Solar Hot Water vs Heat Pumps in Tasmania

Hot water heating is one of the largest energy expenses for Tasmanian households. Two popular options for reducing this cost are solar hot water systems and heat pump hot water systems — and both work well in Tasmania’s climate.

Solar hot water systems use rooftop collectors (either flat plate or evacuated tube) to directly heat water using sunlight. They typically include a booster element for cloudy days. Evacuated tube collectors tend to perform better in Tasmania’s cooler climate as they retain heat more effectively.

Heat pump hot water systems work differently. They extract heat from the surrounding air — similar to a reverse-cycle air conditioner — and use it to heat water. Modern heat pumps can operate efficiently even in temperatures as low as -5°C, making them suitable for most Tasmanian conditions.

If you already have a solar PV system, a heat pump hot water unit can be an excellent complement. By running the heat pump during the day using your solar electricity, you effectively get free hot water. Many heat pumps can be set on timers to align with peak solar production.

Solar hot water is a dedicated solution that doesn’t rely on your PV system, which can be advantageous if your roof space for PV panels is limited.

Both options are eligible for Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs), which provide an upfront discount on the purchase price.

To determine the best hot water solution for your Tasmanian home, get in touch with Solar Generation Tasmania.

Published by Solar Generation Tasmania. General information current as at publication — rebates, tariffs and prices change, so confirm current figures before deciding.