For those looking to install solar panels to heat your home’s water, there are two main options. Thermal solar panels provide free energy by using a renewable natural source – the sun. Flat plate and evacuated tubes are both excellent options and it’s up to you and your budget to decide which is best for your home.
The evacuated tubes are the most efficient and will take up less space on your roof. However, both evacuated and flat plate will generate equal levels of hot water. You could also benefit from a drainback system, which will prevent water freezing inside the solar panels.
But before you start deciding on which system would be ideal for your home, have a read through the pros and cons. You may find that a PV solar panel system would be more beneficial to you.
The benefits
• With a thermal solar system you’ll generate enough heat for a third of your needs every year
• The Energy Saving Trust say this would save you between £50 and £85 a year, depending on your existing heating system
• There are often 5-10 year warranties and very little maintenance work. Unlike a boiler which could breakdown at any minute, especially in the winter, thermal solar panels are much more reliable
• You’ll cut carbon emissions by not using your boiler or heating system as much as before.
The drawbacks
• One of the main drawbacks is that thermal panels don’t provide electricity, so you won’t benefit from the Feed-in tariff or export tariff
• You’ll still need to use your old heating system on overcast days, when the solar energy is restricted
• You need to have a roof facing south or southwest to make the most from solar panels
• As the system can be quite heavy, you need to ensure your roof is strong enough to support its weight
Essentially, you’ll want to install a thermal solar panel system to reduce your household bills. You’ll be using a renewable source to generate energy and you’ll be cutting carbon emissions in the process.
If need be, you could install both a thermal system and a solar PV system to produce electricity and heat.
If you’re interested in a solar system for your home, complete our quick quote form and we’ll provide you with free quotes from local, vetted installers.