collectors and a storage tank, with the pump powered by electricity or gas. They are most efficient when installed in areas with plenty of sunlight, such as Australia’s sunny climate.
Passive Systems: Passive systems rely on natural convection currents, meaning they don’t need pumps to move the hot fluid between collectors and storage tanks. They work best in warmer climates and usually require less maintenance than active systems, making them a great choice for Australians who want an easy-to-maintain system.
Advantages of Installing a Hot Water Heat Pump
If you have an existing tank-style water heater or want something simpler than an active system, then installing a hot water heat pump could be your best option. This type of system uses electricity or gas instead of sunshine to generate hot water, so it can be used even when there isn’t enough sunlight for other types of solar thermal systems.
The advantages of using a hot water heat pump include:
– Low installation costs – compared with active solar thermal systems, hot water heat pumps tend to cost less upfront
– Reduced workload – they require less maintenance than active solar thermal systems
– Lower energy bills – depending on how much you use your system, you could save up to 70% on your energy bills
– Increased efficiency – they tend to be more efficient than other types of solar thermal systems, meaning they can generate more hot water per unit of energy used
– Long lifespan – if installed correctly and maintained regularly, they can last up to 15 years
Installation Tips for Hot Water Heat Pumps
So now that you know why installing a hotwater heat pump is so beneficial for Australian homeowners let’s look at some tips for installation:
– Hire professional installers – if you don’t have experience with plumbing or electrical work then it’s best not to attempt the installation yourself as it could lead to costly mistakes or even injury
– Check local regulations – before installing any type of heating system make sure that you check with your local council as some areas may have restrictions on what kind of heating system can be installed
– Choose the right size – make sure that you get the right size heat pump for your home as too small or too big will both lead changes in efficiency
Hopefully this article has given you all the information you need about using solar energy to heat your water and why it makes sense to install a hotwater heat pump in Australia!