The biggest mover and shaker in plumbing must be the solar water heating industry. As a plumber I have met all requirements to undertake these installations and I don’t care what anybody says, this is a tough fix, says Lee Goldie, vice president of the Institute of Plumbing South Africa (IOPSA).
“There must be 150 different types of tested systems, each with its own specifications. Some are pumped tube systems, some are standard flat plate thermosyphon systems and many have to be installed to link into existing plumbing systems (retrofit).
“The Eskom rebate system requires many criteria, and mercifully insists on the installation of SABS approved systems installed by PIRB registered plumbers with solar qualifications. There are obvious risks involved such as steep roof pitches, ceiling void work, roof strengthening, waterproofing challenges and so on, but most of all, and the trickiest bit, is the end user.”
Solar water heating makes a lot of sense from the point of view of energy saving, money saving, and saving the earth, but capturing energy from the sun requires a change in how we use hot water, says Goldie.
“You need to change your pattern of use, for instance, change from bathing to showering, or taking shorter showers, or installing water reducing shower roses. Most people don’t realise that solar hearing systems rely on electrical backup, which you have to manage carefully to ensure efficiency. Some systems are less efficient than others or you might have a large tree shading your collectors. You will need a timer that requires seasonal adjustment, so unfortunately with solar water heating it’s almost impossible to “get off the grid”.
“All in all, home owners need to make a conscious effort, like trash separation, otherwise it’s quite simple just to override the system and your savings will be zilch, and you will be out of pocket by R15 000 to R20 000. That doesn’t make any sense at all, unless you feel really good about boasting your green status.”
Before jumping into solar water heating, Goldie says you should consider other ways and means of saving energy. These include turning down the thermostat on the geyser, installing a timer, and using less hot water.
“The heat pump, for example is currently the way to go according to those who have them. There is much less energy requirement for seasonal changes and although still “on the grid”, the savings are very attractive. There is no rebate for heat pumps, but it’s in the pipeline.
“I would recommend you check the real savings over a 12 month period with any solar or water heating device, but above all prepare yourself for the “culture change”. There are many opinions on what the best ways are to save electricity and energy, so choose your sources carefully and apply conscious effort and commitment,” says Goldie.
