Complete Envirosun Review: Everything You Need to Know

Envirosun Australia Solar Hot Water Systems & Heat Pumps

Envirosun is one of Australia’s leading solar hot water system and heat pump providers in Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific, offering innovative and energy-efficient solutions. If you’re considering purchasing an Envirosun or Enviroheat product for your household or business, do your due diligence in understanding the company and its products so you know what to expect. This comprehensive review details everything you need to know about Envirosun hot water heaters, where to find its range of hot water systems, storage tanks, and heat pumps, and how to install and integrate Envirosun’s solar heating product range into your household. Envirosun is 100% Australian owned, with a range of hot water systems that are designed and built specifically to suit the Australian climate.Solar hot water systems are classed in 3 different types, Thermosyphon, Split Solar and the Air Sourced Solar also known as a Heat Pump

Envirosun Australia Product Types

Solar Hot Water Systems

Access to hot water in our households is something we all need. However, hot water energy usage can be both expensive and taxing on the environment with the amount of electricity required to consistently support a home. Solar hot water heating systems have become increasingly popular over the past decade as people acknowledge the need for more energy-efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions for managing their household needs. The big advantage of using a solar hot water system, beyond environmental benefits, is the long-term cost savings. Generating energy from the sun removes the need to pay for electricity for water heating, which is why many people see the system’s upfront cost as an investment in future savings. Even when used with traditional electrical hot water systems, solar systems can significantly reduce the electricity bill. In fact, the Sustainable Energy Authority of Victoria cites that a well-maintained solar hot water system can save a household’s energy bills of up to $600 annually. There are two types of solar hot water systems: Split Systems (also known as Active solar hot water systems) and passive systems. Envirosun provides both options for consumers.

Split solar hot water heaters (Active Solar Hot Water Systems)

A Split System (also referred to as an Active Solar system) is a system where the water in the solar collectors is circulated by a pump, drawing cold water from the storage tank or heat exchanger, pushing it through the collectors and back to the tank or heat exchanger as heated water. There are two different types of split circulation hot water systems; direct circulation and indirect circulation systems. The direct circulation pumps the household water through different collector systems before being fed into the home. These are best for warmer climates that don’t experience freezing periods. The indirect system uses a heat exchanger, which pumps heat-transfer water that flows through the home. They’re more suitable for climates that get cooler (those with freezing temperatures). Envirosun’s AS (Active Solar) Split System products operate fairly simply; the solar hot water panels – or solar collectors – absorb and add heat to the storage tank. The water is circulated from the collectors with a small pump, and cool tank water is added to continue to heat the water. There is just a small amount of power used in these circulation pumps (approximately lower than 28 watts).  The pump operates when the collectors are 6 degrees Celsius hotter than the storage tank water. When the collectors are less than 4 degrees, the pump stops. The microprocessor within the Envirosun’s system controls this temperature mechanism to ensure the water does not reach dangerous temperature levels.

Thermosiphon solar hot water heaters (Passive Solar Hot Water Systems)

Although the passive systems have a more economical price tag, they’re slightly less efficient in their capacity to heat water than the active split systems. The advantage of such a system is that it typically lasts longer than other systems – the durability and reliability are huge selling points.  The main types of passive systems include the integral collector-storage system and the thermosyphon system. The integral systems have a storage tank covered with see-through material to allow the sun’s rays to heat the water. This heated water flows into the household plumbing. These systems are great for households in climates that don’t freeze and have a high need for daytime and nighttime hot water.

Thermosyphon Passive Solar Hot Water Systems

In this type of passive system, the hot water storage tank is located on the roof and directly connected to solar panels. This heated water then feeds through the plumbing system when the hot water has been initiated through a faucet in the house (when someone turns on the hot water tap in the shower, for example). They’re also often referred to as a “closed coupled system.” The most popular Envirosun hot water product is its Thermosyphon system: the Envirosun TS Plus Solar hot water system.

