- Date:
- 2 Oct 2020
Installing a renewable energy system at home to help reduce household bills and greenhouse gas emissions is more popular than ever in Victoria, with significant rebates available to help you save even more. Rebates are available for solar panel (PV) systems for both householders and rental properties, hot water systems such as solar hot water or heat pump hot water systems, and for solar batteries. Interest-free loans are also available for solar panel (PV) systems to help further reduce the initial cost.
To get the most out of your system it needs to be planned and installed properly. A well-designed system can help lower your household bills as much as possible, helping you to get the most benefit out of the rebates available to you. Choose quality parts and components, and a reputable retailer and installer for a system that serves your household for many years to come. You must use an authorised solar or hot water retailer and a system that is on our hot water product list to be eligible for a rebate.
This Hot Water Buyers Guide was produced in conjunction with non-profit organisation Renew to help you plan the right system for your home. This guide includes the types of hot water systems available and factors to consider when making a purchase. Read through the guide, do your homework and seek out independent advice before contacting authorised retailers for quotes. When you’re confident that you’ve found the right retailer and product for you, you can use their quote to begin applying for eligibility for a rebate.
Hot Water checklist: What to consider before buying a system
- Check your eligibility for the hot water rebate
- Differences between heat pump and solar hot water
- What size system suits your household?
- Learn about tank types
- Split or close-coupled solar hot water?
- Find a reputable installer
- Get a good warranty
- Not for you? Improve your current system
Section 1: What is an efficient hot water system and why should I install one?
Solar energy is the most sustainable way to heat your water at home, saving you money and helping the environment at the same time.
Section 2: What rebates and incentives are available to Victorians for efficient hot water systems
You can get a Solar Homes rebate of up to $1,000 on the installation of a solar or heat pump hot water system, if you meet the eligibility criteria.
Section 3: Choosing between a heat pump and solar hot water system
A hot water system is a big investment and one that won’t be replaced too frequently, so a household should weigh up the differences between a heat pump and solar hot water system.
Section 4: Deciding your hot water system size and tank
System size has an impact on energy use so think carefully about what your household needs from a new hot water system.
Section 5: Planning a solar hot water system
There are a number of system types and factors to consider when planning a solar hot water system. See Section 4 for details on system sizing and tanks for all hot water systems. Read on for specific
Section 6: Planning a heat pump hot water system
A heat pump hot water system can be a great choice for many households, especially if you have rooftop solar PV, or don’t have a gas connection.
Section 7: Finding the right installer and steps to installation
A good installer can help you plan a hot water system for your home that’s sized for your needs and helps lower your bills for many years to come. Follow these steps to install a hot water system.
Section 8: What warranties are available?
Any hot water system worth buying will come with a long warranty. There are several warranty types to consider.
Section 9: Consumer protections when buying solar or hot water systems
If you have a problem with a solar electricity or hot water system installed at your home you have rights to protect you as a consumer.
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