subject: Disadvantages of solar hot water heaters and advantages of heat pumps [print this page] The major disadvantage of solar hot water systems is the initial investment which is higher than your other types of hot water systems. Take into account you are buying the tank and panels, these have to be installed onto your roof. The panels and tank are quite heavy so you have to have a few men on site to install.
Another disadvantage that customers have to be made aware of is that they are unsightly and take up a fair amount of the average roof space. Also have to be positioned where they get the most direct sunlight and that might be at the front of your house.
Another disadvantage is any sort of maintenance to panels or the heater has to be done from the roof. You need sunlight for the heaters to work efficiently and if that doesn't happen you need some sort of booster. I would suggest before purchasing a solar hot water heater maybe get a technician out to evaluate your property, size of roof and see if it is feasible.
Heat Pump Systems are almost as energy efficient less costly and can be hidden around the house. Heat pumps allow you to have hot water every minute of the day, simply heat pumps work in reverse of your air conditioner.
Heat pumps are roughly 3 times more energy efficient than traditional electric heaters, rebates are available in Queensland and as of 1, Jan, 2011 you must install either a heat pump, solar hot water system, or gas hot water heater when you replace your old electric hot water system. Your local Gold Coast Plumber Coast Plumbing are specialists in hot water systems, give them a call to find out your options.
Disadvantages of solar hot water heaters and advantages of heat pumps
