Installing A Solar Hot Water System

Jarrad Smith • October 10, 2023

Newcastle and Lake Macquarie are renowned for long sunny days, making a solar hot water system a dependable option to consider for your home. These systems, while more expensive to buy and have fitted when compared to the electric and gas hot water systems, will save you money on your energy bills over time. A solar hot water system can use up to 60% less energy than an electric or gas system, saving on energy costs and allowing you to live a bit lighter on the planet.

Solar hot water systems utilise the energy from sunlight to heat the water for your household. Each system has a backup booster system, which is either electric or gas, on days when there hasn't been enough sunlight to heat the water properly. Solar hot water systems, as the name suggests, require solar panels to be installed on your roof to gather energy from the sun, but they only heat your water and do not generate electricity.

Solar panels for your hot water system

Solar panels are required to be professionally fitted to your roof, ideally north facing, as this allows your panels to catch as much sun as possible. While installing the system on a north facing roof is the most efficient means to generate energy from the sun, it may not be possible on your roof. You may have an east facing skillion roof, but a solar hot water system may still work well on your roof. Contact the professional plumbers at Ausco Plumbing for more information.

Solar hot water system types

Two types of solar hot water systems can be installed, which include the close-coupled system and the pumped system. Each system is similar in that they both have solar panels and a booster system for those overcast days, but they provide hot water for your home in slightly different ways.

Close-coupled solar hot water system

This variety has solar panels installed on the roof, along with a storage tank on its side which is connected to the solar panels. The water gets heated when it moves through the collectors on a sunny day (collectors are based directly beneath the solar panels on the roof) where it then gets drawn into the storage tank and is ready to use, this process forces the cooler water into the base of the collectors to get heated. This system can heat water directly or indirectly. The above is an example of a close-coupled system heating water directly.

An indirect close-coupled solar hot water system, while more expensive than a direct system, is best for frost prone regions, mitigating damage to the collectors in the system that could otherwise occur from water freezing. This system features water treated with an antifreeze that is kept separate from your heated water within the storage tank, preventing the water within the collectors and tank from freezing.

Pumped solar hot water system

A pumped solar hot water system is different as it has a storage system inside the home, like a conventional electric or gas system, but with solar panels still installed on the roof. This type of solar hot water system features a pump that circulates water from the storage system to the collectors on the roof of the house, sending cold water to get heated and hot water into the storage tank ready to use. This system is an ideal option for homes that do not have a roof that can support the weight of the storage tanks of the close-coupled variety of solar hot water systems.

Size of solar hot water systems

Both a close-coupled solar hot water system and the pumped system come in a range of sizes to suit the needs of your household. Starting at a 120-160 litres storage capacity, enough for 1-2 people. Or a storage capacity between 300-370 litres for 3-4 four people in your home.

Contact experienced plumbers

A solar hot water system may not be suitable for every home around Newcastle or Lake Macquarie, for instance, if you live in a multi-storey block of apartments, in which case why not read about other options here. However, if you are contemplating a solar hot water system for your home, contact the team at Ausco Plumbing based in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie for more information.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

