Switching from rooftop solar hot water to an electric water heater is a smart move towards energy efficiency for this customer.
We recently assisted a customer in Gladesville (Ryde / Hunters Hill areas) who experienced a burst rooftop solar hot water system while on holiday in Italy. After years of reliable hot water, the rooftop solar system began leaking heavily from the tank.
Over a FaceTime call with the customer, we discussed three potential options:
- Install a new rooftop solar hot water system
- Install a new solar hot water system with rooftop collectors and a ground-mounted tank
- Switch to an energy-efficient electric hot water system that could later utilise the rooftop PV solar panels the customer planned to install
The customer opted to switch to an electric hot water system.
Using rooftop PV solar panels to power their new hot water system
The customer and their neighbour in the duplex had plans to install rooftop PV solar panels in the near future, so this was the perfect time to make the switch to an electric hot water system.
By replacing the old solar hot water system with a high-efficiency electric storage tank, they’ll enjoy a dependable setup that can be powered by their new solar panels once installed, using the sun’s energy to heat their water without the complexity of a rooftop solar hot water system.
Further reading: How do solar panels heat my hot water?
An energy efficient electric hot water system
Once the customer decided to switch to electric hot water, we discussed which system would best suit their needs, available space and budget.
After reviewing a few options with them via our FaceTime chat, the customer chose the Vulcan 315L electric hot water heater, a simple, robust and cost-effective solution. Installed neatly at ground level, this unit makes maintenance easy while offering excellent energy efficiency thanks to modern insulation and heating technology.
Electric hot water systems have come a long way in the past 10 to 15 years. Newer models use far less energy and provide consistent hot water all day long. Key improvements include:
- Enhanced insulation to retain heat for longer and reduce power usage
- Smart thermostats for precise temperature control and energy savings
- Faster heat recovery times for uninterrupted hot water supply
- Compatibility with rooftop PV solar panels, allowing homeowners to use solar energy to heat their water and cut household electricity costs
Features of the Vulcan 315L electric hot water system
The Vulcan 315L water heater is a reliable, Australian-made system designed for medium to large households that need a steady, dependable hot water supply.
Key features include:
- 315-litre capacity, ideal for families or homes with higher demand
- High-strength steel cylinder with vitreous enamel lining for long-lasting durability
- Indoor or outdoor installation options for greater flexibility
- Left-hand plumbing connections for easy replacement of older units
- Twin-element option for faster heat recovery
- Off-peak tariff compatibility to help lower running costs
- 10-year cylinder warranty for added peace of mind
For this Gladesville customer, the Vulcan 315L water heater provided the perfect combination of capacity, reliability and efficiency, while also preparing their home to take full advantage of future rooftop solar panels.
Future-proofing for an energy-efficient home
Our team help customers to future-proof their homes with modern, sustainable hot water solutions. Whether upgrading from gas, solar or an older electric unit, our licensed hot water specialists can recommend a system that suits your energy goals and budget.
By combining a new energy-efficient electric hot water system with PV solar panels, homeowners can create a low-emission, cost-effective way to heat their water all year round. It’s a smart move that offers both reliability and savings over time.
Ready to upgrade to energy-efficient hot water?
If your current hot water system is leaking, inefficient or no longer meeting your needs, get in touch with our team for expert advice you can trust. With more than 30 years of experience, we specialise in fast hot water repairs, replacements and upgrades for all makes and models.