Where Solahart comes from
Solahart's about page dates its first solar water heater to 1953. Its company timeline says Solahart joined Paloma Co. Ltd. in 2001.
These days the home page also lists solar panels, batteries, EV chargers and a home energy management system. For hot water, the range splits into four kinds of system.
The four kinds of Solahart system
- Rooftop solar. Solahart lists "Rooftop Solar Water Heating" and describes a "classic 'Thermosiphon' system".
- Split solar. Listed on its own as "Split Solar". Ask where the tank and the roof collectors would each go.
- Atmos heat pumps. Models include the Atmos Eco, Atmos EcoSplit and Atmos Frost. Solahart says many of its heat pump systems are made right here in Australia.
- PowerStore. Solahart calls this one a "solar-smart electric water heater".
Matching a Solahart type to your house
Start with the roof. Rooftop and split solar both rely on collectors up there, so shade, space and the direction the roof faces all come into it.
If the roof is crowded or shaded, look at the heat pumps instead. Ask where the unit would sit and how close it is to bedrooms.
Already have solar panels making electricity? Ask how PowerStore or an Atmos heat pump would work with them before you choose.
Solar and heat pump models need to be on the Clean Energy Regulator's register to earn STCs. Check the exact model on your quote is listed. See how STCs work.
What to ask a plumber about Solahart
- Which Solahart system suits my roof, my yard and the way we use hot water?
- Is this model on the register for STCs, and how does the discount show on the quote?
- Who services Solahart around here: you, or a Solahart dealer?
- Where is the warranty explained for this exact model?
- What maintenance does it need each year, and which checks can I do myself?
Warranty and service
Solahart's warranty page doesn't list hot water conditions itself. It sends you to the Solahart Owner's Guide and Installation Instructions for your product. Keep that booklet with the system.
For service or a warranty claim, Solahart says to call it or contact your nearest Solahart dealer. Its about page talks about service from "your local authorised dealer".
What we would do
Get the plumber to look at your roof and your yard with you before anyone picks a model. A Solahart system only works as well as the spot it goes in. Ask for the full model name on the quote, check it on Solahart's site, and file the Owner's Guide where you'll find it years from now. A plumber who specialises in hot water can tell you which of the four types your house suits.