Check your household’s hot-water use, available roof space, orientation, shading and whether the roof can support the system. Compare solar thermal and heat-pump options, including tank size, electric or gas backup, noise, installation location and likely running costs. Confirm that quotes cover plumbing, electrical work, removal of the old unit, warranties and ongoing maintenance, and use appropriately licensed tradespeople. You may also be eligible for incentives such as small-scale technology certificates, but eligibility and value depend on the system, location and current rules, so check energy.gov.au and ask the installer for written details.