Read also:
portable air conditioner review 2015 bendigo bank centrelink processing times office works set top box difference between nan comfort and nan pro gold beko wmy7046lb2 7kg front load washing machine best salt water chlorinator reviews australia
Apricus Solar Hot Water System (page 3 of 5)
315ltr Tank, 250ltr Tank, 400ltr TankReviewer Photos & Videos
Canberra not supported
I purchased a system less than five years ago, and within just a few years it was continually blowing fuses. I got the electrician recommended by Apricus out and all he did was change the fuse. Apricus kept sending me replacement fuses and left me on my own. The recent cold weather in Canberra has now ruptured the tubes. As the fuses no longer worked, I hadn't been able to use my HWS for six months, and so they can rely on that to say they are not liable as there wasn't any water circulating through the pipes. Their warranty is poor and there i...Read more
s no local representative in Canberra. You are on your own and are meant to be an expert, otherwise they rely on their warranty to not replace the parts. I relied on the advice provided by Apricus over the phone and am now significantly out of pocket as a result. These systems do not seem to be suited to cold environments. Very disappointed after spending thousands of dollars.1 comment
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Flora LFloreat WA
- 3 reviews
- 2 likes
Faulty heating pipes should ALL be replaced!
Our system has finally been restored to what we imagined it would be like and in fact what it was like for the first little while when we had it installed in August 2015!
ALL 44 pipes were replaced (probably out of warranty but with no quibbling because they knew there was a problem) and the sensor has just been moved to the correct end of the system (fault of the original installers.....didn't allow enough wiring)
My concern is for all the other loyal customers out there who aren't aware that there was a faulty batch(s) of heat tubes manufa...Read more
ctured about 2-3 years ago - 2014 was mentioned - and who's systems aren't functioning as they ought. It bothers me that the company knows about this problem but hasn't been proactive in following up people like us who, in good faith, installed a system that was meant to save them power and money. It was only after an increasing amount of electrical boosting that we realised there was a problem. Kind of like the frog in the kettle.....you don't realise there's a problem because it's a gradual deterioration. A quick look at the graph of our power bills last week confirmed the true story! To their credit, Apricus accepted there was a problem. Unfortunately it then took weeks to finally rectify. Happy with the system and would've given it a 5***** rating if it had worked as it did in the beginning.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Thank you very much for your review on our product and providing us a platform to add comment on the importance of simple home owner maintenance procedure of their Apricus Solar Hot Water system.
Hea... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Leaking Tank
My tank started leaking from the lower senor port and a couple of weeks later started leak out of the return port. They came had a look. they thought it may be a slow leak from where the plumber connected the return to the tank. after replacing the fitting and and checking on it for a couple of weeks.so after determining it was the tank and not the fitting, they replaced the tank straight away.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello,
Thank You for your positive review.
It has been a pleasure dealing with you and appreciate the feedback you have given in regards to the warranty replacement. We wish you all the best with your system in the future.... Read more
Kind Regards, Luke McKay Customer Service manager Apricus Australia
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Find out how Apricus Solar Hot Water System compares to other Solar Water Heaters
Know better, choose better.
Good service for replacement of faulty tubes
Our system didn't seem to be performing very well, but for a long time that was perhaps all we could expect for our location in southern Tasmania. When we realised it really was well under par Apricus were very cooperative in organising for someone to look at it, then they replaced all 30 inner copper tubes. All done at no cost to us and with no further questions or quibbling. Only 3 stars because while the service was excellent the tubes should not have been faulty in the first place.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello Peter,
Thanks very much for your review.
We are sorry to hear that these copper tubes weren't performing up to the usual standard, but we are glad that now they have been replaced you should be receiving the full benefit of the system.... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Quick and prompt service
We had a minor issue with the tubing for our apricus solar hot water system. I contacted apricus to see what could be done. Within the week, i had the local plumber replace the tubing under warranty and the problem was dissolved. These guys are quick, efficient and in my POV, very customer orientated. Great going guys!
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello Tara,
Thanks so much for your five star review - I am delighted that you were happy with the speed and efficiency of our after sales service and you took the time to make this review.
We wish you all the best with your system in the future.... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Beware!
Beware of Apricus, on an average they are an ok company just like all the rest. But they have a bad reputation for not honouring their warranties, they will try every trick they can to swindle you out of your claim WHEN something goes wrong with your system. and it will happen. make sure you do your research before signing up with them.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello,
Thank You for your review - I am sorry to hear you were not happy with our After Sales service.