Step Into a Trade: How to Become a Plumber in Newcastle

By Jarrad Smith • July 7, 2025

Plumbing is a trade that’s always in demand across Australia, and Newcastle is no different. With new builds going up, older homes needing updates, and steady growth in the region, skilled plumbers are needed in homes, businesses, and on construction sites. If you’re looking for a hands-on job that pays well and offers long-term security, plumbing could be the right fit. This guide will break it all down: from how to get qualified, where to find plumbing apprentice jobs, and where to study plumbing courses right here in Newcastle. Why Choose a Plumbing Career? A plumbing career isn’t just about fixing taps. It’s a licensed trade that covers drainage, gas fitting, roofing, water supply, and sanitation. In Newcastle, demand is steady thanks to local construction and renovation activity. With a plumbing qualification, you can work across different sectors, start your own business, or even move into supervisory or estimating roles later on. On top of that, plumbers in Australia earn competitive wages, and apprentices earn while they learn, making it easier to get started without the burden of university fees. How to Become a Plumber in Australia To become a licensed plumber in Australia, you’ll need to complete a Certificate III in Plumbing, which most people do while working as an apprentice. It’s a mix of practical, on-the-job experience and formal training. Once you’ve finished your apprenticeship, you’ll need to register and apply for your licence through your state’s regulator—NSW Fair Trading if you’re in New South Wales. After passing the required exams, you’ll be all set to work independently in the areas you’ve trained for. Plumbing Apprenticeships in Newcastle If you're in Newcastle and looking to start your plumbing career, a plumbing apprenticeship is usually the first step. It takes about four years and combines paid, hands-on work with classroom learning. To get started, you’ll need to find an employer to take you on. This could be a local plumber, a builder, or a maintenance crew. You can find openings through: Online job boards (like SEEK or Indeed) Group training organisations in the Newcastle area TAFE NSW career support services Word of mouth and local connections As a plumbing apprentice, you’ll work alongside licensed plumbers, gaining hands-on experience with drainage systems, pipework, roof plumbing, gas fitting, and more. You’ll also attend classes as part of your plumbing apprenticeship Newcastle pathway, building your knowledge of codes, safety, and the theory behind the tools. Plumbing Courses and Training in Newcastle Newcastle offers several training options for future plumbers. The most common qualification is the Certificate III in Plumbing, which is usually delivered over four years during your apprenticeship. You can study through TAFE NSW Newcastle, which provides practical facilities and experienced trainers. Some Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) also offer plumbing courses in the region. These courses cover: Water supply and drainage systems Sanitary plumbing Roofing and guttering Workplace safety and legislation Gas fitting fundamentals Some students start with a pre-apprenticeship plumbing course in Newcastle to build confidence and get a foot in the door. These short programs can help you land an apprenticeship by giving you basic trade skills and a better understanding of the job. Plumbing Jobs and Opportunities in Newcastle Once you’ve completed your training, there are plenty of plumbing jobs available across Newcastle and the Hunter region. You could work in residential maintenance, new home construction, commercial fit-outs, or large-scale infrastructure projects. There are entry-level jobs for those finishing apprenticeships, along with more advanced roles for licensed plumbers who want to specialise or manage teams. Plumbing jobs can also lead to roles in project management, estimating, or compliance. Keep an eye on local job boards, trade group websites, and talk to your trainers or mentors. Many plumbers get hired by companies they worked with during their apprenticeship. Exploring Trade Careers Beyond Plumbing While plumbing is a solid career choice, it’s also part of a wider world of skilled trades. If you're still exploring, you might also consider: Electrical Carpentry Air conditioning and refrigeration Tiling or waterproofing Metal fabrication or welding Each of these trades has its own training path and licensing process. They all share a common thread: practical, hands-on work with opportunities to grow and earn as you build your experience. If you start with plumbing but later discover a different interest, you’re still gaining skills that apply across many trades and careers. Tips for Success in Your Plumbing Career Stay curious : Ask questions on-site and during class. Every job is a chance to learn. Build your network : Stay connected with trainers, classmates, and employers. Many plumbing jobs come through referrals. Keep your attitude right : Be reliable, show up prepared, and take pride in your work. Invest in good tools : As you progress, start building your kit with quality tools that last. Consider future training : Once qualified, you can add new plumbing classes to your license or specialise further. Launch Your Plumbing Career If you’re based in Newcastle and looking for a practical, respected trade, plumbing might be the perfect fit. Begin exploring local plumbing apprentice jobs, get to know your training options, and take the first step into a career that keeps our homes and cities running. Ready to get started? Reach out to your local TAFE or trade group, talk to working plumbers, and learn more about plumbing Newcastle locals rely on every day.