Frequently Asked Questions

  

How much will I save with a Sunriver solar hot water system?

The exact amount you save will depend on a wide range of factors including the size of the collector, your location, roof orientation and shading. Sunriver solar hot water units deliver monetary as well as environmental savings, providing up to 75% of your annual hot water needs. In summer, it may be possible to heat all your water, while in winter supplementary heating will be required to provide the remainder. As energy costs continue to increase the return on your investment will continue to grow.

 

Are evacuated tubes more efficient than flat plate collectors?

Evacuated tubes are highly efficient at absorbing solar energy. The tubular design captures sunlight from dawn till dusk. Flat plate collectors only provide peak energy output at midday when the sun is perpendicular to the collectors surface.  

 

Does the system work when its overcast?

Evacuated tubes technology uses solar radiation rather than direct sunshine, so will deliver you hot water even on days when its overcast. The heat output of the solar collector may be reduced on overcast days and supplementary heating may be required. The SolaStat Plus 2 controller monitors the water temperature and controls the activation of the booster heating ensuring consistent hot water supply in the most efficient manner.

 

 Can I use my existing hot water cylinder?

A conventional hot water storage cylinder may be used with some modification to the plumbing to allow water to be pumped to the solar collector, and with the addition of temperature sensors to the top and bottom to allow the controller to manage the electric heating element and circulating pump. An accredited solar hot water installer will provide you with the best option to suit your situation.

 

 What is the difference between Open and Closed Circuit systems?

With Open Circuit systems, the water heated in the header of the solar collector is circulated directly from the hot water cylinder. The Solastat Plus 2 controller regulates the circulating pump, electric heating element and provides frost protection to the collector.

Closed Circuit systems are often used in high frost areas to enable antifreeze to be used in the collector circuit. The antifreeze liquid heated in the header of the solar collector is circulated through a coil inside the hot water cylinder to heat the water. The Solastat Plus 2 controller regulates the circulating pump, electric heating element and proves frost protection to the collector. Closed circuit systems transfer a little less heat because of the extra heat exchanger coil required in this system.

 

Is the Sunriver collector corrosion resistant?

Yes it is. However for extreme corrosion environments, the Sunriver Stainless Steel option should be considered.

 

What happens if an evacuated tube breaks?

Evacuated tubes are made from toughened glass and therefore are not easily broken, however, if one does break the solar collector will still work. No water passes through the tubes so any damage will not result in water leakage or interference with the integrity of the system.  Replacement tubes are inexpensive, easy to install and can be individually purchased from your local Sunriver solar hot water supplier.

 

 What maintenance of the solar collector is required?

Due to the shape of the tubes regular rainfall and wind should keep the collector and evacuated tubes clean. You can from time to time, wipe the tubes and remove any debris from the collector.

 

 Does the system come with a warranty?

The manufacturer, Steelfort Engineering Company Limited, warrants the Sunriver solar hot water unit (manifold, footer assembly and frame rails and evacuated tubes) against manufacturing defects, faulty material and/or workmanship and leakage from corrosion for 10 years. There is a 2 year manufacturer warranty on SolaStat Plus-2 Controller and Relay and a 2 year warranty on Wilo Star-Z pump as provided by the manufacturer of these components.