Facing north, a collector is placed in the roof, which contains the water. The sun heats the water in the collector, and the water then runs into a tank, which is normally mounted at ground level (also known as a ‘split system’).
Then, the water is fed into the house via natural rising (thermo-siphoning) and a pump.
After the hot water tap is turned off, cooling water that is left in the tank is fed back into the collector for reheating. This happens in a continuous cycle, saving the owner up to 75% on their energy requirements for heating water.
Using the sun’s heat for generating power for hot water heating reduces the need for power companies to burn non-renewable fossil fuels to generate electricity or gas. And if you’re using less electricity or gas, those bills will reduce drastically, saving you money.
Generally no. Do make sure, however, that you choose roof windows that are coated with a UV-blocking film, such as the products in the Velux range from Solarite Energy, which protect occupants from dangerous rays and uncomfortable heat.
Skylights are usually fixed and cannot be opened. A roof window, just like a standard well-installed window, is able to be opened and closed to let fresh air into a space, as well naturally illuminating a room.
Any skylight that is made from laminated or toughened glass will withstand hail in all non-exceptional cases. Acrylic domes also resist hail damage very well, due to their construction and shape. However, with the nature of acrylics, it is recommended that you replace the dome component every 15 years.
The panel contains layers of materials called semiconductors, which capture sufficient sunlight and convert the energy into electricity. This electricity is then used in your home, often as a complementary element to another form of power generation.
In some case, yes. The Queensland Solar Bonus Scheme was introduced for households that can direct their surplus power back into the grid. Of course, legislation can change rapidly, so make sure you ask a dealer like Solarite Energy about any changes in eligibility, or see the Queensland Department of Energy and Water Supply’s website for updates.
There is a set standard for average daily use for each property. Your home-generated energy is used for your property first, and if you do not use up all of your daily allocation the excess is fed into the grid.
Most roofs constructed from standard materials, with a pitch of anywhere between 2° and 85°, are able have a skylight installed.
Most of the time, no, but rules and regulations can differ from council to council. If you’re unsure, ask Solarite Energy about any possible permissions needed, or see the Queensland Government’s local government directory.
Acrylic domes on top of a skylight have a lifespan of about 15 years. Glass-topped skylights last many years longer.