Solar hot water systems Sydney. Your local specialists. For immediate assistance, call 0410 693 532.
Same day supply, installation, repairs and replacement service.
With our abundant sunshine, solar can significantly reduce your household energy bills, using the sun’s energy to heat your hot water. Whether you’re installing a new solar hot water system, repairing an existing one, or upgrading from gas or electric hot water, our solar specialists are here to help.
Hot water is our specialty and, unlike many general plumbers, we have the expertise, equipment and experience required to install, repair and replace solar hot water systems on any Sydney home, townhouse, apartment building or commercial property.
In this article
- What is a solar hot water system and how does it work?
- The types of solar hot water systems
- Why is solar hot water so energy efficient?
- Tips when buying a solar hot water system
- Popular solar hot water brands
- Switching to solar hot water
- Solar hot water repairs
- Replacement and upgrades
- FAQs about solar hot water
What is a solar hot water system and how does it work?
A solar hot water system uses energy from the sun to heat water for your home.
Traditional solar hot water systems utilise roof-mounted solar collectors that absorb the sun’s energy and transfer that heat into water stored within a tank. Because water heating can account for a significant portion of a household’s energy consumption, using the sun’s free energy can substantially reduce electricity or gas usage.
Most modern systems also include a gas or electric booster to ensure reliable hot water during periods of low sunshine.
The types of solar hot water systems
1. Dedicated rooftop solar hot water systems
Dedicated solar hot water systems use solar collectors mounted on the roof specifically for heating water.
These systems are available in two common configurations:
- Roof-mounted (thermosiphon) systems: The collectors and storage tank are both located on the roof. Heated water naturally rises into the storage tank without requiring a pump.
- Split systems (loline systems): The collectors remain on the roof while the storage tank is installed at ground level. A pump circulates water or heat transfer fluid between the collectors and the tank.
Dedicated solar hot water systems remain one of the most efficient ways to heat water using renewable energy.
2. Using rooftop solar panels (PV) to power your electric hot water system
An increasingly popular option is to install rooftop solar PV panels that generate electricity, which can then be used to power an energy-efficient electric hot water system.
Rather than installing dedicated solar hot water collectors, homeowners use the electricity generated by their solar panels to run their hot water system.
This option is particularly attractive when replacing an ageing solar hot water system, especially if the homeowner already has solar panels installed or plans to install them in the future.
Using your rooftop solar panels to power an electric hot water system offers several advantages, including a simpler system design with fewer specialised components and lower ongoing maintenance requirements. It also allows you to make better use of excess solar electricity generated during the day that might otherwise be exported back to the grid. As energy technology continues to evolve, these systems provide greater flexibility for future upgrades, making it easier to incorporate battery storage and smart energy management solutions to further improve energy efficiency and reduce running costs.
Why is solar hot water so energy efficient?
Heating hot water can be one of the most costly household expensive.
Water heating is one of the largest energy users in most Sydney households. By harnessing free energy from the sun, solar hot water systems dramatically reduce the amount of electricity or gas required to heat water.
The benefits of solar hot water include:
- Lower energy bills
- Reduced reliance on rising electricity and gas prices
- Reduced greenhouse gas emissions
- Greater energy independence
- Long-term savings over the life of the system
Government rebates and STCs
Eligible solar hot water systems and heat pumps may qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) under the Australian Government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme.
Rather than receiving a direct rebate, homeowners typically assign their STCs to the installer, who applies the value as an upfront discount on the installation cost.
The number of STCs available depends on factors such as:
- The system installed
- The installation location
- Expected energy savings
- Current STC market value
Our team can explain what incentives may be available and complete the necessary paperwork on your behalf.
Tips when buying a solar hot water system
Choosing the right solar hot water system is more than price alone.
The most suitable system for your home will depend on a range of factors, including your household’s hot water usage, available roof space, budget and long-term energy-saving goals.
What to consider before buying
Before recommending a solar hot water system to customers, we consider the following:
- How many people live in the home and their daily hot water usage requirements
- Whether your household has high hot water demand, such as multiple bathrooms or large spa baths
- The amount of suitable roof space available for solar collectors
- The direction your roof faces and whether it receives sufficient sunlight throughout the day
- Whether trees, neighbouring buildings or other structures create shade that may affect solar performance
- Whether you already have rooftop solar PV panels installed or are planning to install them in the future
- The location of your existing hot water system and the available space for a new storage tank
- The condition and suitability of your existing plumbing and electrical connections
- Your budget and how quickly you would like to achieve a return on your investment
- Your energy efficiency goals and desire to reduce electricity or gas consumption
- Whether a dedicated solar hot water system or an electric hot water system powered by rooftop solar panels will provide the best long-term outcome for your household
While this might seem like a lot to consider, a new solar hot water system is a major investment, so it’s important to get it right the first time.
