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Solar Thermal

Solar thermal panels use the sun’s free heat to efficiently warm domestic hot water. These solar thermal systems are designed to maximise solar thermal energy, providing an eco-friendly alternative to traditional heating methods.

In the UK, solar thermal panels are becoming increasingly popular for their ability to provide solar thermal heating, significantly reducing reliance on conventional boilers or immersion heaters. While solar thermal panels alone can maintain adequate water temperatures, an integrated heating system may be employed to improve water warmth when solar energy is unavailable.

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Solar Thermal Plumbing

The benefits of solar water heating

  • Hot water throughout the year. A solar thermal system, equipped with solar thermal panels, provides reliable hot water year-round. During the winter months you may need to supplement your energy with a boiler or immersion heater, the solar thermal panels make sure that a large portion of your hot water demand is met with solar thermal energy.
  • Reduced energy bills. By harnessing solar thermal energy, homeowners can benefit from significantly reduced energy bills. Sunlight is a free resource, so once you’ve invested in the installation of solar thermal panels in the UK, your ongoing hot water costs will decrease.
  • Lower carbon footprint. Using a solar thermal heating system is an environmentally friendly choice. Solar thermal systems contribute to a greener planet by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, making them a sustainable alternative for those looking to decrease their carbon footprint.

How do solar water heating systems work?

Solar thermal systems utilise solar thermal panels, commonly known as collectors, which are typically fitted to your roof to harness solar thermal energy. These panels collect heat from the sun to heat water, which is then stored in a hot water cylinder for domestic use. To ensure that the water reaches the desired temperature, a boiler or immersion heater can serve as a back-up heater.

There are two prominent types of solar thermal panels available in the UK:

  1. Evacuated tubes – a bank of glass tubes mounted on the roof tiles.
  2. Flat plate collectors – these can be affixed to the roof tiles or integrated into the roofing structure.

In addition to heating water, larger solar thermal systems can also contribute slightly to heating your home; however, the amount of heat provided is generally minimal and may not be deemed worthwhile for primary heating needs.