Heat Pumps (Air Sourced Solar Hot Water Systems)

Envirosun offers two heat pumps; the original Enviroheat Heat Pump and the upgraded Enviosun HP Plus Heat Pump. Heat pumps are also called “air source” solar systems. While they use electricity to operate, they’re easily three times more efficient than other more traditional electric water heaters, a massive 70% saving. Heat pumps help you save energy, offer greater accessibility for hot water round-the-clock, and contribute to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. For example, the efficient heat-transferring properties of Envirosun’s heat pumps water heaters mean that for every 1kW of electricity, more than 4kW of heat can be converted. The main mechanism for heating is to use the ambient air to transfer the heat energy into the solar hot water system. The compression mechanism and fluid heat exchange process essentially mean a continuous heating cycle, allowing for more accessibility of hot water from solar systems. Heat pumps are primarily used as a backup heating source (or supplementary one) if the sunlight is diminished and unable to meet the household’s hot water demands.  Even at temperatures as low as -7 degrees Celsius, an Envirosun HP Plus and Enviroheat heat pump can convert this air into heat potential for your hot water.

The Complete Envirosun Product Range

Envirosun TS Plus Solar Hot Water System

As the most awarded solar hot water system on the market, this is undoubtedly Envirosun’s best seller. This Thermosyphon system is made from 444 stainless steel, sourced from Holland, and assembled in Australia. The Envirosun TS Plus solar panels have been crafted with corrosive-resistant materials:

• Full copper absorption plates (for superior heat transfer with thermal conductivity and higher durability with more resistance to corrosion).
• Aluminium frames (for sturdy, safe installation and functioning over long periods).
• Solid Brass fittings (corrosion resistance and durability withstanding high temperature and pressure changes).
• Stainless steel secure fittings (leak prevention, corrosion resistant, and non-toxic).

Envirosun THX Plus Solar hot water system

The Envirosun THX Plus solar hot water system is a roof mounted tank solar water heater and like the Envirosun TS Plus uses a European made stainless steel storage tank. Envirosun THX Plus is a closed circuit “Glycol” thermosiphon solar water heater than can be used in high frost regions and locations where the water quality is not the greatest. The Glycol (antifreeze/anitboil) transfer fluid flows between the solar panels and a outer layer around the storage tank heating the water within. Solar collectors are again super efficient solar panels from the Amercian company Heliodyne. Offering a massive 10 year tank and panel warranty the Envirosun THX is the leader in Australian colder climates

Envirosun AS Split Solar Hot Water System

The Envirosun AS solar hot water system (split solar) is crafted from Australian-made storage cylinders with materials sourced from Europe. Their corrosive-resistant parts, just like the TS solar system, add to greater longevity and durability, even in tough weather conditions. The AS solar hot water products are designed specifically with Australian climates in mind – from dry desertous weather to more coastal wet regions. Envirosun’s AS Solar hot water systems include super durable storage cylinders (with excellent heat retention properties), advanced solar panels, and innovative European pumping and control mechanisms crafted from copper, aluminium, and brass (see the materials above used in the TS system).  

Enviroheat Heat Pump Water Heater

This was Envirosun’s first heat pump system under the “Enviroheat” subbrand. It was created by the world’s biggest appliance manufacturer that works with General Electric, Haier, and Fisher and Paykel brands. The Enviroheat Heat Pump was initially introduced to the European market over a decade ago and has been brought to the Australian solar hot water heater market to give consumers the capacity to extend the performance of their solar hot water systems.

Envirosun HP Plus Heat Pump

The HP Plus heat pump from Envirosun is the premium upgrade of the Enviroheat pump. As of 2023, it is only available in Queensland and New South Wales in Australia. This model is similar to the Enviroheat pump, with the upgrades coming in the form of additional valves to add greater protection to the storage tank. The Envirosun HP Plus Heat Pump can save you up to 70% on your water heating bills and has attained a higher STC rating by the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator than most other Australian heat pumps on the market. The HP Plus hot water tanks have protection from two sacrificial anodes, which creates a longer storage tank lifespan. It’s smaller than many other heat pumps, making it suitable for smaller households to heat water, even with limited storage space that still has a need for round-the-clock hot water.

