Installing a solar water system for your home is a great way to reduce your annual energy bills and reduce your carbon footprint. And with the governments that now provide incentives to install renewable technologies in your home, now may be the time to think about installing one of them.
However, the initial purchase price and installation can be quite expensive, so before making a decision about installing a solar water heating system, ask yourself.
1. Is your property suitable for solar hot water?
A typical solar water system requires that a panel be attached to your roof to collect heat from the sun. In order to be the most efficient, you need an area of 3-4 m² on the southern roof that receives direct solar energy during the main part of the day. The south-east and south-west roofs are also suitable, but will not work as effectively.
In addition to the roof space, you will also need space for an additional heating cylinder, which helps heat the water as part of the system.
2. Flat platform or evacuated tubular systems?
Evacuated solar tubes are more efficient at converting sunlight to heat than flat plates. However, problems may arise during installation if they are not properly sorted.
Flat plate solar cells tend to be a cheaper alternative to evacuated tubes and are more suitable for use in domestic hot springs.
Or you can get the best of both worlds and use solar evacuated tubes and flat plates together. The flat plates first heat the water, then the evacuated tubes additionally increase the temperature before being sent to the tank.
3. Is your current boiler compatible with solar heated water?
The good news is that most conventional boilers and hot water systems are compatible with solar heating. This applies to solar hot water systems that require a hot water tank.
If you have a combined boiler that works without a tank, it is likely that it is incompatible.
If you are unsure, it is best to talk to a qualified installer who will advise you about compatibility with your current system.
4. Do you need planning permission for a solar hot water system?
In the UK, changes in the permitted rights to develop renewable technologies have simplified the installation of solar panels on homes without the need for planning permission.
However, exceptions are applied for inclusion in the list of buildings, protected areas and areas with outstanding natural beauty. As well as the size of the technology and positioning.
Regardless of where you are located, if you are considering installing solar panels, it is recommended to check with local authorities to find out if planning permission is required before proceeding to installation.
5. How to find an approved solar water heater installer?
The installation of a solar hot water system must be carried out by a competent and accredited installer. You can usually find it by referring to the recognized accreditation scheme, which will provide an updated list of approved installers.
In the UK, the main authority for accrediting installers of renewable energy technologies is the Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS).
If you decide to contact the installers directly, be sure to ask them about any industry accreditations they hold. Do not be afraid to conduct further investigations with these accredited bodies to find out more about them and whether they really recognize and accredit your installer.
By choosing an accredited installer, you have more protection than the consumer, if something goes wrong, and when you work your heating system. You may also find that you are not eligible for renewable energy subsidies if you are not using a certified installer.
