SOLAR HOT WATER SOLUTIONS
Looking to cut down on power bills and reduce your household energy use? At Uneeda Plumber, we install Apricus solar hot water systems – an energy-efficient solution designed to harness the power of the sun and deliver long term savings. We also repair and maintain existing systems, ensuring your hot water runs efficiently and reliably all year round.
SOLAR HOT WATER INVESTMENT
Solar hot water is a smart way to lower power bills while reducing your environmental impact. By switching from electric heating, you can cut household CO₂ emissions by around 400kg per year.
Apricus systems can be integrated into most existing hot water setups—including heat pump systems—making them a simple and cost-effective upgrade. With a typical payback period of just 6–8 years and a lifespan of 20+ years, you’ll benefit from long-term savings and reliable performance.
Built for New Zealand conditions, these systems use advanced evacuated tube technology to retain up to 95% of captured heat, working efficiently even in low sunlight and cold temperatures. Durable, weather-resistant materials ensure they stand up to harsh environments, from coastal areas to high winds and hail.
As an added bonus, solar hot water can also increase your property’s appeal and value, making it a worthwhile investment for the future.
Savings
Water heating typically accounts for 30–50% of a household's total power usage. By switching to solar, you can reduce your water heating costs by up to 75% in summer and see year-round savings of approximately 25% off your total power bill. Many customers report extremely low energy bills during the warmer months.
Sustainability
Heating water with electricity contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions. A solar hot water system can reduce your household CO₂ emissions by around 400kg per year—that’s equivalent to taking a small car off the road for over a month, every year.
Property Value
Solar hot water is a smart long-term investment. According to an Australian study by Realestate.com.au: 78% of homeowners believe solar hot water adds value to a property. 75% of renters said they would pay more to live in a home with solar hot water. Whether you’re selling or renting, it’s a highly appealing feature that sets your property apart.
QUALITY YOU CAN TRUST
Uneeda Plumber is the Manawatu’s approved installer of Apricus solar hot water systems.
Trusted to deliver expert installation and service for these industry-leading products. Apricus systems are tested to the highest international standards (Solar Rating & Certification Corporation, USA & Solar Keymark, Europe), exceeding most solar hot water systems available in New Zealand. We ensure every system is installed with precision, performance, and long-term peace of mind.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
HOW DO I KNOW WHETHER MY HOT WATER CYLINDER NEEDS REPAIRING OR REPLACING?
There are a few key signs to look out for that indicate whether you need a simple hot water cylinder repair in Palmerston North or a full replacement. If your cylinder is leaking from the body or base, is more than 15 years old, or is showing signs of corrosion, replacement is typically the best long-term investment.
Faults like a failed element or thermostat in a younger, otherwise healthy cylinder can often be repaired. Common warning signs that your cylinder needs attention include:
- Inconsistent water temperature or running out of hot water faster than usual
- Visible rust, corrosion, or damp around the cylinder
- A noticeable increase in your power bills with no change in usage
- Rumbling or popping noises from the cylinder during heating
- Leaking from the base or cylinder body
WHAT SIZE HOT WATER CYLINDER DO I NEED?
Cylinder sizing depends on the number of people in your household and your daily usage. Standard cylinder sizes in New Zealand are 135, 180, 250, and 300 litres—a household of two might be comfortable on 180 litres. A family of four will often need 250 litres or more, especially if everyone showers in the morning, or if teenagers are involved.
The type of cylinder also matters: heat pump systems tend to have a faster recovery rate, which can offset the need for a smaller tank. We factor all of this in during our consultation and recommend a size that genuinely suits your household.
HOW LONG DOES A HOT WATER CYLINDER REPLACEMENT TAKE?
Standard hot water cylinder replacement in Palmerston North typically takes about half a day to a full day to complete, depending on how complex the job is and whether it requires any electrical work. During our consultation, we’ll provide a clear timeframe for your job.