Best-Selling Envirosun Hot Water Products

Below are Envirosun’s most popular hot water systems available in Australia for residential and commercial use.

Envirosun TS Plus Solar Hot Water System

This is Envirosun’s best-selling product. It is known as the most sustainable, environmentally friendly system that the brand manufactures. The Envirosun TS Plus 300 litre operated with an open circuit 2-panel thermosyphon system.

Envirosun THX Plus Solar Hot Water System

Similar to the Envirosun TS Plus system, the Envirosun THX Plus is also a popular solar unit from the company. The difference is that it is a closed-circuit glycol solar system, which is more suitable for high frost-prone, cooler climates.

Envirosun AS Split Hot Water System

The Envirosun AS systems are the active solar water heaters that the brand manufactures. The solar panels are installed on the roof to collect the sun’s energy, with the hot water tank located in any convenient place in your home. The two popular solar water heating AS systems that Envirosun offers consumers include:

• Envirosun AS Split 315lt
• Envirosun AS Split 400l

Envirosun HP Plus Solar Hot Water System

The Envirosun HP Plus solar hot water systems are the upgraded versions of the Enviroheat Hot Water Heaters below. The two products in this range include:

• Envirosun HP Plus 250lt
• Envirosun HP Plus 200lt

Enviroheat Heat Pumps

The Enviroheat heat pump models offer consumers a way to have economical hot water provided even without direct sunlight. The heat pumps operate by using the ambient air, which is converted to heat energy, to create the hot water. The two core products in the Enviroheat hot water heater range include:

• Enviroheat 250lt
• Enviroheat 200lt

Why Choose Solar Hot Water Systems and Pumps

There are many reasons why choosing a solar hot water system and heat pump is an advantageous lifestyle choice. Solar systems continue to rise in popularity, and for good reason. Below are the top benefits of choosing a solar hot water system: Energy Friendly: By harnessing directly from the sun’s energy, a solar hot water system gets access to this free, renewable resource, reducing the need to rely on conventional energy-taxing sources (like gas or electricity). The effectiveness of solar heating is also energy efficient, as the sun can heat water faster and for longer (especially with Envirosun’s innovative storage tanks). Saves You Money: Following from above, you can reduce the cost of your gas or electric bills by using solar energy to heat water. Rising energy costs of conventional systems set homeowners up for long-term savings when they choose solar. Not only can solar save you money, but the resale value of your property can increase if you have solar panels installed. Add to that the long Envirosun hot water warranties, and you’re increasing the value of your home by choosing one of Envirosun’s solar hot water systems. Environmentally Supportive: Being eco-friendly solutions, solar systems aren’t adding to greenhouse gas emissions like many conventional energy sources. Using a solar hot water system will reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a happier environment. Durable and Easy to Maintain: A solar hot water heater is durable over long periods. With minimal maintenance required, the effective systems that the heaters, the tank and solar panels, and pumps operate under mean there is less chance of system failures and repairs needed. Envirosun’s solar panels are made to withstand harsh weather, and the design of the solar hot water storage tank enables you to hold and heat your household water for decades if you’re caring for your system.

Top Benefits of Choosing Envirosun Hot Water Products

Quality And Longevity

All Envirosun systems adhere to high standards of quality control; They:

• Are accredited to International quality standards: ISO 9001
• Comply with Australian and New Zealand design standards: AS/NZS 2712
• Are registered by the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator: CER
• Have higher STC ratings (from the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator) than most other solar hot water systems and heat pumps on the market.
• (See more about Envirosun’s hot water accolades and awards below; the TS Plus Solar Hot Water system has received a lot of attention in the hot water industry).

Reliable 100% Australian Company

Envirosun takes pride in being affiliated with a large national network for authorised technicians and installers, offering support for your solar hot water heater and pump whenever you need it. This 100% Australian family-owned company definitely has local values in mind, working with Aussie manufacturers where possible and with dealers across the entire country (including in New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands). The local mentality shines, especially regarding their accessible customer care (more info on how to reach Envirosun for support below).