Our warranty schedule is very clear and if an item is in warranty then we will honour this, unles... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Rick LLancefield
- 2 reviews
- 2 likes
Solar Water Heating not without problems but great support by Apricus
My wife and I researched all Solar Hot Water systems 6 or so years ago and decided on the Apricus based on extensive research. We found that all Solar Hot Water products had mixed reviews but in the end there seemed to be a common theme with these types of systems e.g. severe frost can be an issue, and that it highly depends on the quality of the plumber that fits theses systems as well as owners having some knowledge of how to check the indicators on a semi regular basis for any issues before they become a major and expense issue ... especial...Read more
ly if it's out of warranty. At the time, overall Apricus came up the best option for us and I still stand by our decision... especially with the extremely responsive service from both Apricus and Simon from Macedon Ranges Plumbing recently. After the severe frost we had here in Lancefield, the comments I made above hold true. We had very poor experiences with our 1st attempt to get a Apricus certified plumbers ( tried two) to come out and determine the cause of the water coming out of the manifold after the frost and 3rd time lucky with Simon. Simon was awesome with his responsiveness and dealing with our stress of the situation. He assessed the situation and advised that the frost had caused the manifold to crack and that the root cause was that the previous plumber, while assessing another issue we had 12 months ago had left the plug unplugged, causing the manifold not to cope with the frost. After capping off the running water, Simon urgently took it upon himself to notify Apricus of the issue and like any Company that stands by their product, they offered to replace the manifold at their cost even though it was out side of warranty, considering the circumstances. Thanks Nick... outstanding service not being black and white on the problem considering the fact that it was out of warranty. We really appreciate it :). So from our perspective, the key to getting the most out of an investment like this is to find a great plumber that knows the system, and as an owner, learn to understand the system indicators (which we didn't) and deal with a company that is not black and white on warranty issues when the circumstances warrant it. The product is an excellent product and has saved us big $ on our electricity bill. Rick1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello Rick,
Thanks for the feedback I'm happy that you have had a good experience from my Head Office staff. The controller is definitely the brains of the system so if there is an issue with this par... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Customer Service is a waste of time !!!!!!!!!
We purchased an APRICUS Solar Hot Water System exactly 2yrs ago at a cost of over $4000. A few days ago the MANIFOLD on the roof cracked due to the frost but was caused by the CONTROLER failing ! Because the Warranty on the CONTROLER was only 1yr - APRICUS will not cover the cost of replacing EITHER ! It would therefor appear to cost MORE to maintain these units than the cost of electricity. We have been quoted a minimum of $1000 and the SAME THING COULD HAPPEN NEXT WINTER !!!!!!! It looks like we purchased a VERY EXPENSIVE HOT WATER ...Read more
UNIT as we will not pay to have the Solar componency repaired. Recommend that you DO NOT INSTALL A SOLAR HOT WATER SYSTEM as they are more trouble than they are worth. Just ask a Plumber and spread the word !!1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello Foss,
Thank You for your email and feedback.
Our systems do not require costly maintenance and an easily be monitored by the homeowner. Controllers have a green light to display they are working, or a red light to require attention. ... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
GarryCanberra
- 2 reviews
- 1 like
A problem but great recovery service
After 6 years the system sprung a leaky through a faulty manifold, probably not unexpected in the below zero Canberra winters. Obviously I was not happy but the service by Apricus in providing a replacement manifold, despite me not being able to provide the exact proof of purchase normally required, was exceptional. They very quickly assessed the problem, accepted responsibility and provided a replacement. Very happy with that outcome.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Thanks so much for your review Garry - we are pleased you have been happy with our after sales service.
Kind Regards,
Luke McKay... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Find out how Apricus Solar Hot Water System compares to other Solar Water Heaters
Know better, choose better.
CliffHervey Bay Qld.
Free from the sun???????
I was one of the very first people to purchase an Apricus hot water service in Hervey Bay back in 2009. My gripe, is that while they say "free energy from the sun;" the very truth is, that there is always a hidden cost to these systems. Nearly Two years after installation, my solar pump died, and I rang the installation electrician to get a new one. BLOODY HELL!!!!! A replacement unit cost me a total of $625. Not what I was expecting. To ad injury to insult, he didn't notify Apricus, and my claim for compensation was refused. (not my fault...Read more
). I have decreased the load on the unit by switching the pump to the lowest level, and up to now it has been operating successfully for the past few years (fingers crossed): But now the tank temperature is not going to it's max of 70C in the middle of the day,not even reaching 62C and falling off at night to as low as 30C. I assume this has some thing to do with the collector units and heat transfer unit. Now I have to find a "qualified" Apricus agent here in Hervey Bay to check out the heat exchanger unit for me. I calculated out, that if I had kept my original hot water unit, I would have been better off financially on Tarif 3 off- peak, as I am the only one in my house; so it makes you wonder about all this "green crap" and ALL THE ASSOCIATED HIDDEN COSTS including pump replacements. I woukld strongly suggest anybody needing a pump replacement ensure they get an industrial grade pump - cheaper in the long run.1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hello Cliff -
Thank You for your review and comments.
