Solar water heating is a fantastic renewable technology that’ll help to reduce your bills by providing free energy.
Put simply, the panels capture the sun’s heat and use it to warm your hot water.
It sounds complicated, but it really isn’t.
- The sun’s heat is absorbed by the panels on your roof
- Water which circulates the panel system is heated
- This is then pumped through a coil to your water cylinder
- The heat transfers into the water in your cylinder.
Is solar thermal suitable for your home?
Ideally, solar systems need to face south in order to be in an optimal position. However, they’ll be very effective if they’re on southwest or southeast facing rooftops as well. Typically you’ll want one or two collectors to provide heated water for every person in your home. Also ensure they’ll be no shade covering the system at certain points in the day, or your energy generation will be limited.
How much hot water will be produced?
During the warmer months of April to September you can expect the solar system to provide you with most of your hot water needs. On top of this, there’ll be a serious contribution in the colder months too.
The Energy Saving Trust found that over the course of a year, solar thermal should provide you with 60% of the hot water you need.
The amount of hot water will depend on:
- How much hot water you actually use. Of course, the more you use, the greater the benefit of solar water will be
- How proactive you are at working with your system. Solar water doesn’t work on a timer
- How large your water cylinder is. Most cylinders will accommodate a day or so hot water
- The level of insulation you currently have. The more insulation, the more heat that’ll be retained.
With solar water heating there is a huge range in the level of performance, as identified by the Energy Saving Trust. Some systems would produce 98% whilst others just 9%. It’s important to ask all of these questions when speaking to an installer to avoid all the pitfalls.
When well installed and properly used, solar heating can be brilliant. You’ll make great savings on your bills and earn a guaranteed income for seven years with the Government’s payment incentive.
Facts & Figures You’ll Love To Share
- [tweetable alt=””]With solar PV you’ll generate free electricity whilst earning a lucrative earning with the Government’s feed-in tariff.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar thermal panels help to heat hot water and benefit from the Renewable Heat Incentive payment for seven years.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Solar panels will last for 25 years and more, providing decades of savings and earnings and helping to avoid the National Grid rates.[/tweetable]
- [tweetable alt=””]Energy prices have doubled since 2004 and solar panels offer an escape from the clutches of the UK’s large energy suppliers.[/tweetable]