In the UK we’ll start to see plenty more solar hot water installations, joining solar PV on rooftops around the country. This is all because of the Government’s Renewable Heat Incentive, which was finally brought in this spring after 18 months of delays.
The scheme aims to reward those who invest in renewable heating, by paying a fixed income for seven years, worth over £1,000 a year in some cases.
Of course, if you’re considering an investment in solar hot water then you’ll want to know about the maintenance and upkeep. After all, you don’t want to be spending all your spare time maintaining the system.
The great news here is that for solar thermal panels, there is generally no maintenance required. That’s right, you won’t need to do a thing. That’s because the technology has been around for a few decades now and is tried and tested to give you the best service.
What is important to get the most out of your system though, is to have a regular service.
You wouldn’t expect your car to go years without a service would you? This is the same with a solar thermal system. Whilst the chances are it’ll be fine, it’s simply not worth the risk. By having a regular service carried out you’ll prolong the life expectancy and ensure it’s as efficient as possible.
We recommend that you have your solar hot water system serviced once every two years to get the most out of it.
How much will servicing cost?
There are quite a few factors that will affect how much your service is, so the price will be different for every homeowner. Of course, what will really push up the price is whether any maintenance is required.
Something that could help you save money is to bargain for a two-yearly service from the installer when you make the investment. This means you can be sure of a frequent service and you may even get a discounted rate.
What is included in a service?
With every service, the company will have a checklist to work through. It’ll all be done in a particularly order, ensuring all aspects of your solar panels are working properly and efficiently. There’ll be tests on the solar circuit, electrical tests, fixings, pipework, insulation and an examination of the controller’s parameters. The water cylinder’s positioning will also be assessed and potential leaks will be identified.
Every 12 to 15 years, the heat transfer fluid will also need changing to ensure the pH and antifreeze protection levels are correct for your system.
How long should solar panels last?
A well designed and installed solar thermal system will have a life expectancy over 25 years, which for most properties is more than sufficient. It’s rare these days for homeowners to stay in their property any longer than this. Of course, the system can last even longer than this and there’s evidence to support this claim.
Essentially, to ensure your solar system lasts a long time efficiently, you need to choose an excellent installer who is well-qualified to supply you with a first-class system.
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]