Why should I consider using solar energy?

Firstly, because by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, you can rest assured that it’s better for the environment and you will also be helping to conserve the world’s
rapidly diminishing supplies of gas and oil. Secondly,utilising solar energy for hot water will help to reduce the impact of rising oil and gas prices and means that you won’t be so reliant on these conventional fuels. Thirdly, installing a good solar system can add value to your property.

How does a solar DHW heating system work?

The principles are quite straightforward. Solar collectors absorb energy from the sun to heat a fluid that is pumped in a sealed circuit to an indirect coil in a water cylinder to heat the domestic water.

Where are the collectors fixed?

High performance solar collectors are easily sited on pitched roofs, flat roofs, or in roof. Ideally the solar panels should be oriented to face south, but they will work with a small loss of efficiency sited between 30 degrees east and 40 degrees west of south.

Do I want vacuum tube or flat plate collectors?

Vacuum tube collectors offer the highest operating
efficiency all year round and, due to their low weight and
smaller dimensions, offer easier installation and handling.
Flat plate collectors should be used when efficiency during
autumn, winter and spring is not so important and in areas
where a tough collector is preferred.

Surely there is not enough sunshine in this country to make it work?

As the panels work on diffused solar radiation as well as direct sunlight, they will even generate small amounts of
energy on partially cloudy days. This lowers the energy required from your boiler.

The DTI has calculated that there are sufficient solar radiation levels across the whole UK to provide useful energy. In areas with lower solar radiation, the number of collectors can be increased to maximise solar energy usage.

Evacuated Tube System

Flatplate System

Understanding your system Key 1 Solar collector 2 Hot water 3 Cylinder Applications 4 Bath/Shower/Tap 5 Underfloor heating/Space heating 6 Washing machine/Dishwasher 7 Swimming pool