Hot water is an everyday necessity, but it can also represent a significant portion of household energy consumption. According to the Australian Government, water heating accounts for around 15–30% of household energy use, depending on the household.

For homeowners replacing an old system, solar hot water is one option worth considering.

How Solar Hot Water Works

Solar hot water systems use solar energy to heat water, which is then stored in a tank for use when required.
A booster may be used when solar energy is insufficient to meet demand.

This differs from solar PV.

Solar PV: Converts sunlight into electricity.
Solar Hot Water: Uses solar energy to heat water.

What Should Homeowners Consider?

The right system depends on:
• Household size
• Hot water demand
• Available roof or installation space
• Climate
• Existing system
• Energy usage
• Installation requirements
• Future energy plans

What If You Already Have Solar PV? Solar PV and hot water systems serve different functions, but they can form part of the same energy strategy. For example, electric hot water can potentially be operated during periods when solar PV is generating electricity, increasing on-site use of solar energy.

Choosing the Right Approach The most suitable solution isn't necessarily the one with the highest number of features.

It should be the system that fits the property's actual hot water demand, available infrastructure and wider energy strategy.

Renostain includes Solar Hot Water within its product range and also provides renewable energy and energy management solutions.