Affordable Hot Water

With the specialist network of dealers and installers across Australia, not only are their systems accessible to purchase and maintain, but Envirosun has made efforts to provide competitive costs to remain the market leader in solar hot water. While they’re at the higher end of the market in the price of their solar panels and hot water systems, they stay competitive with other brands of similar high quality. Their generous warranties (check our warranty guide) also give peace of mind to consumers that their hot water heater investment is well taken care of.

Specialists in Innovative Technology

Envirosun manufactures and sources the most innovative and up-to-date tech and materials for their systems, from advanced solar hot water panels to innovative and durable hot water tanks and pumps. They’ve teamed up with progressive global manufacturers to keep the quality of their products above many others on the market today (which explains their slightly higher price tag than basic solar systems). Two key features of the Envirosun range make them stand out from competitors; their control technology and storage tanks. Envirosun’s multiprocessor controller with an LED screen gives you complete oversight and access to manage your hot water system and stay informed of its performance over time. This can offer detailed information about your solar hot water system, from temperature controls to energy usage (which helps you also determine your energy cost savings). The Envirosun solar panels and hot water cylinders are extremely durable, with the tanks built for reliable water storage over a long time. The solar hot water cylinders are made with polyurethane thermal insulation, which offers high-density protection, even with increased pressures and temperatures. This insulation system retains more heat for longer and operates under extremely high water pressure, delivering your household hot water faster.

Envirosun Warranty Details

The long warranties of the Envirosun products are a drawcard for the brand, as they go up to 10 years and cover a range of faculties, from storage tanks and solar panels to electrical components. Each warranty offer is listed below:

• ENVIROSUN TS PLUS SOLAR HOT WATER

Warranty: 10-year tank warranty and 7-year panel warranty

• ENVIROSUN THX PLUS SOLAR HOT WATER

Warranty: 10 year tank solar panel warranty

• ENVIROSUN AS SOLAR HOT WATER

Warranty: 7 years on both Envirosun solar panels and tank

• ENVIROHEAT HEAT PUMP WATER HEATER

Warranty: 5-year replacement warranty for tank or mechanical failure, 1-year coverage on electrical components.

• ENVIROSUN HP PLUS HEAT PUMP

Warranty: 7-year tank warranty and 5-year mechanical and electrical warranty.

Envirosun Hot Water Heater Installation

Can I install Envirosun products myself?

It’s not possible to install the solar hot water unit yourself. Installation is a complex process requiring professionals to ensure it is done right the first time. Working with heavy equipment in plumbing and electrical systems poses many risks. Without the training to understand where the danger is, you’ll be putting yourself at risk if you try to install the solar panels yourself. If the solar panels, hot water heater, storage tank, or heat pumps are not installed correctly, this can impact the efficiency of the entire system, and you may be sacrificing the productivity and output of your system if you attempt DIY installation. Plus, in order for Envirosun’s warranties to be valid, they need to be installed by a licensed professional. This means DIY installation will void any warranty conditions. Beyond that, there are regulatory issues, system sizing needs, permits or inspection problems, and more reasons why DIY solar hot water system installation shouldn’t be done. It’s simple to find a licensed installer for your Envirosun system on Comparehotwater.com

Where can I find an Envirosun Installer?

There are a few options to find and organise a local installer for your system. The general process of organising an installer would be as follows:

1. Contact a professional company like Compare Hot Water to be linked with local installers who work in your region.
2. Get information on their experience, credentials, and other information demonstrating their expertise.
3. Assess the different price quotes to compare and find a solution within your budget.
4. Ensure the professional understands Envirosun’s warranty requirements and has the necessary permits and inspections organised.
5. Schedule your installation.

When you work with Compare Hot Water, they do all this for you. You’ll be given recommendations for the best installers in your area who offer competitive rates and are certified to work with Envirosun’s products to keep your warranty in-tact. That way, you don’t need to spend hours searching online and calling multiple different installers.

What is the cost of installing Envirosun products?

