Browse Forums Heating, Cooling & Insulation 1 Feb 25, 2010 2:07 pm Looking to put solar HWS in our 4bed 2bath new build with good solar access and natural gas in Torrens Park, Adelaide. A few question for you knowledgable types: 1. Flat panel vs evacuated tubes: I realise the later is more efficient, but does anyone have any real-world quantification of this? Bottom line is does the extra winter-time efficiency of EV systems justify the additional upfront cost? (I figure in summer there would be no difference). 2. Whats the best way to work out the size of system we need? 2 adults and a toddler at the moment, but looking down the track it may be a 5-6 person household, if we're still there in a decade or two. Re: Solar hot water in Adelaide 2Feb 25, 2010 2:20 pm ET sellers are always a bit fuzzy about this one. I have seen it modeled for a Zone 2 district and it worked out FP Solahart 302 3500 kWhr vs ET 30 tube 3800 kWhr of energy - about a 9% improvement. An honest dealer could provide a proper comparison. Winter is not actually where ET gets its biggest wins. What it does is extend the period where you become solar sufficient e.g. shoulder season. In an Adelaide winter you might generate 60 L/day with a twin plate FP versus 90L with a 30 tube ET (extra 3 min hot shower) The standard calc for hot water needs is 50L/person/day. Obviously this varies depending on your usage patterns, climate and how hot the water is already in the tank. the sun master is the solar heating to "warm" the water in the tank the S26 is your hot water system which will heat the water (25 degrees?) so with both turned on you… 2 14059 I want to build a decking to the drawn shape outlined in black. The problem is how close can I build to the gas hot water unit? Will I be able to build around it and be… 0 20232 DIY, Home Maintenance & Repair Hi, I've got a brand new (2nd hand) Bosch Hydropower 16H tankless hot water heater. Since it was installed I have noticed it leaks a lot. I took the cover off and it looks… 0 24147 |