Rather than recommending a one-size-fits-all solution for our customers, we carefully assess your household’s needs, property and budget to ensure you purchase the most suitable system.
By taking the time to explain the different options available, we help you make an informed decision that delivers reliable hot water, lower running costs and excellent long-term value.
Popular solar hot water brands
We supply and install all the major solar brands.
At Cheapa Hot Water, we supply and install all major solar hot water system brands. This gives our customers the flexibility to choose a system that best suits their household’s hot water usage, budget and energy-saving goals.
Whether you’re looking for a premium solar hot water solution, a cost-effective replacement system, or advice on the most suitable brand for your property, our experienced team will guide you through the options and recommend the best fit for your needs.
- Rheem: One of Australia’s most trusted hot water manufacturers, offering reliable solar systems backed by extensive service and support networks.
- Edwards Solar: Well known for high-performance solar hot water systems designed for Australian conditions.
- Apricus: A leading evacuated tube solar hot water manufacturer known for excellent efficiency and strong cold-weather performance.
- Chromagen: Offering a range of solar hot water solutions with proven reliability and energy-saving performance.
- Thermann: A cost-effective option providing dependable solar hot water solutions for Australian households.
- Conergy: Many Conergy systems continue operating successfully throughout Sydney, with repair and replacement parts available for many installations.
- Solahart: One of Australia’s most recognised solar hot water brands, with decades of experience developing solar water heating technology.
Further reading: Solar hot water system prices »
Switching to solar hot water
Upgrading to solar from gas or electric hot water.
Many Sydney homeowners are now replacing older electric and gas hot water systems with more energy-efficient solar solutions.
If you’re considering switching to solar hot water, our team can assess:
- Your household hot water usage
- Available roof space
- Existing electrical infrastructure
- Solar panel compatibility
- Budget and energy goals
We then recommend the most suitable solar hot water system for your property.
Whether you’re switching from electric storage, gas storage, instantaneous gas or an older solar system, we can manage the entire installation process.
Need help switching to solar?
Contact us on 0410 693 532 for expert advice.
Solar hot water repairs
We’ll get you back enjoying trouble-free hot water today!
Not every solar hot water problem requires a complete replacement.
Our experienced technicians repair all major solar hot water brands and commonly fix:
- Faulty circulation pumps and solar collectors
- Gas and electric booster systems
- Temperature sensors, controllers and thermostats
- Valves, leaks and pipework issues
Where possible, we always aim to repair and reuse functioning components to keep costs down and minimise unnecessary waste.
Further reading: Common solar hot water repairs »
Hot water problem?
Call 0410 693 532 for same day repairs.
Replacement and upgrades
Sometimes replacement is the most economical solution.
Like all appliances, hot water systems don’t last forever. Over time, tanks, pumps, valves, sensors and other components wear out and eventually reach the end of their service life. In addition, manufacturers often discontinue older models and stop producing replacement parts, making some repairs difficult or uneconomical.
Sometimes a replacement is the most economical long-term solution. While we always look for cost-effective repair options first, there are situations where repairing an ageing system simply doesn’t make financial sense. If your existing solar hot water system is beyond economical repair, we can assess its condition and provide honest advice on the most practical and budget-friendly replacement option for your home.
Problems we can assist with
- You have not hot water or your tank has burst or is leaking
- The current water heater is beyond economical repair and needs replacement
- Solutions if replacement parts are no longer available
- You want to upgrade to a more energy efficient hot water system
- You want to switch to a different type of hot water system
- You want your hot water system moved (including rooftop solar systems)
Hot water system replacement service
If your existing solar hot water system has reached the end of its life, is no longer economical to repair, or you’d like to switch to a different type of hot water system, our experienced team can help you find the most practical and cost-effective solution for your home, hot water usage and budget.