We are a company that is happy to help with any issues regarding our systems - we would definitely encourage our customers to contact us directly... Read more
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
AlanCBrisbane
Great Service
Recently I contacted Jessie West of Apricus about a hot water temperature problem. Even though most of the system is out of warranty, Jessie cheerfully put the hard yards in and came up with a solution in record time. I couldn't be more pleased and I'd certainly recommend Apricus' after sales service on the basis of this experience.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Thanks so much Alan for the great review - Jessie is a fantastic employee and we are delighted you are happy with the service provided by our after sales team.
Kind Regards,... Read more
Luke McKay Customer Service Manager | Apricus Australia Pty Ltd PO Box 8036 | Seven Hills NSW 2147 P 1300 277 428 Email: [email protected] Visit us: www.apricus.com.au www.apricusplumber.com.auSimilar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
paulq00Brisbane
- 8 reviews
Disappointed
A 30 tube system on the north end of west facing roof only gives lukewarm water, even in Brisbane.
Overly complicated system that has many, many, possible points of failure.
Plumbers avoid it like the plague because of the complexity.
If you think think this is a system that is going to save you money think again. Between needing to boost all the time & paying for service calls, it is a money pit & not a saving opportunity.
Installer(Infinity Solar) who we chose went broke. When service was required Apricus weren't willing to back up their ...Read more
4 comments
Luke M.Apricus
Hello,
Thank you for your feedback.
My name is Luke and I am the Customer Service Manager for Apricus – I have recently started with Apricus and we definitely would like to help you with this issue.... Read more
Luke M.Apricus
Hello again,
After our conversation on 10/7 I believe the parts replaced in your system has ensured the issue you were having is no longer evident. I am very happy this has led to the improvement in t... Read more
UPDATE: 3 STARS. Apricus replaced the 30 inner tubes and flow control valve under warranty, which seems to have resolved the issue. My reasoning for three stars is because Apricus were not interested... Read more
in helping me when I contacted them in 2016 about my faulty hot water system. However, Luke has been more than helpful in resolving the problem, it is a shame that I didn't receive this level of service when I initially contacted the company. Thank you so much for your assistance Luke.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
WendyCanberra
- 2 reviews
Poor Service
I purchased a new townhouse with Thermann hot water system. 13 months after completion, glass panel broke in pipe. On a Saturday morning so I did not expect service on weekend. However, on Monday, given complete run around. Insisted I provide original invoice for purchase and installation despite my not being the purchaser. Eventually the builder became involved and provided paperwork, then Apricus told me they would send an email and put a request in the system to have repair done. This was not an oven not working, this was me (in winter and i...Read more
ll) with no hot water for 3 days. Nothing is urgent to them. Eventually plumber arrived Tuesday afternoon to do repair. Builder advised he had issues with other systems in my complex, mine was not the first.2 comments
Luke M.Apricus
Thank you for your feedback, we are glad the issue is now fixed.
We received notification of your problem on Monday afternoon from the retail outlet that sold the system and we had arranged a service... Read more
You received notification from me when I rang you on Monday morning.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
A couple of issues but good service from Apricus in the end
Have had two warranty issues in two years- both have been resolved well. First was when system was new- ptr valve (pressure relief valve) on the tank constantly dripping. This was resolved (replaced) very quickly by Apricus. Second was 2 years down the track when I noticed a marked drop off in temps especially in summer. I have been a little disappointed that a 40 tube 315L system didn't perform a little better but mine is set at a 45 degree angle so better suited to winter conditions (although there is less insolation in winter in Melbourne an...Read more
yway- damn those grey days). Turns out the heat pipes were failing (these are the copper tubes inside the evacuated tubes that heat the manifold). Apricus quickly sorted the warranty although their dept is a little confused as although they no longer sell a 40 tube version, they were convinced that they were going to send 44 new heat pipes. Thought that they would just replace the entire tube but instead had to pull out and replace 40 heat pipes on the roof hence labour costs were high. To Apricus' credit they helped out here, though. System is now running a lot better (almost hotter than summer even though it is now Autumn). So to sum up- even though I have heard some bad things about Apricus customer support been very happy so far. As another user mentioned though- hope these heat pipes won't be an ongoing issue as although the warranty is 10 or 15 years this does not cover the high labour costs to replace them down the track. If system is not performing it seems that this and checking the connection to sensors on manifold would be first places to check. Vacuum in tubes can also go. One area that could be more consistent is installation. I asked the installer what the tape that was attaching the insulation on the pipes outside on the roof was and he said it was a 'uv' rated duct tape. I'm sorry but I don't see this sticky tape still being there in 15 years, let alone another 5. A good system but unfortunately payback is probably longer than the life of the system (with stainless tank) as the utilities have always got you with connection charges rather than what you actually use. Being with gas booster- summer is great use no gas but this is charged at offpeak anyway. Winter, less solar- onpeak gas prices. I guess electric boosting is a little different though.Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Very Happy, has performed flawlessly.