The Envirosun cost of installation will vary depending on a few different factors. Every installer is different, and the prices will reflect the conditions of your home, the complexity of the hot water system you choose, and the expertise of the professional solar hot water system installer. Always request a quote from multiple installers before you decide so you know the general market price and have more confidence in your choice. Compare Hot Water can save you time and effort by shopping around for an affordable and experienced local installer in your area so you can trust that you’re getting the best value for your money with your Envriosun installation.

Envirosun’s Customer Service

The main customer service channels that Envirosun offers are the main website contact form, a direct phone number, or contact information offered in the directory of dealers. The professional Envirosun dealer network includes areas all across Australia, as well as the South Pacific and New Zealand, including:

• Queensland
• Victoria
• Western Australia
• Northern Territory
• New South Wales
• ACT
• South Australia
• Tasmania
• South Pacific Islands
• New Zealand

You can access a quote, get advice, or enquire about installation in your local area by reaching out to Compare Hot Water. The team of specialist advisors can support you with your Envirosun product purchasing, and link you with a licensed technician to help you install and maintain your Envirosun product.

Envirosun Price Range

The price of Envirosun products depends on the particular model, how new the product is, and where you purchase it from. Generally, the prices for Envirosun solar systems range from $2,000 to $5,000. The products can also be more affordable if you access one of the Australian government rebates and incentives for installing a solar hot water heater and heat pump. You would need to look into whether these are available in your area and for your particular product. To get a quote on the Envirosun product that you’re interested in, contact Compare Hot Water.

Awards and Accolaides

Envirosun has an impressive reputation when it comes to the solar hot water system market in Australia. With rigorous testing and quality control processes, the systems have some of the highest safety certifications possible. Many Envirosun reviews mention the following accolades:

• Winner of the 2022 JR Solar Hot Water Systems Top 8: Envirosun TS Plus Solar 300L Twin Panel Close-Coupled System.
• Envirosun THX Plus glycol solar hot water system & Envirosun TU Plus are government-tested and have the highest STC rating of any other brand on the market.
• Envirosun TS Plus 309 litre 2-panel system has an STC rating of 40 (in Zone 3), which is about 20% more than Rheem and Solahart.
• The Enviroheat Pumps are certified by the Australian Government Clean Energy Regulator, with a higher STC rating (29) than other Australian heat pumps on the market.

Envirosun Review: Our Verdict

Where Envirosun stands out is its commitment to sourcing high-quality materials by partnering with manufacturers around the globe to create superior solar hot water systems. While designing the range of hot water systems to meet international quality standards, Envirosun also remains a 100% Australian family-owned company. One of the biggest drawcards of Envirosun’s brand would be their generous warranties on all solar hot water systems and heat pump products, with the average being 7 years and some solar water heaters reaching up to 10 years.

The tank and solar panels will have different warranty lengths, depending on the range you’re using. This gives consumers peace of mind that they’ll be supported to keep their household hot water flowing smoothly even if replacements or repairs are needed. While the cost of Envirosun’s solar hot water systems and heat pumps isn’t the cheapest on the market, they back their pricing up with the efforts to pass their products through rigorous testing to provide homeowners with a reliable solar hot water system. For consumers looking to reduce their need to use an electric hot water system, Envirosun solar water heaters are a solid choice. Overall, we understand why Envirosun’s solar hot water systems and heat pump products are leaders in the market. If you’re decided to go with an Envirosun product, reach out to Compare Hot Water for the supply, installation, and maintenance of your hot water unit.

About Envirosun Australia: Company Background

Envirosun supplies Australia, New Zealand, and South Pacific Islands with their innovative range of heat pump water heaters and energy-efficient solar hot water systems. The Envirosun company was created over two decades ago, after the founders took a fifteen-year internship in the solar hot water system industry, learning from the best.  As the solar hot water heating global market rapidly grew, the founders of Envirosun took advantage of the opportunity to create a niche offering in the Australian market.  The vision was to connect with the best and largest international solar products and hot water system manufacturing companies to develop and provide the most innovative products; Envirosun was born. This led to alliances being forged between Envirosun and the leading solar hot water and heat pump specialists and manufacturers worldwide, including Italy, China, Holland, Germany, and Australia.  From there, Envirosun has developed solar hot water solutions and heat pumps (also under the brand “Enviroheat and Wulfe”) specifically designed to suit the varied demands of the Australian climate. Envirosun are proud to be 100% Australian-owned, a very big rarity in the Australian hot water market. The company strives to source firstly from the Australian manufacturing market, where possible (and when Australian markets offer the most energy-efficient and highest-quality products). The product goal is to provide the longest life expectancy, maintaining the highest efficiency for solar hot water systems.

