Frequently Asked Questions
Answers about rooftop solar, subsidies, solar water heaters, heat pumps, water softeners, RO, pumps, AMC and dealership — all in one place.
General
Which areas do you serve?
We install and service across Bengaluru and nearby cities (Mysuru, Hosur, Tumakuru). For larger projects and dealer partnerships we work across Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.
Do you provide a free site visit?
Yes. Our expert visits your property, checks roof space, water quality, pressure and usage, and recommends the right system with a clear quote — at no cost.
Which brands do you deal in?
We are an authorised dealer/distributor for Kamal Solar, Racold, USHA, Grundfos and Pentair, and also supply Paive and Sharp pumps and rainwater harvesting filters.
Do you help with solar subsidy and BESCOM net metering?
Yes. We handle the PM Surya Ghar subsidy application and BESCOM net-metering paperwork end-to-end.
Do you offer AMC and after-sales service?
Yes. We offer annual maintenance contracts and on-call service for solar heaters, rooftop solar, heat pumps, softeners, RO plants and pumps.
Do you take up apartment, hotel and commercial projects?
Yes. We regularly design systems for apartments, gated communities, hotels, hostels, hospitals, schools, offices and factories.
How can I become a Talwin dealer or franchise partner?
Visit our Dealership & Franchise page and submit the application form. Our partnerships team will contact you to discuss your territory.
How quickly can you install?
Most residential installations are completed within 2–7 days of order confirmation, subject to stock and approvals. Solar net metering depends on BESCOM timelines.
Solar Rooftop Systems
How much does a solar rooftop system cost in Bangalore?
For homes, an on-grid system typically costs about ₹55,000–₹70,000 per kW before subsidy, depending on panel type, structure height and inverter brand. A 3 kW home system often costs ₹1.7–2 lakh, and after the ₹78,000 central subsidy the net cost comes down significantly. Call us for an exact quote after a free site survey.
How much subsidy can I get for rooftop solar in Karnataka?
Under PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, residential consumers get ₹30,000 per kW for the first 2 kW and ₹18,000 for the 3rd kW — a maximum of ₹78,000 for 3 kW and above. Group housing societies / RWAs can get ₹18,000 per kW for common facilities. Subsidy rules are set by MNRE and may change; we confirm the latest at the time of booking.
Can I use solar during power cuts?
On-grid systems shut down during a grid outage for safety. If you want power during cuts, choose a hybrid or off-grid system with batteries.
How much roof area do I need?
Roughly 80–100 sq ft of shadow-free roof per kW. A 3 kW system needs about 250–300 sq ft.
Is solar suitable for apartments?
Yes. Apartments can install solar for common loads such as lifts, pumps, lighting and STP — and benefit from the RWA subsidy. We also install for individual penthouses and duplexes.
How long does BESCOM net-metering approval take?
Typically 2–6 weeks depending on documentation and BESCOM sub-division workload. Talwin handles the application, feasibility and meter replacement process for you.
Can I track how much power I generate?
Yes. All our inverters come with Wi-Fi / app monitoring so you can see daily, monthly and lifetime generation on your phone.
What is the warranty for solar rooftop systems?
Solar panels carry a 25–30 year performance warranty and inverters 5–10 years, depending on the model. Structure and workmanship warranties are also provided.
Solar Water Heaters
Will a solar water heater work on cloudy days?
Yes. The insulated tank stores hot water for 24–48 hours, and the electric backup heater gives you hot water when the sun is weak.
Which capacity solar water heater do I need?
Plan for about 35–50 litres per person per day. A 100 LPD heater suits 2–3 people, 150 LPD for 3–4, 200 LPD for 4–5 and 300 LPD for 6–8 people. Use our sizing calculator below or ask our team.
Which is better for Bangalore — ETC or FPC?
If you use borewell or hard water, FPC is better because ETC tubes scale up quickly. For soft Cauvery water and budget installations, ETC works very well.
Can I install it on any roof?
Yes. We check your rooftop and install safely on flat RCC or sloped roofs, with proper structure and anchoring.
How long does a solar water heater last?
15–20 years with basic maintenance. FPC collectors typically last longer than glass tubes.
How much money will I save?
You can save 60–80% of your water heating bill. For a family of four using an electric geyser daily, that is often ₹800–₹1,500 a month.
