Step-By-Step

Step 1: Which type of system.

  Direct systems Indirect systems
How it works Water is heated-up directly by the sun. Instead of water, an anti-freeze solution is heated and a heat exchanger transfers heat to the water in the solar geyser. This ensures panels can’t freeze and also avoids corrosion.
When to choose
  • You don’t get any frost.
  • The water in your area has a low chemical content.
  • Your area is prone to frost.
  • Your area has a high mineral content (check your kettle for lime scale build-up).



Step 2: What size geyser.

The number of people permanently living in your house will determine the size of the system that you require. When converting to solar water heating it is a good idea to increase the size of your geyser. A bigger geyser means that you will be able to store more solar heated water and use less electricity.

For 1-2 people in a house we suggest a 150 litre geyser, for 2-3 people we suggest a 200 litre geyser and for 4-6 people we suggest a 300 litre geyser.

Step 3: Storage.

  Pumped storage Thermosyphon
How it works Water is forcibly moved by a pump. Water moves by natural convection, due the difference in weight of hot and cold water. Fluid rises to the top of the collector and flows into the heat exchange (tank). Colder water at the bottom of the tank goes back into the collector. Hot water from the top of the tank goes directly into the house. This system requires less maintenance, is less likely to cause water damage if the tank bursts, and is more economical.
When to choose
  • You want the tank to be located away from the panel and hidden from view in a cupboard or in the ceiling. There are various pumps available, including renewable alternatives which use photovoltaic technology.
  • You don’t mind having the tank in view on the roof.
  • Your roof structure can handle the weight of the tank.
  • You want to reduce the chance of insurance damage due to a burst geyser.



Step 4: Configuration.

Standard installation – a new solar tank using a standard configuration.

Pre-feed installation – a solar tank and panels are fitted to an existing electrical geyser.

Retrofit system – solar panels are fitted on an existing electrical geyser.

Step 5: Claiming the rebate

YES Solar will guide you through this process.

  Advantages Disadvantages
Thermosyphon System
  • Less maintenance
  • More economical
  • Safer – if tank bursts there will be less water damage
  • Tank is usually visible on the roof
Split/Pump System
  • Aesthetic – no tank visible
  • More parts = more expensive
  • Higher maintenance
Direct System
  • Efficient
  • Panel corrosion
  • Possibility of water freezing
Indirect Systems
  • Panels wont freeze
  • No corrosion
  • Slightly less efficient
Flat plate collectors
  • Efficient
  • Robust
  • Easy to keep clean
  • More expensive to repair
Evacuated Tubes
  • Slightly more efficient
  • Independent tubes – easier to replace if damaged
  • Water can reach very high temperatures

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