Data Sheet:
Solar Thermal Data Sheet
- Information suitable for:
- New build
- Retrofit
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Technical information
Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, fitted to your roof. These collect heat from the sun and use it to heat up water which is stored in a hot water cylinder. A boiler or immersion heater can be used as a back up to heat the water further to reach the required temperature.
There are two types of solar water heating panels. They are evacuated tubes and flat plate collectors, which can be fixed on the roof tiles or integrated into the roof.
Most conventional boiler and hot water cylinder systems are compatible with solar water heating. But if your boiler is a combination boiler (combi) and you do not currently have a hot water tank, you would need to install a twin coil cylinder.
Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, fitted to your roof. These collect heat from the sun and use it to heat up water which is stored in a hot water cylinder. A boiler or immersion heater can be used as a back up to heat the water further to reach the required temperature.
There are two types of solar water heating panels. They are evacuated tubes and flat plate collectors, which can be fixed on the roof tiles or integrated into the roof.
Most conventional boiler and hot water cylinder systems are compatible with solar water heating. But if your boiler is a combination boiler (combi) and you do not currently have a hot water tank, you would need to install a twin coil cylinder.
Hints and Tips
Be sure to use a twin coil cylinder with a Solar Thermal system.
Please speak to us about a full design for your solar and heating requirement. We use a leading renewable design consultancy.
The roof should ideally face due south at a pitched angle between 30° and 50° to give the best overall performance. Installations facing anywhere to the south of due east and due west will work, although the output will be reduced.
Ensure that the floor joists can support the additional weight of the twin coil cylinder. A 300ltr cylinder will typically weigh 400kg when full.
The UK Government’s Renewable Heat Premium Payment makes solar water heating grants available for homeowners from 1st August 2011 to 31st March 2012 (£15 million available on a first come, first serve basis - conditions apply). Planning permission has also eased for solar panels.
Make sure the solar panels are not overshadowed by a dormer or trees as this will reduce the output.