I have 44 Apricus Tubes connected to a 315 litre tank and have found the system to perform very well over the summer. Sunny days see the tank full of 75 degree water, which is tempered to 50 degrees at the outlet. The quantity of water we use now with a young family necessitated a larger hot water system and the Apricus system has provided this and much lower energy bills to boot.
Apricus Customer service has been exemplary, with a tube broken on delivery quickly replaced without any hassle.
Overall, can highly recommend this product and company based on my experiences.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Find out how Apricus Solar Hot Water System compares to other Solar Water Heaters
Know better, choose better.
JohnPerth
Trouble getting service initially - but eventually it was good news
Water tank sprung a leak last Monday night (10th April) and rang Apricus next day. Sent all information including proof of purchase and photos of problem to Apricus. Have contacted Apricus a number of times to discuss and the problem has still not been assessed. We have been without regular hot water for over a week. This is the second tank that has failed. The first leaked one year after installation.
I must say that after the above post that Apricus did spring into action and arranged to send a new tank and arrange for its installation. O...Read more
n the advice of the excellent recommended plumber (Ereco WA) the tank was switched from stainless steel to glass lined as the source of our tank failures was (evidently) aggressive Perth water that corrodes stainless steel. The new tank is installed and the system works very well. JohnSimilar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
EricSydney
Apricus helped while I was overseas
I was overseas and my solar panel glass tubes were broken. I called Apricus' hotline and the operator put me onto their director straight away. He then connected me to their contract plumber within a few hours and the tubes were replaced straight away, with the roof tidied up as well. All done while I was overseas.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
- 250ltr Tank
- Verified purchase
Not suitable for 1 or 2 occupt household
I have to admit that I can not complain about the hot water that is be generated from my Apricus 30 Manifold Hot Water System, majority of the time water is TOO hot. But I will go on record to say that this type Apricus Hot Water System is not energy saving or efficient.
Because I am a household with 1 occupant, I lose appropriately 12litres of water a week through the release valve pipe through constant dripping. I have passed on this concern on to the installer and after he changed the release value 3-4 weeks after installation, I was told...Read more
to take more showers each day, he says it is because I am not using enough of hot water daily. The installer has not been helpful in solving this problem or taking my concerns seriously and I would not recommend his company or him to anyone. I have given up on reporting this problem to the Installer and he has not come back to me since our last communication back in July 2016. We are all trying to economise, save money and save energy resources, this system is not doing this. It has the thumbs down from me, I would not recommend this system to anyone.1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hi, if you would like to chat about your system performance, please give us a call on 1300 277 428. We would be happy to listen to your concerns and discuss possible solutions.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Extremely disappointed and no customer service
Bought a new townhouse with Apricus solar water heating and am finding it extremely disappointing. We don't have a lot of hot water coming through in the kitchen - I fill up a bucket of cold water before any hot water appears. We now have three leaks in the pipes outside where the tank is which has damped the brick wall. I called Apricus on the 1300 number to log in an urgent call - am still waiting for a response. This 1300 number is only answered Monday to Friday - there is no other emergency number to call. I have to wait until Monday to see if I have a response and in the meantime water is still leaking down the brick wall. I would not recommend this solar water heating system to anyone.
1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hi, we're sorry to hear you're having issues with your Apricus system. Please call us on 1300 277 428 and we'll sort this out today for you.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
The Eggbowral
Extreme disappointment
Just built a new house and was recommended to go with this system buy the plumber at the time (also the apricot rep in the area I later found out). Since instal the system has always had to use electric boost even after full day of sun.
I have had a different plumber come in and assess the instal and he made some changes however the system still failed to heat water anywhere near as expected.
I have a solar inverter app that provides me with minute by minute energy use and collection through my solar panels so I can see precisely when the...Read more
apricus boost kicks in and for how long as well as all other household power usage. My 400L system sucks 6 to 12 kilowatts of power per day even when sunny. There are only 3 people in the house and we wash all clothes with cold water and the electric boost is set at the end of the day. I have contacted Apricus 3 times over the past 8 months and have no call back or help with the matter.1 comment
Luke M.Apricus
Hi, I'm sorry that you are experiencing difficulty with your system. We'd like to help, so if you give us a call at 1300277428 or send an email through to [email protected] we will be able to look into your case today.
