Greener Alternatives to Electric Hot Water Systems

Solar Hot Water

Solar hot water systems are fast becoming popular around Australia, with significant benefits for homeowners and the environment.

Solar hot water systems can provide between 50 to 90 per cent of a household’s hot water needs, they produce zero or little greenhouse gas emissions, and are incentivised by state and federal governments under different rebate schemes as well as through the Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme (SRES).

There are different types of solar hot water systems powered either completely by solar energy, or more popularly, as electric-boosted or gas-boosted systems that guarantee hot water when there is insufficient sunshine.

Solar systems are made up of a solar collector – either flat plate or evacuated tube collectors – and storage tank. In split systems, the tank sits at ground level and an electric-powered pump moves water through pipes between the roof and the tank. In close-coupled systems, the collectors and tank both sit on the roof, requiring adequate roof strength to support the full weight of the system.

Gas boosted solar systems are increasingly popular due to government rebates and incentives often favouring these in reticulated areas. The large volume gas needed to heat water quickly in these systems means an upgrade to the gas line may be required.

Gas Systems

Gas systems are a popular and low cost, lower-emission hot water system in areas where there is reticulated natural gas.

Natural gas produces about one-third of the greenhouse gas emissions compared to the emissions from conventional electricity. While gas only hot water systems are not eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates under the SRES, gas-boosted solar systems are popular in reticulated areas.

Heat Pumps

Air source heat pump hot water systems require electricity to run however they use only about a quarter to one half of the energy of a standard electric storage system.

Heat pumps heat water by exchanging heat energy with the air. They work just like a refrigerator with a refrigerant circulating through the system to heat the water, except in reverse.

Heat pumps require adequate ventilation and airflow and work most effectively in warm, humid climates.

Skills and Training

As more Australians turn to lower-emissions intensive hot water systems, plumbers with the most up-to-date information and training will be best positioned to help customers make an informed decision about the most appropriate system for their household. Correctly installing solar and heat pump water systems also ensures they comply with relevant plumbing regulations and perform to a high standard.

For plumbers, this means staying abreast of the most current regulations, systems on offer, as well as the different rebates and incentives offered by state, territory and the Federal government.