Is it good for apartments?
Yes. We install individual systems for penthouses/villas and centralised systems with ring-main circulation for apartment blocks.
Is there a subsidy for solar water heaters?
There is currently no central capital subsidy for solar water heaters for homes, but BESCOM has historically offered a rebate on electricity bills for homes with solar water heaters. We'll guide you on current benefits.
Heat Pump Water Heaters
Does a heat pump work at night or in winter?
Yes. It uses ambient air, not sunlight, so it works 24×7 and in all seasons. Bangalore's mild climate is ideal for heat pumps.
How much electricity does a heat pump save?
It uses up to 70% less electricity than a traditional electric geyser for the same amount of hot water.
Can it be installed in an apartment?
Yes. Heat pumps are compact and can be installed on balconies, utility areas or terraces in apartments, villas and buildings with limited space.
How fast does it heat water?
Depending on capacity, a full tank heats in about 1–3 hours. Output ranges from 120 LPH to 500 LPH per unit.
How long does a heat pump last?
With proper use and annual service, 10–15 years.
Is a heat pump better than a geyser?
For families and buildings using more than 100 litres of hot water a day, yes — it pays back the higher upfront cost quickly through lower bills.
Heat pump or solar water heater — which should I choose?
If you have good roof space and sunlight, solar is cheapest to run. If you live in an apartment, need hot water at night, or have no roof access, choose a heat pump — or combine both with a hybrid system.
Rainwater Harvesting Filters
Does the rainwater filter need electricity?
No. It works purely on water flow and gravity.
How often do I need to clean the filter?
Rarely — it is self-cleaning. A quick check every 2–3 months and before the monsoon is enough.
Can it handle heavy Bangalore rain?
Yes. It filters up to 1500 litres per minute, enough for heavy monsoon downpours on roofs up to 500 m².
Is rainwater harvesting mandatory in Bangalore?
Yes, for many properties. BWSSB rules require rainwater harvesting for larger existing sites and new buildings above the notified plot size, and non-compliance can attract a penalty on the water bill. Check the latest BWSSB notification or ask us.
Will it work with borewell recharge systems?
Absolutely. It keeps silt and leaves out of recharge pits so they don't clog.
Can we drink harvested rainwater?
Rainwater is naturally soft, but for drinking it should pass through a purifier (RO/UV) after this filter. The filter makes it clean enough for storage, bathing, gardening and washing.
What is the price of a rainwater harvesting filter?
Price depends on your roof size and number of downpipes. Call or WhatsApp us for a free quote.
Pressure & Booster Pumps
Will a pressure pump work with borewell or tank water?
Yes. Our pumps work with overhead tanks, sumps, borewell and municipal supply.
Do I need a plumber to install it?
No — Talwin takes care of full installation, plumbing changes and setup.
Which pressure pump is best for a duplex or villa?
For 3–6 bathrooms, a Grundfos SCALA2 or equivalent smart booster is ideal. For larger buildings, a multistage pump with a pressure tank. We recommend after a site visit.
Will this fix weak shower pressure?
Yes. A booster pump increases flow in low-pressure bathrooms, especially on the top floor directly below the overhead tank.
Are pressure pumps noisy?
Modern pumps like SCALA2 run below 47 dB — quieter than a normal conversation.
How much electricity does a booster pump use?
Smart variable-speed pumps only run as fast as needed, so typical household consumption is low — usually a few units per week.
Centralized Water Purifiers
What is the main benefit of a centralized system?
You get clean water from every tap without multiple small filters, and all appliances and fittings are protected.
Can it work with borewell water?
Yes. It removes salts, sand, iron and chemicals from borewell, tanker or city water. We test your water first.
Will it work in an apartment?
Yes. We install systems for individual flats, whole buildings and gated communities.
Is it hard to maintain?
No. It needs periodic filter/membrane changes and sanitisation, which we cover under AMC.
How much does a centralized RO plant cost?
It depends on capacity (LPH), input water TDS and stages required. Share your water test or book a free site check for an exact quote.
How long does it last?
Well-maintained systems last 10+ years; membranes are typically replaced every 1–3 years depending on water quality.
Stainless Steel Water Dispensers
Can I choose how many taps my dispenser has?
Yes — from 1 to over 10 taps, based on your footfall and usage.
Do you offer hot and cold options?
