Is solar water heating right for your home?

Do you have a sunny place to put solar panels?

Solar Panels can be fitted to roofs or on the ground. The location must receive direct sunlight for the main part of the day.

Where do solar panels go?

Solar panels can be fitted on all types of roof, flat or pitched.
Ideally a roof will be south, south east or south west facing. You'll need around five square metres of roof space.

If trees or buildings create shadow the effectiveness of the system may be reduced. This can all be assessed at a site visit.

The panels don't have to be mounted on a roof: they can be fixed to a frame on a flat roof or even hanging on a wall.

Is your current boiler compatible with solar water heating?

Most conventional boiler and hot water cylinder systems are compatible with solar water heating. But if your boiler is a combination boiler (combi) and you don't currently have a hot water tank, a solar hot water system may not be compatible.

What new equipment do I have to buy?

You will require three main components for domestic use:

 - Solar Panels to collect heat from daylight to convert into solar fluid
 - A Pump station and pipework to circulate the solar fluid
 - A Hot water cylinder where the water is heated and stored

It may be possible to use your existing hot water tank, or fit a new one.

How long does it take to install?

This should usually take a couple of days, depending on your requirements.  Weather conditions can affect installation times, as some work takes place outside your home.

Do I need planning permission?

Under “permitted development” rules, if the panels do not protrude more than 200mm from the roof planning is not required, However some local authorities still require additional details to allow you to fit a Solar Thermal system, especially in conservation areas or on listed buildings.

Always check with your local authority about planning issues before you have a system installed. Obtaining retrospective planning permission can be difficult and costly.

How long do the systems last?

Solar Thermal Systems will typically last 10 – 25 years or even longer, depending on manufacturer.

Is the system guaranteed?

All our products come with manufacturer guarantees;
3 years parts and labour
10 years manufacturers guarantee

Are there any maintenance or servicing requirements?

A monthly visual check is advisable ensuring that the panels are kept relatively clean and that shade from trees or other obstructions has not become a problem.
It is also advised that the integrity of the glycol within the system be checked and tested every 2-3 years.  More details can be provided on request.

Is the work checked/tested?

Your system will be fully tested before we leave your property.

What is the cost of installing a typical Solar Thermal system?
Prices for Solar Hot Water Systems vary depending on size to be installed, product manufacturer and the type of building on which a system is mounted.
The size of the system is dictated by the hot water usage and storage capacity.
Most domestic systems usually include 2 – 3 solar panels with a 200-300 litre domestic hot water cylinder.

For a system of this size, it would typically cost between £3,500 – £6,000.

How do I use the system most efficiently?

To obtain maximum benefit from a Solar Thermal system, continue to use your domestic hot water as normal.

During the months of the year when additional heating is necessary, you should set your existing heating to come on towards the end of the day. This will allow the Solar Thermal system to put as much heat into the domestic hot water cylinder as possible.

What should I do if I have any further questions?

Please feel free to contact us at any time to discuss any concerns. We are always happy to deal with any enquiry and most questions can be dealt with quickly for you by our specialist Solar Thermal team. 0845 643 2528