Solar Hot Water Systems
Use the sun to heat your water directly with rooftop solar collectors. A proven technology that can reduce hot water costs by 50-90% in sunny climates.
How Solar Hot Water Works
Solar hot water systems capture sunlight using rooftop collectors and transfer the heat to water stored in an insulated tank.
Collect
Rooftop collectors absorb sunlight and convert it to heat
Transfer
Heat is transferred to water via direct flow or heat exchanger
Store
Hot water is stored in an insulated tank (roof or ground)
Boost
Gas or electric booster activates if solar heating is insufficient
Solar Hot Water System Types
Choose between flat plate collectors (better value, warm climates) or evacuated tubes (higher efficiency, cooler climates).
Flat Plate Collector
Traditional design with a dark absorber plate under glass. Simple, durable, and cost-effective.
Advantages
- checkLower upfront cost
- checkVery durable
- checkEasy maintenance
- checkGood in warm climates
Considerations
- removeLess efficient in cold/cloudy weather
- removeLarger roof area needed
- removeCan overheat in summer
Evacuated Tube Collector
Glass tubes with vacuum insulation around the absorber. Better heat retention and cold weather performance.
Advantages
- checkHigher efficiency
- checkWorks well in cold/cloudy conditions
- checkIndividual tubes replaceable
- checkLess roof space needed
Considerations
- removeHigher upfront cost
- removeTubes can break
- removeMore complex installation
Solar Hot Water vs Heat Pump
Both are efficient hot water options. The best choice depends on your climate, roof, and preferences.
| Factor | Solar Hot Water | Heat Pump |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $3,000-7,000 | $3,500-5,500 |
| Running Cost | $50-150/yr | $150-250/yr |
| Cloudy Days | Needs booster | Full performance |
| Roof Space | Required (north-facing) | Not required |
| Maintenance | Periodic cleaning | Minimal |
| Lifespan | 15-20 years | 10-15 years |
| Best Climate | Sunny (QLD, WA, NT) | All climates |
Choose Solar Hot Water If:
- check_circleYou live in a sunny climate (QLD, NT, WA)
- check_circleYou have good north-facing roof space
- check_circleYou want the lowest possible running costs
- check_circleYou prefer simple, proven technology
Choose Heat Pump If:
- check_circleYou live in a cooler/cloudier climate (VIC, TAS)
- check_circleYou have limited or shaded roof space
- check_circleYou want consistent performance year-round
- check_circleYou already have solar PV panels
Solar Hot Water Brands
Quality solar hot water systems from established Australian and international manufacturers.
Rheem
Flat plate & evacuated tube
5-10 years warranty
Solahart
Flat plate & thermosiphon
5-10 years warranty
Apricus
Evacuated tube specialist
10 years warranty
Chromagen
Flat plate systems
5-7 years warranty
Hills
Flat plate & evacuated tube
5 years warranty
Solar Hot Water Rebates
Government rebates can reduce the upfront cost of a solar hot water system.
Frequently Asked Questions
helpHow does solar hot water work?
Solar hot water systems use rooftop collectors to absorb sunlight and transfer the heat to water. The heated water is stored in an insulated tank for use throughout the day. Most systems include a booster (gas or electric) for cloudy days.
helpWhat is the difference between flat plate and evacuated tube solar?
Flat plate collectors are simpler, more durable, and work well in warm climates. Evacuated tube collectors are more efficient in cooler climates and cloudy conditions because the vacuum insulation reduces heat loss. Tubes are more fragile but individual tubes can be replaced.
helpHow much does a solar hot water system cost?
Solar hot water systems typically cost $3,000-7,000 installed, depending on system type, tank size, and installation complexity. After rebates (STCs), you may pay $2,000-5,000 out of pocket.
helpDo solar hot water systems work on cloudy days?
Solar thermal collectors still absorb some heat on cloudy days, but output is significantly reduced. Most systems include a gas or electric booster that activates when solar heating is insufficient.
helpWhat size solar hot water system do I need?
System size depends on household size and hot water usage. Typically: 1-2 people = 180-250L, 3-4 people = 250-325L, 5+ people = 325-400L. Larger collector area is needed in cooler climates.
helpHow long do solar hot water systems last?
Quality solar hot water systems last 15-20 years. Tanks typically have 10-year warranties, while collectors can last 20+ years. Evacuated tubes may need occasional replacement.
Get a Solar Hot Water Quote
Find out if solar hot water is right for your home. We'll assess your roof, climate, and usage to recommend the best system.