Solar Water
Heating System
The
solar water heating system converts energy from the sun into heated
domestic water. Water circulates through small tubes located inside the
solar panels and then into the bottom of your hot water cylinder. As
the sun warms the water it gradually rises to the top of the hot water
cylinder ready for use in the hot taps. A controller maintains the
required water temperature with the boiler backing up the system when
solar energy is not sufficient. Unfortunately the solar water heating
system is not suitable for heating radiators at night when demand is
often higher as the sun will no longer generate sufficient heat.
There
are two main solar water heating types. The 'evacuated tube' method is
favoured as it is more efficient, using smaller pipes than the 'flat
plate' system.
The
solar water heating system is not currently part of the Government's
Feed in Tariff (FIT) scheme and will therefore not receive the
guaranteed payments. It is however considerably cheaper than the
photovoltaic system. A typical solar water heating system will
cost around £4000 with grants of up to 10%
available when
installation is carried out by a MCS (Micro Generation Certification)
installer.
Savings will vary depending upon your geographic location
but you should expect to save around 85% off your Summer costs for
heating water. Winter savings will obviously be lower.
Solar Panel Installers
You should ensure any solar
panel systems installed are carried out by a company with
MCS (Micro Generation Certification). This is often a requirement to
qualify for grant and Government payments.
Free Solar Panels
Some
companies will install free solar panels in return for them renting
your roof long term so they can take advantage of the Government's Feed
in Tariff payments. They will install and maintain the panels on your
roof whilst you benefit from the free electricity generated. This is
likely to be around £250 per year or £5 per week.
In return
they will receive all the Government's FIT payments. Before signing up
to such a scheme, you should study the contract carefully and
take
legal advice if necessary. Some companies insist upon giving permission
in the event of the house being sold or compensation if the system is
not working due to roof repairs. You should also take into account that
if you move or sell, the new owner would have to take on the lease,
which might be looked upon negatively by any potential purchasers. |
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