Solar Water Heaters
What are solar water heaters?
Solar water heaters, or solar thermal systems , are the process through which we take natural sun light and use it to heat water in our homes, thus saving money on energy bills. This remarkable process is achieved by installing a number of components in the home, including solar roof panels, hot water cylinders and pumps.
Do they cost anything to run?
Yes, but only very small amounts of electricity - just enough to run a typical domestic central heating pump and the electronic control unit (about 40 – 60 watts depending on the speed set on the pump and control unit). This is one of the misconceptions of renewable energy and many fall foul of not being completely accurate. You can buy systems that use a photovoltaic cells to generate electricity to run the pump and control unit but its not really practical. For the energy they produce, photovoltaic cells (solar panels) are extremely expensive.
Easy to install?
Yes, the solar water heater installation process is relatively straight forward and can be easily carried out by a competent plumber. Regardless, all of our domestic solar panel systems come complete with a full set of practical step-by-step instructions.
How effective are they?
The productivity and efficiency of your solar water heaters will depend on the amount of light they receive. It's therefore important to install your solar roof panels in an area where they are not shaded directly by trees or other obstructions. Please refer to the Positioning section for further details.
Under optimum conditions, your solar water heaters can provide up to 70 percent of your hot water requirements.
I shouldn't get rid of my boiler just yet then?
No. Solar water heaters are not designed to replace standard heating installations, but rather to assist them. As the less sunny months approach, it's a good idea to keep your old boiler system on standby to make up for the loss in solar energy.
How much can I expect to save on my bills?
It is estimated that you can save up to 70% on your bills as a result of solar technology. Thermal systems are particularly useful - heating water is responsible for approximately 25% of the energy output in an average family home. As winter approaches, your fuel bills may begin to rise - invest in one of our domestic solar panel system today and make huge savings.
Will my solar water heaters work throughout the winter months?
Although the sun is obviously not as strong in the winter months as it is in summer, your solar thermal system will still be effective. Specifically, our evacuated tube system not only gives a more balanced sun exposure than flat panel collectors, but works even on overcast and cloudy days. Finally, a reason to be grateful for the British weather!
Do they produce any emissions?
No. Solar water heaters produce no emissions whatsoever, apart from the small amount of electricity needed to operate them, and should be left running at all times in order to gain maximum efficiency.
How much will a solar water heaters installation reduce my carbon footprint?
It is estimated that an efficiently running solar thermal system will save a single ton of CO2 emissions per year. This is a significant portion of the average person's annual carbon footprint.
Please click next for information on the solar packages sold by Eco Trading, and remember - you can gain access by registering and signing up to the Eco Beans Loyalty Scheme.