Solar water heating systems use heat from the sun to work alongside
your exsisting water heater. The technology is well developed with a large choice of equipment to suit many applications.
The Benefits
Can provide nearly all of your hot water
during the summer and account for about 50% year round.
Reduces your carbon
footprint - by approx 400 kg per year for the average domestic system dependent on the fuel being replaced.
Different types of system
Different factors including the area of south facing roof, the existing water heating system (some boilers aren't
suitable) and your budget are going to effect your needs
A competent professional engineer
should assess your property and discuss the best configuration for your needs.
Solar water heating applications.
Solar water heating can be used in the home for domestic
hot water and even for larger applications like swimming pools. There are 3 main components: solar panels,
a heat transfer system, and a hot water cylinder.
Solar panels - are fitted to your roof. They collect heat
from the sun. The heat is used to warm a
water filled coil in the collector .The hot water collected heats a cylinder that stores the hot water ready
for (DHW) use.
What types of property are suitable ?
Almost all however Ideally a property will require will 2-4m2
of southeast to southwest facing roof receiving direct sunlight for the majority of the day.
Cost and maintenance
The typical installation cost for a domestic flat plate collector
system is £2,000 - £3,000. Evacuated tube systems will cost £3,500 - £4,500.
Solar hot water systems normally come with a manufacturers 10-year warranty and require little maintenance.
A yearly check by the householder and a service check by a professional installer every 3-5 years should be sufficient.