Similar opinion? Write a review on ieatwords.com.au!
Questions & Answers
Bryceasked
Hot water in the morning. Sunny 20 degree days. Water temp only 24 degrees when I get home from work with no usage. What the ? Pump is running when temp at collector is less than temp in tank??? Please explain?
2 answers
Apricus Product SupportApricus
Hello Bryce
Please contact Apricus directly so we can assist with troubleshooting in a direct manner.
Apricus Product SupportApricus
orange10asked
After freeing some calcification from the tempering value in order to restore pressure - which was successfully completed - water now runs from the over flow (PRTV) pipe. To save water and power, I have turned off the inlet tap and electricity to the tank - meaning there is no hot water. What can I do to return the system to proper operation, please? Thanks.
2 answers
Apricus Product SupportApricus
It is normal for the ECV, or if one isn’t installed, the PTRV,to dribble water each day as the water heats up and expands. The volume water can be anywhere from a few cups to as much as 10L depending on the system pressure and temperature rise. (for 50L heated, 1L can dribble). Solar hot water system may relief more pressure as the temperature can get much hotter than an electric boosted tank. Restore to normal operation by reversing your turn off actions.
Thank you for the reply, but as I wrote, "water runs from the...pipe", so much so that there is not enough pressure building in the tank to allow forceful water from house HW taps. I had a punt and replaced the PTRV. That has worked.
Before inserting the new valve I pulled up the handle and noticed that a mechanism within the valve was shifted. Doing the same to the old valve produced no effect.
I can only assume that the old PTRV had failed, and was in a continued "open" position which allowed water to constantly run out of the tank when the inlet tap was 'on' which created pressure within the tank.
I am not a plumber, so if my thought process if wrong, please respond so I can have my thinking straightened in case this incident repeats in the future. Thank you once again. Stay safe.
John B.asked
I am in need of someone who can come and check out our Apricus elevated tube system two years old. Scotts Head NSW 2447. The system isn’t working that well. It need someone to eye ball it.
4 answers
I struggled with this throughout the time I had this system. It was always difficult to find someone willing to service it. Even the people Apricus recommended wouldn’t get back to you.
I wish you luck with it.
Thanks Phil. Not the answer I was looking for though. Cheers.
Apricus Product SupportApricus
Hi John, you can log a request online at https://apricus.com.au/request-a-service/ and we will respond to you, or contact us directly on 1300 277428. We are more than happy to assist.
Other Solar Water Heaters
Envirosun
5.0(16)Neopower Solar Hot Water
5.0(10)iStore Air to Energy
4.9(10)Thermal Ark ARK270
5.0(9)Run On Sun ROSAHP250EL
4.4(5)Other Solar Water Heaters
Envirosun
5.0(16)Neopower Solar Hot Water
5.0(10)iStore Air to Energy
4.9(10)Thermal Ark ARK270
5.0(9)
Related Articles
The best kitchen appliances in 2020!
Whether you love or loath being in the kitchen, our community of reviewers have determined that out of almost 5,000 appliances on ieatwords.com.au, these are the best available!
Nathan S.1 May 2022Best Fridges and Dishwashers in 2020!
These large kitchen appliances are the backbone of your kitchen, meant to last you many years. The initial cost of a fridge or dishwasher is high, so to make sure you're not buying a lemon, here are the best fridges and best dishwashers of 2020. Our reviewers have provided detailed ratings for important factors to consider when choosing a refrigerator or dishwasher, such as Noise Level and Internal Layout.
Wendy Z.12 May 2022
Listing monitored by Apricus representatives.
ieatwords.com.au has affiliate partnerships. These do not influence our content moderation policies in any way, though ieatwords.com.au may earn commissions for products/services purchased via affiliate links.
Luke M.Apricus
Hello and Thank You for your feedback.
consumer it would be recommended to look into replacing the part and not rely on a Band-Aid option to avoid issues down the track, regardless of any other assistance we may have tried to provide. We do not employ our own agents across Australia but we do have recommended people in most areas including Canberra where we have a lot of happy customers. Our systems are well suited to cold environments, provided they are maintained to our requirements outlined in the warranty schedule. The controller is one of the most important parts and needs to be operational at all times to avoid other components failing.I spoke to you on Monday and as mentioned unfortunately the controller was well out of warranty when you first contacted us a year or so ago. At this point as a ... Read more