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Quality of installation, Reliability, performance and service.
Quality of installation
Many solar hot water dealers are just that. They only deal with solar hot water systems, employing salesmen on a commission basis and sub-contracting out the installation. Some dealers have never even installed a solar hot water system. Quality Solar and Plumbing do not sub-contract out any part of the installation of your new solar hot water system. We follow through completely on all aspects of our work. All our staff have lived locally for many years. It is in our interest that our jobs generate continual work through word of mouth referrals. Consideration is given to the best type and location for your new solar hot water system, the best way to run pipework (to ensure efficiency and minimum maintenance), as well as the best possible easthetics.
Reliability
Edwards Solar Hot Water Systems have been made in Australia since 1963 and, continuing product development has kept pace with emerging technologies, ensuring quality, durability and optimum performance. As our storage cylinders in our L and LX range are made from Marine Grade Stainless Steel, you can be assured of the longest life span with the least maintenance. Our tough colourbond casing available in a variety of colours is also hail resistance, compared to the lightweight aluminium casing used by some other brands which is easily damaged by hail.
Performance
Performance is governed by three factors, correct installation, thermal insulation, and the effectiveness of the solar collectors to transfer heat from the sun into the water. For a solar hot water system to be installed correctly it should be facing as close as possible to North, at an inclination greater than 12°. Around 28° is ideal. There should also be a slight rise across the panels so as to assist the thermosiphon flow of hot water from the panels to the tank. The insulation in the tank should be sufficient to retain as much heat as possible. Fortunately now, there are standards (MEPs) to ensure that hot water storage cylinders meet certain requirements regarding the effectiveness of insulation. Edwards was one of the few manufacturers that did not have to make major changes to their manufacturing process when these requirements came into force.
All solar hot water heaters are independently rated for performance by the Office of Renewable Energy. Don't be fooled by exagerated claims of performance. The Edwards base model 305 litre system is rated at 31 Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs). Our high performance 305 litre model 34 RECs. The higher the value of RECs, the better the performance. Some solar hot water systems sold locally claiming to be the "New Generation" of solar hot water heaters only attract 17 REC's. For more info see our page comparing the actual performance of Evacuated Glass Tube Systems.
A cold water expansion valve is supplied with all Edwards on-roof systems. The cold water expansion valve is recommended in the Australian Standards to relieve stress on the storage cylinder as well as reducing valuable hot water loss through expansion.
Service
This includes quality of installation and reliable back-up service. With over 26 years experience in the plumbing industry and a commitment to customer satisfaction, with Quality Solar and Plumbing, you can be assured of a quality job as well as reliable back-up service when you need it.