- Solar hot water systems run on free energy from the sun, which lowers running costs over time.
- Upfront cost is higher than other systems, and most include a gas or electric booster for overcast days.
- How well it performs depends on your roof’s orientation, shading and available space.
- Rebate schemes change over time, so check current eligibility before budgeting.
Solar hot water systems are becoming increasingly popular across Perth, largely because of the running cost savings over the system’s lifetime. Here’s what makes them worth considering, and what determines whether your home is a good fit.
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How Solar Hot Water Actually Works
Solar systems use roof-mounted collectors to capture heat from the sun and transfer it to your water storage tank. Most systems include a gas or electric booster for overcast days or periods of high demand, so you’re never without hot water even when the sun isn’t cooperating.
Why Homeowners Choose Solar
Rebates: check current eligibility directly through energy.gov.au before budgeting, since scheme details and thresholds are updated periodically.
Is Your Roof Suited to Solar?
Before committing, it’s worth assessing a few things:
- Orientation. North-facing roofs generally get the most consistent sun exposure across the day.
- Shading. Established trees or neighbouring structures that shade your roof for large parts of the day will reduce system performance.
- Roof space. Solar collectors need a reasonably clear, structurally sound section of roof.
A quick assessment from a licensed plumber can tell you whether solar is a good fit before you invest.
Increasing Your Home’s Value
Solar hot water can be an attractive feature for buyers who understand the running cost benefits, particularly as energy costs continue to be a consideration for prospective homeowners.
It’s important to have a professional plumber install or repair your solar hot water system to ensure it’s compliant and performing as it should.
Aus Star Plumbing & Gas, Licence PL7378, servicing Perth’s south corridor and Peel region including Rockingham, Baldivis, Kwinana, Mandurah, Cockburn and surrounds.