Solar Panels - Information

Solar panels are one of the most effective renewable energy products currently available as they can provide you with between 50% and 70% of your domestic hot water.

Solar panels or collectors are the main elements of a solar system. Many people are still under the misconception that solar panels work solely from the direct heat from the sun’s rays, and therefore solar panels wouldn’t be feasible for use in the UK. However this is wrong, because solar panels actually also operate by diffusing light (as well as heat) from the sun using a special fluid (water and glycol) that is being circulated through the panel/collector. The heat gained from this fluid is then transferred to the stored water via a coil/heat exchanger within the cylinder, thus providing substantial hot water for the home.

There are two main types of solar panel used for solar water heating systems, they are flat plate and evacuated tube types. Tube type solar panels, are specially designed to give maximum absorbance and are therefore considered more efficient however, they can be more expensive to purchase and maintain. Flat plate solar panels however are still highly effective, and can be lower in cost, making them the more popular choice. They are also more flexible, and can be installed vertically or horizontally.

Solar panels can be installed on almost any roof type. E.g. Slate, Tiles etc. They can either be mounted 'on-roof', where brackets are fixed and the panels held into place, or alternatively they can be installed 'in-roof' where the panels are set into the roof covering. In-roof applications tend to be used in new build projects rather than existing buildings.

The amount of solar panels required for your property is determined by the amount of hot water that needs to be heated. We recommend that you seek further advice from your installer or manufacturer, if you are unsure about your requirements.