Rising electricity prices and increasing concern for the rapid deterioration of the environment have accentuated the need to find alternative energy solutions. Although South Africans aren’t on par with the rest of the world when it comes to alternative energy, the unexpected bout of load shedding at the beginning of 2008 was an eye-opener.
Solar water heating now plays a huge part in electricity savings, with Eskom offering incentives to consumers who invest in solar geysers. Although the greater focus on solar water heating is good news for Eskom and the environment, consumers risk finding themselves at the shallow end of the dream pool.
Greater focus on the solar water heating industry presented a business opportunity for many. Unreliable, cheaper systems are imported by the hundreds and sold to unsuspecting consumers. This frustrates the consumer, hurts the solar heating industry and undermines Eskom’s attempts to create an energy-conscious South Africa.
Below is a list of questions every consumer should ask before investing in a solar geyser:
- Was the system designed specifically for our harsh weather conditions?
- Were the tanks and panels manufactured in the same factory to optimize functionality?
- Does the manufacturer of the system provide a warranty with the unit?
- If so, what is the warranty term?
- What are the conditions and what is covered under the warranty?
- How long has the solar water heating company been in business to ensure that they can meet the warranty period?
- Is the solar water heater subsidised by Eskom?
- Does the complete system carry the SABS mark of approval?
- What training or accreditation do the installers involved in the installation, have?
- Is the unit properly insulated to ensure optimal heat retention?
- Is the unit protected against overheating, freezing and excessive pressure?
- How often does the system need to be serviced?
- What is the life expectancy of the system, and can the company provide proof thereof?
Rising electricity prices and increasing concern for the rapid deterioration of the environment have accentuated the need to find alternative energy solutions. Although South Africans aren’t on par with the rest of the world when it comes to alternative energy, the unexpected bout of load shedding at the beginning of 2008 was an eye-opener.
Solar water heating now plays a huge part in electricity savings, with Eskom offering incentives to consumers who invest in solar geysers. Although the greater focus on solar water heating is good news for Eskom and the environment, consumers risk finding themselves at the shallow end of the dream pool.
Greater focus on the solar water heating industry presented a business opportunity for many. Unreliable, cheaper systems are imported by the hundreds and sold to unsuspecting consumers. This frustrates the consumer, hurts the solar heating industry and undermines Eskom’s attempts to create an energy-conscious South Africa.
Below is a list of questions every consumer should ask before investing in a solar geyser:
- Was the system designed specifically for our harsh weather conditions?
- Were the tanks and panels manufactured in the same factory to optimize functionality?
- Does the manufacturer of the system provide a warranty with the unit?
- If so, what is the warranty term?
- What are the conditions and what is covered under the warranty?
- How long has the solar water heating company been in business to ensure that they can meet the warranty period?
- Is the solar water heater subsidised by Eskom?
- Does the complete system carry the SABS mark of approval?
- What training or accreditation do the installers involved in the installation, have?
- Is the unit properly insulated to ensure optimal heat retention?
- Is the unit protected against overheating, freezing and excessive pressure?
- How often does the system need to be serviced?
- What is the life expectancy of the system, and can the company provide proof thereof?