SOLAR INSTALLERSwitching to a Solar Hot Water System
Not only is it possible to supplement your electrical lights with solar energy, but you can also use it to heat your water. In a typical home, water heating accounts for 40% of an electrical bill. That is a substantial amount of power usage, and the ability to use a sustainable source for that electricity is a great opportunity, both in terms of sustainability and budgeting.
Solar hot water systems are typically made up of a tank, a solar collector that will heat the water, and a pump to circulate water between the two locations. The collector, like any other solar panel, is located on the roof, so some considerations before getting a solar hot water system include the pitch and size of the roof and how much shadow falls on your roof from things like chimneys and taller buildings. There is also an electric or gas booster to supplement the heating provided by the solar collector, so you are never relying completely on the collector itself.
When a Canberra home or commercial business installs a solar hot water system, they are still connected to the city's electrical grid. What will happen is the water heated by the solar system will be used first, only then will you utilise water that has been heated by city electricity. So you do not have to worry about running out of water in the middle of a shower while you are trying to reduce your energy consumption. With solar hot water in Canberra, you will always have access to hot water, no matter what. Your water will be just as hot as you have come to enjoy from the city's electrical grid as well- you will not be sacrificing those welcome hot baths if you make the switch to solar hot water.
Most homes in Canberra can expect to see savings of 35% to 50% when they make the switch from the city's electrical supply to solar hot water. As the bulk of your electric usage is tied up in keeping your water hot, there is no reason not to switch if you are looking to save money and make an environmentally conscious decision.
The government does offer rebates to encourage individuals to make the switch to renewable sources of energy. There are financial incentives offered for the purchase of a solar hot water system, and those purchasing a solar hot water system may be eligible for Small Scale Technology Certificates for systems purchased. If the cost of the system if off-putting, these are incentives to look into, and may make the decision easier for you to make.
Solar hot water systems offer the opportunity to embrace a sustainable power source for what amounts to almost half of your power usage. It will make an impact on your pocket as well as the environment. With savings as high as 50% of your electricity bill, the system will earn itself swiftly, and is a very worthwhile investment.
