thermotube solar panels

Why is Thermotube superior?
Unlike loose strips, Thermotube are not gluded to the roof. No dust or moisture is trapped and no harmful environment is created since the individual tubes are held together with our unique interlocking system.

Thermotube technology provides a factory welded joint between the PVC pipes and PVC absorber. This is like welding except it is made with chemicals, heat and adhesives achieving a seamless panel.

Our unique panels have 80 tubes in every square metre which is approximately 33 % more than most other systems, (based on a 60 tube/sqm system). These tubes have an 8mm external diameter which was recommended by the CSIRO as being the most efficient size for the Australian conditions. Thermotube collector panels are designed in such a way that allows the sun to heat the absorber from the surface and the underside via reflection. This all adds up to a greater efficiency rate of around 45%.

Obviously, not all systems are the same. There are differences in efficiency, reliability and the ability to integrate with the structure and surface it is installed on without damaging it.

Our design eliminates the need for crude methods like gluing loose strips to roofs. Consequently the roof is not permanently marked and the absorber tubes are not interfered with, so they can still expand and contact freely. The fastening is reversible, if servicing of the roof is needed. If you accept a cheap strip system you have to be prepared to make massive concessions. Just read the guarantee fine print.

What are Thermotubes made of?

Thermotubes are made of super vinyl developed by SVP industries and first manufactured in 1975. This type of material is used for pool plumbing and pressure pipes in your pool and variations of it are used in house cladding and similar applicaion where durability and the ability to withstand the harsh Australian environment is the priority.

It is proven to be totally impervious to any chemicals used in water treatment. The tubing material was developed for the purpose of solar heating employing the newest technologies available in UV stabilisation. The shortcomings of a conventional strip system have become apparent. They are no longer considered at this level of engineering.