What is a solar thermal panel?
Solar thermal systems heat water using the sun’s energy. A solar thermal panel works by absorbing heat from the sun using panels called solar collectors.
The collectors then transfer the heated or heat transfer fluid to your hot water tank. Solar water heating can supply your home with hot water for free.
Not to be confused with Solar Panels. These panels use sunlight to produce electricity. Consequently, solar panels and solar thermals are two completely different technologies.
Solar energy offers many benefits, including savings on energy bills and a reduction in carbon footprint. It is also low-maintenance, which makes solar thermal an attractive investment.
Are our solar thermal panels suitable for your home?
A solar thermal system can be a large investment. Before you buy one, ask yourself some questions. These are the three most important points to remember:
- Are you lucky enough to have a spot with a lot of sunlight?
- Are you able to store a hot water tank?
- Are you looking for a boiler that can be used with solar water heating?
Spot the Sunlight
The sun is the primary energy source for solar thermal power generation. The best place to be is in direct sunlight for most of the day. It could be on a roof that faces south through the west. Although it is possible to place the tank in a different location, heating water efficiency will decrease.
They don’t have to be on a roof. You could also hang them from a wall or on a flat roof. As long as they get direct sunlight, there are other options.
There is enough space.
A dedicated solar cylinder is required for a solar thermal. You can either replace the existing cylinder or add a dedicated solar cylinder with a heating coil.
Boiler compatible
Most boilers can be used with solar water heating systems. However, a combination boiler that does not include a hot-water tank will make your home incompatible.
What is the cost of a Solar Thermal System?
The cost of installing a solar thermal will range from PS4,000 to 5,000, including VAT at 5% for a 3.6m 2 system. Although this seems like a large investment, it can provide hot water all year.
The government will pay you for using solar water heating systems to generate renewable energy to help cover the cost of switching to this type of energy system. This is the Domestic Renewable Heating Incentive ( RHI). It is a 7-year-long payment based on how much heat your heating system produces.
What is the Solar Thermal Hot Water Capacity?
The average UK solar thermal system covers 40%-60% of household hot water consumption throughout the year. This includes hot water for hot taps and showers. The amount of hot water produced will depend on the season.
- The solar thermal panel can provide hot water for most of the summer season.
- Your solar thermal can help reduce the energy required to heat water in the spring and fall by preheating it in the cylinder.
- Winter is more challenging for solar thermal panels as the sun is less intense and the days are shorter. Your water heating will be less efficient with solar thermal.
What happens to heated water if it’s not used immediately?
The solar thermal technology works by heating the water in separate tanks until it is needed. The regular water heating system provides additional heat via electricity or fossil fuel energy, even if more heat is required.
What is a solar thermal panel?
Solar-powered heating systems can heat your home all year. How does it work? This video shows how it heats water in your home.