With the cost of living increasing in Perth, many people are asking themselves: Is it worth the upfront cost of solar hot water systems? Will it really save you money in the long run? Leveraging Perth’s abundant sunlight, the short answer is: Yes!
What is solar energy?
Solar power is generated when energy from the sun (sunlight) is converted into electricity or used to heat air, water, or other fluids. There are two main types of solar energy technologies:
- Solar Thermal: This technology converts solar radiation into thermal energy (heat), commonly used for hot water systems.
- Solar Photovoltaic (PV): This converts sunlight directly into electricity using photovoltaic cells. PV systems can be installed on rooftops or integrated into building designs and vehicles.
Benefits of solar energy
- renewable and sustainable
- reducing electricity bills
- low in maintenance costs
- A way to decrease dependence on non-renewable energy sources
- Great for reducing your carbon footprint
How Solar Hot Water Heating Works?
Solar water heaters work by absorbing energy from the sun’s rays in roof-mounted solar collectors, transferring this energy to heat water stored in a tank. A typical four-person home usually requires two solar panels (about four square meters) and a water tank holding 300 to 360 litres.


Choosing the Right Solar Hot Water System
Selecting the right solar system can seem daunting, but don’t worry—that’s where we come in! While cost is an important factor, it’s crucial to receive the right advice, a hassle-free installation, and comprehensive after-sales service.
When you choose The Plumbing Gas Heroes we will help you to:
- Estimate the cost and energy efficiency of a solar water heating system
- Evaluate your site’s solar resource
- Determine the correct system size
- Understand Perth’s local codes and regulations.
Types of Heating System

Collector based systems
These are the systems you often see on rooftops. They absorb the sun’s rays and transfer the heat directly to your hot water. Depending on your location and the efficiency of your panels, you can expect to generate upwards of 50% of your hot water from them. On rainy cold days, a well-insulated tank or an electric or gas backup may be needed.

Heat pump systems
These systems don’t use the silver panels typically associated with solar power. Instead, they extract heat from the air to increase water temperature, functioning similarly to a reverse-cycle air conditioner or fridge. While they do require electricity to operate, they still use significantly less power than conventional electric water heaters.
Considering a switch to solar? Yes, the initial investment may seem high, but the savings you’ll see, especially in sunny Western Australia, will make it worthwhile. If you’re ready to learn more about our solar hot water service installation, don’t hesitate to contact us today! Let The Plumbing Gas Heroes guide you towards a more sustainable and cost-effective future.
FAQs
The cost to install a solar PV network can be offset within 4 to 7 years by not having to pay traditional power bills. Households may also be eligible for interest-free government loans for installation
Most quality solar panels are designed to be self-cleaning in the rain. Dust, debris and bird droppings can accumulate when there hasn’t been rain and reduce the amount of electricity produced.
The installation process for a Solar Hot Water system typically takes 1-3 days, depending on the size and complexity of the system
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