Solar water heaters or heat pumps

Solar water heating uses the energy from the sun to heat water in flat, black panels or tubes located on the roof or beside the house. A building consent is needed to check that the panels meet various clauses of the building code, including weathertightness, potable water and structural safety.

Solar heating has become a popular way to reduce hot water costs, which account for around a third of total energy use and more than half the average electricity use in a house. In a well installed solar system, there could be a 70 per cent saving on total hot water heating.

Another alternative is a heat pump hot water system which also has a similar efficiency. Installation is typically easier than with solar and there are fewer issues of compliance with the building code.

How to apply

• Download the application form for solar and heat pump water heaters from our forms for building consents page or from the See Also box on this page
• Include drawings with your application showing the site plan, elevation, floor plan and so on
• Mail the completed application form and fee to us or lodge the consent application in person at one of our service centres. Visit our contact us page for address details.