FEATURE 19
There is also a customer-perception issue. Customers accustomed to strong mains-pressure showers may find a low-pressure system disappointing, even when the geyser itself is operating correctly. If the homeowner later wants to convert from low pressure to high pressure, the existing plumbing and components may need to be modified or replaced.
Common installation mistakes
• Undesignated installers – to be able to install solar geysers, you need to have the appropriate solar geyser installation designation. Note: Solar installer designations can be acquired through technical colleges or industry bodies, such as IOPSA through its e-learning LMS system – visit www. iopsa. org for more information.
• Roofs are not strengthened before solar geysers are installed – if required, roof trusses and timber need to be strengthened to accommodate the weight and size of the solar geysers.
• Solar geysers are installed without taking future shade into consideration – for example, a nearby tree may not be an issue at the time of installation but may leave the solar geyser in shade as it grows.
• No lagging or insulation – solar geysers need to be properly lagged and insulated.
• Incorrect sizing – When switching from an electric to solar geyser installations, it is important to remember that the designated water per person per day needs to be increased from 50l( for electric geysers) to 125l. If this is not done, the system will only operate partially on solar, and electricity will still be used.
• Imported solar geysers are made for a south facing orientation and the installation instructions need to be amended as in South Africa solar installations must be north facing, so ensure your solar geyser is north facing when installing products imported from overseas.
Manufacturer requirements and SANS standards It can sometimes be difficult to balance SANS standards and manufacturers ' instructions. When unsure, pay close attention to the wording used in SANS standards:
• Must / shall = nonnegotiable; follow the SANS requirement.
• Should = recommended for good practice, but there is some flexibility. In these scenarios, it is best to consider the OHS Act, manufacturer’ s instructions and local bylaws.
In conclusion The choice between high- and low-pressure solar geysers is ultimately determined by the property ' s water pressure, plumbing arrangement, hot-water requirements and the system ' s design. High-pressure systems offer stronger water delivery and compatibility with modern fixtures but require more pressure-control, safety and expansion-management components.
Low-pressure systems can offer a simpler, lower-cost solution where the hydraulic arrangement is appropriate, but their performance depends heavily on gravity / head pressure and compatible fixtures. For the plumber, the starting point is therefore simple: check the available pressure and the property ' s requirements before selecting the geyser.
From there, follow the manufacturer ' s requirements and applicable SANS standards, use correctly rated components, and ensure the installation is carried out by an appropriately qualified and accredited installer. PA
“ Don ' t install the panels first and figure out the geyser afterwards. Design the complete solar hotwater system first, then install every component according to the manufacturer ' s instructions and applicable SANS requirements. – Johan van Vuuren, Supahot”
A common installation mistake is not strengthening roof trusses or timber.
HelloDavidPradoPerucha | Magnific
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November 2026 Volume 32 I Number 09 www. plumbingafrica. co. za