Handy Mac, aka Don MacAlister, is our expert on household DIY issues

I installed a heat pump five years ago. I had it serviced annually, but lately the service cost is becoming too high. The service agent chemically cleans the inside of the machine only, and half an hour

later collects R1 300, which is what he charged me last time. I was thinking of buying the service equipment and phosphoric acid and doing the job myself (I am mechanically minded), but cannot find a dealer who sells the acid. Could you recommend a supplier? Alternatively, when this machine packs up, should I install a solar panel? Is this set-up maintenance-free? I see low-cost houses are being supplied with solar geysers so I assume they are, as many residents of low-cost houses would not have the capacity to maintain these systems. soft drinks, which shows why certain soft drinks are not good for your teeth.

I went in search of suppliers, the most common source in this country apparently being companies specialising in hydroponics.

I spoke to a helpful man at Green Thumb Hydroponics, but they are based in Joburg.

On YouTube I watched how heat pumps are cleaned. I suggest you do the same as there are many useful videos.

I am sure the phosphoric acid is just one of many cleaning agents available, so a good hardware store should be able to help you with degreasing products. Many videos show a spray-on foam being used.

As for which is better – heat pump or solar panel – the jury seems to be out, and I would welcome comments from readers about their experiences.

We certainly all need to switch to alternative energy sources when possible. The manufacturers of both products will tell you theirs is the best system. Maintenance would would be less on a panel. A heat pump is better when many people will be using hot water throughout the day. Panels are cheaper and easier to install.

A heat pump is more aesthetically pleasing to the eye as it looks more like an AC unit, whereas to get the best from solar panels they need to be on the roof with the geyser mounted above.

Costs vary depending on type, quality and capacity.

Builders are undervalued, despite spending many years honing their skills. They need many attributes to survive in the present competitive world.

Switching to alternate energy sources is becoming increasingly important.