Solar Geyser Installation Guide
What to expect when installing a solar geyser. Costs, preparation, timeline, and finding qualified installers.
Installing a solar geyser is a significant home improvement that can reduce your electricity bill by 40-60%. Understanding the installation process helps you prepare properly, ask the right questions, and ensure quality workmanship.
Installation Costs
| geyser Type | install Cost | total |
|---|---|---|
| Low Pressure (100-150L) | R2,500 - R4,000 | R8,500 - R16,000 |
| Low Pressure (200L) | R3,000 - R5,000 | R13,000 - R20,000 |
| High Pressure (150L) | R3,500 - R6,000 | R16,000 - R24,000 |
| High Pressure (200L) | R4,000 - R7,000 | R19,000 - R29,000 |
geyser TypeLow Pressure (100-150L)
install CostR2,500 - R4,000
totalR8,500 - R16,000
geyser TypeLow Pressure (200L)
install CostR3,000 - R5,000
totalR13,000 - R20,000
geyser TypeHigh Pressure (150L)
install CostR3,500 - R6,000
totalR16,000 - R24,000
geyser TypeHigh Pressure (200L)
install CostR4,000 - R7,000
totalR19,000 - R29,000
What Affects Installation Cost
Factors that increase installation price:
- Roof type: Tile is easier than metal or flat concrete
- Roof height: Multi-storey homes cost more
- Plumbing distance: Further from bathroom = more pipes
- Electrical work: New circuits or DB board changes
- Old geyser removal and disposal
- Scaffolding requirements for high roofs
- Certificate of Compliance (COC) requirements
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Installation Process
| step | duration | description |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Site Assessment | 1-2 hours | Measure roof, check plumbing, plan layout |
| 2. Remove Old Geyser | 1-2 hours | Drain, disconnect, remove (if replacing) |
| 3. Install Mounting Frame | 1-2 hours | Secure frame to roof, weatherproof |
| 4. Mount Tank & Collectors | 2-3 hours | Position tank, attach tubes |
| 5. Plumbing Connection | 2-3 hours | Connect to hot water system |
| 6. Electrical Connection | 1-2 hours | Wire backup element, install timer |
| 7. Testing & Commissioning | 1 hour | Fill, test, adjust settings |
step1. Site Assessment
duration1-2 hours
descriptionMeasure roof, check plumbing, plan layout
step2. Remove Old Geyser
duration1-2 hours
descriptionDrain, disconnect, remove (if replacing)
step3. Install Mounting Frame
duration1-2 hours
descriptionSecure frame to roof, weatherproof
step4. Mount Tank & Collectors
duration2-3 hours
descriptionPosition tank, attach tubes
step5. Plumbing Connection
duration2-3 hours
descriptionConnect to hot water system
step6. Electrical Connection
duration1-2 hours
descriptionWire backup element, install timer
step7. Testing & Commissioning
duration1 hour
descriptionFill, test, adjust settings
Finding a Good Installer
What to look for:
- Registered plumber with valid license
- Experience with solar geysers specifically
- Written quote with all costs itemized
- References from recent installations
- Warranty on workmanship (minimum 1 year)
- Certificate of Compliance included
- Insurance for roof damage during installation
Price Disclaimer: Prices shown were verified on . Prices may change without notice. We earn affiliate commissions on qualifying purchases.
All prices are in South African Rand (ZAR) unless otherwise stated. Shipping costs may apply depending on your location.
Related Pages
Solar Geyser Installation Guide FAQs
Technically possible but not recommended. Solar geyser installation involves plumbing, electrical work, and working on your roof. In South Africa, a qualified plumber must sign off on the installation, and you need a COC for insurance purposes. DIY may void warranties.
A standard installation takes 4-8 hours (one day). Complex installations (difficult roof access, extensive plumbing changes, removing old geyser) may take 1-2 days. The installer should give you a timeline during the quote process.
Major retailers: Builders Warehouse, Makro, Takealot. Solar specialists: SolarShop, Sustainable.co.za, The Solar Warehouse. Always compare prices and check warranty support before buying.
For grid-tied systems, yes - you need a qualified electrician with COC (Certificate of Compliance). For simple off-grid setups, DIY is possible but not recommended. Poor installation is the #1 cause of solar system failures.
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