Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, installed to your roof. The collectors absorb UV from the sun and use it to heat up water that is stored in a hot water cylinder. On a correctly designed system covering on average 60% of all hot water requirements.
A boiler or immersion heater can be used as a back up for the winter months or if a short fall in heat generation is experienced.
There are two types of solar water heating panels:
• evacuated tubes – a bank of glass tubes mounted on the roof tiles
• flat plate collectors, which can be fixed on the roof tiles or integrated into the roof
Larger solar panels can also be arranged to provide some contribution to heating your home. However, the amount of heat provided is generally very small and it is not normally considered worthwhile.
Hot water throughout the year
The system works all year round, though you’ll need to heat the water further with an additional heat source during the winter months.
Reduced energy bills
Sunlight is free, so once you’ve paid for the initial installation your hot water costs will be reduced, supporting on average 60% of your hot water requirements.
Lower carbon footprint
Solar hot water is a green, renewable heating system and can reduce your carbon dioxide emissions.
Costs
The cost of installing a typical solar water heating system is £4,000 – £5,000 for a 3.1 square metre system. Savings are moderate – the system can provide most of your hot water in the summer, but much less during colder weather.
