Solar Water Heating
Solar Water Heating Systems use free heat from the sun to help warm domestic hot water. A conventional boiler system or immersion heater is then used to bring the water up to usual household temperature between 55 and 60 degrees.
So what are the benefits then?
It will provide almost all of your hot water in the summer month's and about 35-45% all year round.
It will reduce your fuel bills as sunlight is free! Once you have paid for the initial installation your hot water cost's will be reduced.
Flat panels
These tend to be slightly more robust than the evacuated tube type and, as the name suggests, have a solid flat front. Some perceive these to be more aesthetically pleasing than the alternative evacuated tube type.
Evacuated tubes
These are generally thought to be more efficient than the equivalent physical sized flat panel. As such, they weigh less and can be easily installed, with some manufacturers' units being able to be constructed in situ on the roof.
Cost and savings
Costs for a typical solar water heating system range from £3,000 to £5,000.
Savings are moderate - a solar water heating system can provide about a 35 to 45% of your hot water needs, reducing your water heating bill by between £50 and £85 per year. It will also save up to 580kg of CO2 emissions, depending on what fuel you will be replacing.
Maintenance costs are very low. Most solar water heating systems come with a 5-10 year warranty and require little maintenance. You should take a look at your panels every year and have them checked more thoroughly by an accredited installer every 3-5 years, or as specified by your installer.