About Energie Group: Envirosun’s Parent Company

The Energie Group owns both the Envirosun and Enviroheat brands. The company has been operating in the Australian solar hot water business since the early 90s. The founders spent this time understanding what worked, what didn’t, what lasted, and what wouldn’t last the test of time when it came to solar hot water. After forming an alliance (CapAus) with Europe’s leading solar company, Energie group designed a new range of solar hot water systems best suited to Australia’s environmental conditions. The product offerings then expanded beyond Envirosun’s range, and Energie Group entered international markets. The Enviroheat brand began at the end of 2019 with a range of heat pump water heaters for worldwide households. Energie Group remains a 100% Australian family-owned company with limited shareholders working within the hot water industry for decades, something the company is proud of.

Envirosun Review: FAQs

Where can I get Envirosun products?

There are a few different options to get your Envirosun products. The most important thing is to not just find a system online that you like but to get some solid technical advice on which product would be most suited to your needs. You don’t want to be paying for a system that won’t fit your space or that has functionalities that you simply don’t need. That’s why liaising with a professional brand advisor, like Compare Hot Water, is beneficial in your decision-making and purchasing process. Compare Hot Water also provides advice on the best installers in your area who work with Envirosun products and will schedule an installation for you.

How much is the Envirosun TS Plus Solar Hot Water Heater?

The cost of an Envirosun TS Plus Solar system will depend on where you’re sourcing the system from, as well as the year of the model. Some older models (2018) retail for close to $3,000 AUD, whereas newer models have price tags upward of $4,000 AUD. It’s recommended to go with the most updated version of the solar hot water systems, as these newer models have the latest technology and most durable materials used in their development. You can get a fixed price quote on the system that you’re interested in from Compare Hot Water.

Where are the Envirosun solar hot water systems made?

All Envirosun hot water systems are assembled in Australia. While certain parts are manufactured globally, most often in Europe, they are completed on home soil in Australia. For example, the best-selling Envirosun TS Plus solar hot water system is made from steel sourced from Holland but assembled in Australia. 

What makes the Envirosun TS Plus system so good?

The sought-after Envirosun TS Plus solar hot water system is acclaimed as one of the most durable and high-quality solar radiation systems on the market. The 444 stainless steel tank and corrosion-resistant materials add to its long lifespan, and the 10-year tank and 7-year panel warranty provide consumers with peace of mind. The Thermosyphon mechanism of the Envirosun TS Plus system results in more energy savings and very little need for maintenance, which is convenient for homeowners who aren’t looking to spend much time and energy managing their water heater. More information about the TS Plus solar hot water system is detailed above in our complete Envirosun solar water heaters review.

Can I install the Envirosun solar panels myself?

No, it is not advisable to do self-installation when it comes to any of the Envirosun product ranges. Whether you want to install heat pump products, solar panels, storage tanks, or any other part of the solar hot water systems, it’s essential that you go with a professional installer. This ensures that your system is working correctly, it is safe, and you stay in compliance with the warranty conditions. Compare Hot Water can link you with a professional and certified local installer for your Envirosun solar panels (and additional systems).

Do the Envirosun solar hot water systems work during winter?

Yes, the solar hot water heater will work even in cooler periods of the year, like late Autumn and winter. This is due to the insulated storage tank and radiator fluid technology that Envirosun’s products use. Even in freezing temperatures, you can have access to hot water if the weather is clear. If your climate is harsher, with less sunlight for longer periods, you might want to consider installing a heat pump to complement your system to ensure more round-the-lock access. Additionally, all of the Enviorsun hot water systems can be used with a traditional electric hot water system as a backup source of energy.