Solar water heating systems use heat from the sun to warm domestic hot water. A conventional boiler or immersion heater can be used to make the water hotter, or to provide hot water when solar energy is unavailable.
How do solar panels work?
Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, fitted to your roof. These collect heat from the sun and use it to heat up water which is stored in a hot water cylinder. This high level of absorption allows the temperature of the water to reach up to 90°C.
There are two types of solar thermal panels available, these are:
• Evacuated tubes
• Flat plate collectors
Both types of solar thermal systems are suitable for various types of properties.
What are the benefits of Solar Thermal?
- Government grants available
- Hot water throughout the year
- Reduce your household energy bills
- Reduce your carbon footprint
- VAT only 5%
The financial savings through using Solar Water Heating are moderate as the savings are high in summer months but lower in winter months when a backup energy system usually needs to be used.
Is solar thermal energy for me?
You need approximately 5m of space on your roof that receives the sunlight for the majority of the day (East to West, through South). Your current heating system will need to be compatible with solar heating; you will find that most are apart from some combi systems.
There will also need to be room to house either a larger, or an extra water cylinder along with your current boiler or immersion heater as a backup.
Solar thermal is suitable for most domestic and agricultural properties and someindustrial and commercial properties. If you are interested in solar thermal technologies or would like more information, please contact Green Route.