|
Benefits
Can provide almost all of your hot water during
the summer months and about 50% year round, and it reduces your
impact on the environment.
The average domestic system reduces carbon dioxide emissions
by around 400kg per year, depending on the fuel replaced.
Different types of system
What best suits your needs depends on a range of factors, including
the area of south facing roof, the existing water heating system
(e.g. some combi boilers aren't suitable) and your budget.
A competent professional installer
should assess your situation and discuss with you the best configuration
to meet your needs.
Solar water heating
and your home
Solar water heating can be
used in the home or for larger applications, such as swimming
pools. For domestic hot water there are three main
components: solar panels, a heat transfer system, and a hot water
cylinder. Solar panels - or collectors - are fitted to your
roof.
They collect heat from the sun's radiation. The heat transfer
system uses the collected heat to heat water. A hot water cylinder
stores the hot water
that is heated during the day and supplies it for use later.
Is my property suitable?
Preferably you will need 2-4m2 of southeast to southwest
facing roof receiving direct sunlight for the main part of the day.
You'll also need space
to locate an additional water cylinder if required.
Cost and maintenance
The typical installation cost for a domestic flat
plate collector system is £2,000 - £3,000. Evacuated tube systems
will cost £3,500 - £4,500.
Solar hot water systems generally
come with a 10-year warranty and require very little maintenance.
A yearly check by the householder and a more
detailed check by a professional installer every 3-5 years should
be sufficient (consult your system supplier for exact maintenance
requirements).
Source of information is: The Energy Saving Trust
January 2007.
Save even more; use an impartial online price
comparison tool. The results are displayed in a table to
make comparisons easy.
Switching data is updated regularly and can give you a comprehensive
guide to the suppliers prices for your area.
You the Consumer has the power to choose on a variety of utilities
and financial products. See our site
map for
more options.
|