Discover the 2024 Best Solar Hot Water System for Your Home

Jan 1, 2023

Looking for the best solar hot water system in 2024? The latest models combine energy efficiency, reliability, and cutting-edge technology to deliver sustainable hot water solutions for Australian homes. Whether you’re upgrading an old electric tank or building your dream home, this guide covers the top-rated systems, critical factors to consider, and expert recommendations to help you make the right choice.

⭐ Top Solar Hot Water Systems of 2024

Three standouts are leading the pack this year:

🌿 Envirosun TS+ 300L Twin Panel Close-Coupled System

300L tank capacity – suits medium to large households.
Twin panel design for maximum solar gain.
Backup electric booster ensures hot water on cloudy days.
COP rating ~4 – excellent efficiency.
Warranty: 10 years on tank, 7 years on panels.

A smart option for families wanting reliable, low-maintenance solar hot water at an affordable price.

Explore Envirosun Solar Systems

🌞 Rheem Loline 325L Twin Panel Split System

325L ground-mounted tank + slimline roof collectors.
Designed for 2–6 people.
Electric booster element included.
Flexible installation: indoor or outdoor tanks.

Ideal for households needing higher capacity with dependable after-sales support.

See Rheem Solar Range

🌅 Rinnai Sunmaster 315L Twin Panel Split System

315L Vitreous Enamel tank with aluminium fin collectors.
Great for cost-effective split installation.
High durability and performance in Australian conditions.

A popular choice for homeowners seeking dependable performance and value.

✅ Factors to Consider Before You Buy

☀️ Climate and Location

Solar efficiency depends heavily on sunlight availability.
If your area has frequent cloudy days, choose a system with an electric or gas booster.

🏠 Roof Space and Orientation

Ideally, panels should face north for maximum exposure.
Minimum 4m² of collector area for a 4-person home.
Ensure no shading from trees or other buildings.

👨👩👧👦 Household Size and Usage

Small homes (1–3 people): 200–250L tank.
Medium to large homes (3–6 people): 300–325L tank.
Larger homes may need 400L+ or boosted systems.

💰 Energy Savings and Cost

Solar hot water can cut electricity consumption by 60–70%.
Typical annual savings: $230–$400, depending on usage and energy prices.
Federal rebates up to $1,000 help offset upfront costs.

🔧 Active vs Passive Solar Systems

System Type	Active	Passive
How It Works	Pumps circulate heated water or transfer fluid.	Relies on gravity and natural convection.
Efficiency	Higher (up to ~70%).	Lower (30–50%).
Installation	More complex.	Simpler, fewer parts.
Cost	Higher upfront cost.	Generally more affordable.
Best For	High-demand homes, cold climates.	Warm climates, smaller households.

🔌 Boosting Options

When sunlight isn’t enough, a booster ensures your showers stay hot:

Electric Boosters: Simple and effective, but cost more to run.
Gas Boosters: Instant and more efficient.
Solar Electricity Integration: Use solar PV panels to power boosters or heat pumps.

Many homeowners now combine solar hot water + rooftop solar power for maximum savings.

🛡️ Warranties and Maintenance

Warranty example (Envirosun):
- 10 years tank
- 7 years panels
Servicing: Every 3–5 years to flush sediment and check valves.
Expected lifespan: 10–25 years with regular maintenance.

💡 Expert Tip: Consider a Heat Pump

If roof space is limited or you want even lower running costs, a heat pump water heater is an excellent alternative, reducing energy use by up to 75%.

Explore Heat Pumps

🔍 Frequently Asked Questions

Which company is best for solar water heaters?
Top brands in Australia include Rheem, Rinnai, Envirosun, Dux, and Aquamax.

What government rebates are available?
Up to $1,000 rebate for solar systems and $600 for heat pumps via the Renewable Energy Bonus Scheme.

Are solar hot water systems worth it?
Yes—over 10–15 years, savings easily offset installation costs, making them an excellent long-term investment.

What’s the difference between active and passive?
Active systems use pumps for circulation; passive rely on natural thermosiphon flow.

What is a boosted system?
A solar hot water system with gas or electric backup for cloudy days.