Yes. Models are available with hot, cold, normal or any combination.
Will it work with my RO system?
Yes. Our dispensers can connect directly to RO filters or we can supply an integrated RO + cooler.
Is stainless steel safe for drinking water?
Yes. We use food-grade SS-304 and SS-316, which is hygienic, rust-free and easy to clean.
Do you help with setup and service?
Yes. We deliver, install and provide full service and AMC across Bangalore.
Water Softeners
How do I know if I have hard water?
White marks on taps, dry skin, rough hair, faded clothes and poor soap lather are common signs. We can do a quick water hardness test for you.
Is a bathroom softener different from a whole-house softener?
Yes. Bathroom softeners treat only one outlet. Whole-house softeners treat all water at the main pipe.
Do softeners need maintenance?
Very little — refill salt every few months and get an annual service. We support all service needs in Bangalore.
Can it handle borewell or tanker water?
Yes. Our softeners are designed for Bangalore's hard borewell and tanker water. For very high TDS or iron, we add pre-treatment.
Will a softener remove salt (TDS) or iron?
No — a softener removes hardness only. For high TDS use RO; for iron use an iron removal filter.
What is the cost of a water softener?
It depends on capacity, water hardness and type (bathroom vs whole-house). Contact us for a quote.
How long does a water softener last?
With proper care, 7–10 years or more.
Alkaline Water Purifiers
What's the difference between regular RO and alkaline water?
Alkaline water has a slightly higher pH (8.5–9.5) and added minerals, so it is less acidic and tastes smoother than plain RO water.
Can I add an alkaline filter to my current RO purifier?
Yes. Our alkaline filters fit most RO and UV systems.
Is it safe to drink alkaline water daily?
Mildly alkaline, mineralised water in the 8.5–9.5 range is widely consumed daily. If you have a medical condition, consult your doctor.
What's the lifespan of the alkaline filter?
Typically 6–12 months depending on usage and input water quality.
Does alkaline water taste different?
Yes — most users find it smoother and fresher than plain RO water.
Carbon Filters
Can a carbon filter remove iron from water?
No. Carbon filters remove chlorine, taste, odour and organic chemicals. For iron, use a dedicated iron removal filter or softener.
Is a carbon filter suitable for borewell water?
Yes, where odour or chemical contamination is present. For best results combine it with a sediment filter or iron filter based on water quality.
How long does a carbon filter last?
Typically 6–12 months depending on water quality, flow rate and usage.
Does a carbon filter kill bacteria or viruses?
No. Use a UV purifier or RO system along with your carbon filter for microbial safety.
Can I install a carbon filter myself?
Many cartridge models are plug-and-play. Whole-house systems need professional installation, which Talwin provides.
Dealership & Franchise
Who can apply for a Talwin dealership?
Sanitary, hardware and electrical store owners, plumbing & electrical contractors, solar installers, builders' suppliers, and entrepreneurs who want to start a solar & water solutions business.
Which states are you appointing dealers in?
Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Availability depends on existing partners in your district — apply to check.
How much investment is required?
It depends on the partnership model and territory — referral partners need no stock investment, while dealers and distributors invest in display and stock. We share a clear plan after understanding your location and goals.
Do you provide training?
Yes. Product, sales, installation and service training is provided, along with technical support for site surveys and large projects.
Will I get leads from Talwin?
Partners receive enquiries generated from their territory through our website and marketing, in addition to support for their own local promotion.
What products can I sell?
Solar water heaters, rooftop solar, heat pumps, water softeners, RO plants, carbon & alkaline filters, pressure pumps, rainwater harvesting filters and SS water dispensers.
AMC & Service
Do you service products not purchased from Talwin?
Yes. We service most major brands of solar water heaters, rooftop solar, heat pumps, softeners, RO plants and pumps.
What does an AMC include?
Scheduled preventive maintenance visits, cleaning/descaling, performance checks, priority breakdown support and discounted spares. Comprehensive plans can include specified spares.
How fast is breakdown support?
AMC customers in Bengaluru get priority scheduling — typically within 24–48 hours.
Do you offer AMC for apartments and commercial buildings?
Yes. We offer building-wide AMC covering central RO plants, softeners, pumps, solar and hot water systems.
Ready to save on power & get better water?
Book a free site visit — our expert will recommend the right system for your home or business.
