Solar Hot Water

Solar hot water systems trap the sun's heat in panels or tubes and are used to provide a hot water supply. A solar hot water system can save 50-70% on hot water heating bills over the year. Up to 100% of hot water needs can be provided during the summer months and a significant proportion can still be provided during autumn, winter and spring. The cost effectiveness of solar hot water systems depends mainly on the cost of the fuel they are replacing. Grants of up to £400 are available to help cover the costs. Read on for more details.

Integrating solar technology

Solar hot water systems usually take 1-2 days to be professionally installed and integrated into an existing hot water system. The systems generally work alongside standard boilers. The standard boiler acts as a back up system, firing up automatically at any times when the solar system isn't providing enough heat. Usual controls are included, such as timers and temperature controls, making the system as easy to use as any other modern heating method.

In some instances solar hot water systems can also contribute to central heating. It is unadvisable to use solar hot water systems with radiators, but they can certainly be used with under floor heating systems.

With a well designed system, there should be no need to use a solid fuel boiler at all during summer months. Even during the autumn, winter and spring, the system will still make a significant contribution to hot water needs.

Cost Effectiveness

Solar hot water systems can make significant savings on hot water heating bills (50 - 70%). They will certainly save money over the long term, but upfront costs can be quite weighty. Systems cost from around £2500, but a good quality, well installed system is more likely to cost between £3500-£4500 for the average 2 or 3 bedroom property. This price includes scaffolding and all other charges.

There are a number of factors that can affect the cost effectiveness of the system. For example, these systems are most cost effective for buildings previously heating water using expensive fuels (including peak-rate electricity, oil, coal and LPG). As fossil fuel prices continue to rise, the systems are likely to become more and more cost effective Installations at bigger houses or that involve complications of some kind, may be less cost effective as they are likely to incur higher installation costs. Things which might affect this are: Access issues to the roof, loft or plumbing system. Mains pressure or "unvented" cylinder replacement Very long pipe runs or a complex building structureRequirements for contributing to an under floor heating system.

Costs can be reduced by self installing or if installing the system as a house is being built. If buying a professionally installed system, it is advisable to get three quotes, read the small print and never to sign up for anything on the spot.

Grants

Grants of up to £400 are available from the Low Carbon Buildings Programme. This can help to decrease the amount of time it takes for the solar hot water system to pay for itself in reduced electricity bills.

For more information, call 0800 915 7722 or visit www.lowcarbonbuildings.org.uk.

Useful Contacts:

Please note that this list of suppliers is not exhaustive. The companies listed are offered as a starting point for your enquiries but with no implied recommendation as to their qualities of service to the public.

Southern Solar Ltd.

0845 456 1706 www.southernsolar.co.uk

Bredondale Solar

01386 561 133 www.bredondalesolar.co.uk

Energy Engineering

01694 731648 energyengineering@btinternet.com

Green Earth Energy

01981 241399 www.greenearthenergy.co.uk

Solar Dawn

01588 680469 solardawn1@aol.com

Solar Twin Ltd

01244 403 407 www.solartwin.com