Depending on your household’s needs and energy goals, we can supply and install:
- A new solar hot water system to maximise energy savings and reduce running costs
- A new electric hot water system that utilises your rooftop solar PV panels
- A new heat pump hot water system for exceptional energy efficiency
- A new gas hot water system with fast hot water recovery
- A new high-efficiency electric storage system that delivers reliable, cost-effective hot water
Our hot water specialists will take the time to understand your requirements, explain the advantages and disadvantages of each option, and provide honest, practical advice. The result is a hot water solution that delivers reliable performance, excellent value for money and the best long-term outcome for your household.
Need advice on solar hot water replacement?
Call 0410 693 532 and speak to one of our specialists.
FAQs about solar hot water
Will I still have hot water when it’s cloudy or cold?
Yes. A common misconception is that solar hot water systems only work on hot, sunny days. In reality, modern solar hot water systems continue collecting solar energy even during cloudy weather.
Importantly, quality solar hot water systems include either a gas or electric booster. If there isn’t enough solar energy available to fully heat the water, the booster automatically activates to ensure you continue receiving reliable hot water.
If you find that you only run out of hot water during cloudy weather, it is often a sign that the booster system requires repair or servicing, rather than a problem with the solar collectors themselves.
Can I switch from gas or electric hot water to solar?
Absolutely. Many Sydney homeowners are replacing older gas and electric hot water systems with more energy-efficient solar hot water solutions to reduce their running costs and environmental impact.
When recommending a solar hot water system, we assess a range of factors, including:
- Your household’s hot water usage
- Available roof space
- Existing electrical infrastructure
- Solar panel compatibility
- Your budget and energy-saving goals
Based on this assessment, we can recommend the most suitable solar hot water system for your property.
Whether you’re replacing an electric storage tank, gas storage system, instantaneous gas hot water system, or an ageing solar hot water unit, our experienced team can manage the entire installation process from start to finish.
How much can I save with a solar hot water system?
The amount you save depends on your household size, hot water usage, energy tariffs and the type of system installed. Because water heating is one of the largest energy users in most Australian homes, switching to solar hot water can significantly reduce your electricity or gas consumption and help lower ongoing household energy bills.
Are government rebates available for solar hot water systems?
Eligible solar hot water systems and heat pumps may qualify for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs) under the Australian Government’s Small-scale Renewable Energy Scheme. These certificates are typically applied as an upfront discount on the purchase price, helping reduce the cost of switching to a more energy-efficient hot water system.
How long does a solar hot water system last?
A quality solar hot water system can often provide 15 to 20 years or more of reliable service when properly maintained. Regular servicing helps maximise efficiency, extend the lifespan of the system and maintain warranty coverage.
Can solar hot water systems be repaired?
Yes. Many solar hot water problems can be repaired without replacing the entire system. Common repairs include circulation pumps, booster systems, thermostats, sensors, valves, controllers and leaks. Our technicians always aim to repair and reuse serviceable components where practical to help keep costs down.
Which solar hot water brands do you repair and install?
We repair, service and install most major solar hot water brands, including Rheem, Solahart, Edwards Solar, Apricus, Chromagen, Thermann, Conergy and many others. Our team can recommend the best solution based on your home’s hot water usage, budget and energy goals.
Why choose Cheapa Hot Water
Hot water is our business. And solar hot water is our specialty.
Each year we repair, replace and install hundreds of solar hot water systems across Sydney. Our specialist knowledge, purpose-built equipment and years of experience allow us to safely install, remove, repair and replace solar hot water systems that many general plumbers simply don’t have the expertise or equipment to handle.
When you choose Cheapa Hot Water, you’re choosing:
- Dedicated hot water specialists
- More than 30 years of industry experience
- Licensed plumbers and electricians
- Expertise across all major solar brands
- Fast same-day assistance
- Authorised service specialists for many leading brands
- Extensive spare parts inventory
- Local Sydney knowledge and support
- Specialised equipment for rooftop solar installations
- Honest advice focused on repair before replacement where practical
If you’re considering solar hot water, need a repair, or would like advice about upgrading your existing system, contact the Sydney solar hot water specialists at Cheapa Hot Water.
Contact us for fast help and advice you can trust.
We offer a same day hot water service to all Sydney suburbs including Northern Beaches, Upper and Lower North Shore, Eastern Suburbs, Hills District, Inner West, Western Suburbs + Blacktown, St George + Bexley, Campbelltown, Sutherland Shire, Penrith, Liverpool, Hornsby, and Ryde.