Most Perth homeowners with solar panels are still paying for hot water at night — when electricity is most expensive. The smarter approach is to run your heat pump during the day using free solar energy. This simple strategy, known as the “timer trick”, can significantly reduce your energy bills.
What Is the Timer Trick?
The idea is straightforward: instead of letting your heat pump run whenever it wants, you set it to operate during peak solar production hours — typically between 10 AM and 3 PM.
During this window, your solar system is generating the most electricity, allowing your heat pump to heat water using free, renewable energy rather than drawing power from the grid.
How to Set Your Heat Pump Timer
Most modern heat pumps come with built-in timers or can be paired with smart controllers. Setting it up involves:
- Programming the system to run between 10 AM and 3 PM
- Ensuring your tank is large enough to store hot water for evening use
- Adjusting settings seasonally based on solar output
This approach is often referred to as solar soak, where excess solar energy is used to heat water instead of being exported to the grid.
Storing Thermal Energy Instead of Using Batteries
Home batteries can be expensive, but your hot water tank can act as a form of thermal energy storage. By heating water during the day, you effectively store energy for later use without the cost of a battery system.
This makes heat pumps an ideal partner for solar PV systems, especially in Perth where sunny days are common.
Understanding Your Self-Consumption Rate
Your self-consumption rate refers to how much of your solar energy you use directly rather than exporting it back to the grid.
By using the timer trick, you can:
- Increase your solar self-consumption
- Reduce reliance on grid electricity
- Improve overall energy efficiency
For more information on managing solar energy in Australian homes, visit the
Australian Government solar energy guide.
Make the Most of Your Solar Investment
With the right energy management strategy, your heat pump can become one of the most cost-effective appliances in your home. Running it during peak solar hours ensures you are maximising your existing system without additional investment.
If you’re looking to optimise your setup, explore our heat pump installation in Perth services and start making the most of your solar today.
In a city like Perth, where sunshine is abundant, the timer trick is one of the simplest ways to turn solar power into real savings.
