Is Solar thermal worth it?

Solar thermal can save you a lot of money on fuel bills while harnessing a renewable energy – cutting carbon emissions – but is it worth it?

Is Solar thermal worth it?

 Solar thermal is a great way to provide on average over 60% of your hot water usage over the year. In the summer this will account for almost 100% of your hot water requirements. Once installed you can benefit from free hot water throughout the year, reduced energy bills and a lower carbon footprint.

How do I know if solar thermal is right for me?

Firstly you need to make sure that you are in a position to be able to benefit from solar hot water. The best way to find out is to book a survey from an experienced solar thermal installer. Total Energy Services have been installing, servicing and repairing solar thermal systems for many years across Dorset, Somerset and Wiltshire and our expert team are always on hand to assist you with any questions you may have.

The key questions to consider are;

• Do you have a sunny place or around 5 sqm that receives direct sunlight for the main part of the day? Contrary to popular belief solar thermal panels do not have to be sited on a roof they could be fixed to a frame on a flat roof hung from a wall or mounted on the ground.
• Do you have space for a large hot water cylinder?
• The suns energy is essentially used to heat water stored in a hot water cylinder.  The larger the cylinder and more efficient the more water you can store.
• What type of boiler do you have?
• If you have a combi boiler you will then need to have a solar hot water cylinder added to your system therefore you would have to think where this could be sited.

 

Check your planning rules

In most cases Solar thermal systems will be classed as a permitted development./ However you should always check, especially if your home is listed or in a conservation area.

 

Get a quote from an experienced surveyor

Our surveyors are extremely experienced in solar thermal systems working on all types of solar hot water systems across the South West.

Our surveyor will explain exactly how solar thermal could benefit you and whether it is suitable for your home. We will provide you with a free, no obligation fixed price quotation.

How to get the most from solar hot water

If you decide to go ahead with a solar thermal system, there are a few things you can do to ensure you make the most out of it.

1. Ensure as much hot water is used from the solar supply rather than heated from the boiler. This may mean fitting a mixer shower instead of electric.
2. Remember modern solar thermal systems work efficiently even in the winter.
3. Integrate the system easily into your existing heating system.

Does solar thermal work on cloudy days?

Yes, you can still harness the suns power on cloudy days. While clouds may filter out some of the brightness the majority of sunlight will still get through.

What next?

 For a free no obligation quote for any works regarding your existing solar thermal system or a new system then please call our friendly team on 01258 472132 or fill in the enquiry form and our friendly team will get in touch.

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