Frequently Asked Questions

 

Why should I use solar hot water?

Hot water is one of the biggest users of energy in your home. Heating hot water using the conventional means of gas or electricity accounts for almost 50% of a households power bill (sourced from SIA). Solar energy is the most abundant form of energy.  By harnessing this fully renewable resource to heat your water, you not only reduce your power bill you also make a positive contribution towards a sustainable New Zealand.

 

How much will I save?

Solar hot water systems function well in New Zealand, however, the exact amount you save will depend on a wide range of factors including your location, roof orientation and shading. Sunriver solar hot water units deliver monetary 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. The savings achieved from a Sunriver solar hot water system will more than offset the set up costs. Also 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. When averaged over an entire year, evacuated tube heat output is between 25-40% greater than a flat plate collector.

 

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 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 so there is very little maintenance required however there are a few things that can be done to ensure the unit is performing at its best.

  • Check that nearby trees have not overgrown and are shading the collector
  • Wipe down the evacuated tubes as frequently as washing the windows
  • 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.