Think energy-efficient hot water - think solar water systems

Many home owners are considering installing solar water systems because of concerns about the environment. But what are the options when it comes to such systems, and how do you know whether they're appropriate for your home?

Types of Solar Hot Water Systems

There are two main types of solar water systems on the market – close coupled, where the tank and solar collectors are placed on the roof, and split systems, where the tank is on the ground and the panels are on the roof. "The advantage of split solar water systems is that the heavy weight associated with the tank is on ground level and not on the roof," says Geoff McDonald from Rinnai. "These systems are available in gas and electric-boosted varieties."

When it comes to positioning solar water systems, it's important that the collector panels on the roof face in a northerly direction. The complete system must also be tailored to the size of the household and the associated hot water requirements. Solar water systems can be installed in any type of home, from small townhouses to much larger dwellings.

The Varying Costs of Solar Water Systems

Operating costs vary, depending on whether the system is natural or LP gas, or electric boosted. "Natural gas is the cheapest way to boost hot water," says Geoff, "with gas-boosted solar water systems, there are fewer greenhouse gases emitted into the atmosphere compared to old-fashioned electric hot water."

Government rebates can reduce the cost of installing solar water systems. The size of the rebate depends on the state the house is located in, whether it is a new or existing dwelling and whether or not an existing hot water system is being replaced.

"The rebates are designed to encourage people to use solar hot water and make it more affordable," explains Geoff. "The federal government's Australian Greenhouse Office awards renewable energy certificates (RECs) according to how much energy each system saves compared to a conventional electric hot water system."