IQ Retail
Energy in Stellenbosch

At Hidrou-land CC we can provide a broad range of energy solutions including designs and implementation of energy savings projects, power generation and energy supply, energy infrastructure outsourcing, energy conservation, retrofitting, and risk management. We have also partnered with the best companies to provide you with the best support, technical support and aftersales service. We have the knowledge and the resources to do energy audits and to give the best advice on how to save energy while cutting down costs.

Solar water heating systems are innovative products that harness the energy of the sun to provide sustainable water heating to residential and commercial properties. Prevalent in South Africa, Australia and India, as well as a number of countries throughout the world, they provide mature renewable energy. Used in both residential and commercial applications, solar water heaters harness the energy of the sun to provide a commercial or domestic residence with hot water. To heat water through solar energy panels a solar energy collector is fitted to the roof of the building. The collected sunlight heats working fluid (pressurised liquid used for power) and either pumped or directed by natural convection through the collector. Once the water has been suitably heated it is stored in an insulated hot water tank for usage. There are two separate solar water heating systems. These are active and passive solar water heating systems. The active solar water heating system has circulating pumps and controls. Direct circulation systems circulate household water through the collectors and into the home. They are especially effective in warmer climates when the temperature rarely drops below zero, and as such are effective in a country like South Africa. Indirect circulation systems circulate a non-freezing heat transfer fluid through collectors and a heat exchanger. This heats the water which then flows into the home. Passive water heating systems are cheaper than their active counterparts, though they are considered to be less efficient. They are, however, considered to be more reliable and durable. Passive solar water heating systems fall into two distinct categories. Integral collector-storage passive systems are best-suited to warmer climates. They are highly effective in households that use significant quantities of water throughout the daytime and evening. Thermosyphon Systems are designed to allow water to flow through the internal system. Thermosyphon Systems are generally considered to be reliable however they do feature a heavy water tank. For this reason it’s advised that they aren’t placed on the roofing of a building. In addition, they are generally more expensive than integral collector-storage passive systems. As you can see due consideration needs to be taken when deciding on the most appropriate water heating system for your residence or commercial property. However, with a little care you can have the water heating system that is best-suited to your individual needs.