Solar Beam’s expert experience puts the know-how into solar water heating

SOLAR water heaters are probably the only household appliance that will actually put money back into your pocket. This is the word from the team of Solar Beam, one of the longest operating solar water heating companies in South Africa.

“Water heating in the average home makes up about 40 to 50% of the monthly electricity bill,” elaborates the team. A 300-litre system is recommended for an average sized family home and for homes any larger, Solar Beam recommends a larger, centralised system. “Using a system any smaller than this defeats the object of the exercise, as the element will then be required to make up the extra hot water volume needed.

Fitting the right size system will also enable the homeowner to switch off the electrical supply to the geyser for up to nine months of the year here in Durban. This means free hot water for three quarters of the year and unbelievable savings.”

Throughout its 39 years in business, the company has spent countless hours doing research and development to perfect its product.

One of the major weaknesses in any form of water heating, whether electrical or solar, is the life expectancy of the cylinders. In many instances, cylinder failure is caused by outside influences, with no bearing on the manufacturing processes of the cylinders.

These outside influences include contaminated water supply, resulting in over pressurising of the cylinders.

Over the last three years, Solar Beam has been researching the right grade of stainless steel for pressurised geysers. Although numerous grades of this material are currently available, most are totally unsuitable for pressurised hot water cylinders.

Solar Beam has at last identified a new grade of stainless steel suitable for the development of long life, trouble free cylinders. “New on the market, this long lasting grade of stainless steel is an exciting development that augurs well for the future of solar water heating,” says the team.

Along with domestic solar water heating, Solar Beam specialises in a range of large industrial systems, ranging from 800 litres upwards. Numerous student accommodation blocks, retirement homes and similar large properties have benefited greatly after a Solar Beam solar water heating system was installed.

Solar Beam has been heating water for South African families and industries for almost four decades – a track record of which it is exceptionally proud. This is borne out by Solar Beam’s numerous happy clients over the years. “We ensure that we bring all our experience in southern African conditions to every home, hospital, retirement home or factory that we work with.” For more information, logon to

or contact Solar Beam at on 031 563 9585 or e-mail