Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is solar heating?
A. Solar heating (solar thermal) is a way of heating your domestic hot water (water from your taps) using the sun's energy. This energy is harnessed by solar panels.
Q. Is their enough sunshine for solar energy in the UK?
A. The simple answer is yes. The UK receives, compared to the equator, 55% of solar energy. We also use panels or evacuated tubes that are built for use in the UK.
Q. How much paid energy will I save?
A. There have been independent tests on solar panels which show approximately 1000kwh of energy as hot water per year, which saves more in paid for energy. The peak output is approximately 1.6kw. This does depend on your domestic usage, location and which solar hot water system you have installed.
Q. With solar hot water, what temperatures can we expect?
A. With solar hot water panels on a sunny day you can achieve temperatures of 85`c. Even on a cloudy day you will get hot water, thus reducing the need for your boiler.
Q. Will I get hot water in winter?
A. On sunny winter days you will still gain with solar panels but with evacuated tubes their will be greater gain as they work with light rather than heat.
Q. How much will it save me?
A. The financial savings are significant, especially considering the current cost of fossil fuels. You will save as much as 70% on the costs of heating your domestic hot water (bath, dishwasher, washing machine, showers etc).
Q. Can we use solar panels for central heating?
A. No. Solar hot water systems are for your hot water only, but the energy you use now is mostly for heating your water for bathing and washing.
Q. How long will the system last?
A. There in very little deteriation with solar panels or evacuated tubes, so you can expect them to work for about 20-30 years.
Q. Can solar panels or evacuated tubes be sited on a flat roof?
A. Yes they can, or even on a wall. They would need to be put on an A-frame to give the angle required.
Q. How long does it take to install?
A. Approx one to two days.