Kwikot 150L Evacuated Tube Solar Geyser System

What Is the Kwikot 150L Evacuated Tube Solar Geyser?

The Kwikot 150L Evacuated Tube Solar Geyser is a thermosiphon solar water heating system for South African residential use. It uses a 20-tube evacuated tube collector panel: each glass tube contains a vacuum-sealed inner tube coated with a selective solar absorber. The vacuum acts as near-perfect thermal insulation, preventing heat loss from cold air or wind. This makes evacuated tube technology significantly more efficient than flat panel collectors during cold weather and cloudy conditions.

System specifications: Tank capacity: 150 litres | Collector type: 20-tube evacuated tube panel | System type: Thermosiphon (no pump required) | Pressure rating: Low-pressure (gravity-fed) | Backup element: 2kW or 3kW | Recommended household size: 2 to 4 people.

Evacuated Tube vs Flat Panel: Which Is Right for You?

Flat panel collectors perform reliably under consistent, direct sunlight. Evacuated tube collectors perform better in cold mornings and partial overcast because the vacuum insulation prevents heat loss regardless of air temperature. For households in Gauteng, the Highveld, Eastern Cape, or any region that experiences cold winters, evacuated tube collectors typically produce 20–30% more hot water during winter months compared to an equivalent flat panel system.

Electricity Savings: What to Expect

A conventional 150L electric geyser running daily at average rates (approximately R3.50/kWh) accounts for R600–R1,200 per month in electricity, depending on household usage and thermostat settings. A solar geyser with an evacuated tube collector reduces dependence on the backup element by 60–80% on days with adequate sunlight. Estimated monthly saving: R400–R800 per month. At R17,990, the unit typically pays for itself within 2 to 3 years on electricity savings alone.

Load Shedding Performance

The solar collector heats water using sunlight and requires no electricity. The backup element will not function during load shedding unless you have an inverter or battery system powering the element circuit. For uninterrupted hot water supply during outages, connect the backup element to a Geyserwise MAX controller (available separately) with a solar inverter, or set the timer to charge during off-peak hours when power is available.

Supply Only — Installation Not Included

This listing is for the unit only at R17,990. For a standard rooftop installation in Johannesburg, Pretoria, or Cape Town, budget R3,500–R5,500 for labour and fittings, depending on roof type and accessibility. Installation must be performed by a PIRB-registered plumber or solar installer. Contact PowerVault ZA for referrals to vetted installers in your area: 14 Sol Street, Linbro Business Park, Sandton | +27 83 476 8779 | info@powervaultza.co.za

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does the R17,990 price include installation?
A: No. The price covers the geyser tank, evacuated tube collector panel, and mounting frame only. A standard rooftop installation in Gauteng typically costs R3,500–R5,500. Contact PowerVault ZA on +27 83 476 8779 for installer referrals.

Q: What household size is the 150L suitable for?
A: The 150L is designed for households of 2 to 4 people with average daily hot water usage. If four or more people shower consecutively in the morning, consider the 200L model.

Q: Does evacuated tube work well in South African winters?
A: Yes. The vacuum insulation in each tube prevents heat loss regardless of outside air temperature, including sub-zero frost conditions. Evacuated tube outperforms flat panel during cold mornings and overcast days, making them well suited to Gauteng and Highveld winters.

Q: Will it work during load shedding?
A: The solar collector heats water during daylight regardless of power outages. The backup electrical element will not function during load shedding unless connected to a solar inverter or battery backup.

Q: Does this qualify for a SARS tax deduction?
A: Solar water heating systems may qualify for a SARS Section 12B tax allowance. Consult a registered tax practitioner before claiming.