Solar Thermal Systems
What are they?
Solar thermal technology transforms direct solar radiation into useable heat using a solar collector in the form of a flat plate system or an evacuated tube system. The heat is then used to heat the water systems in your home.
The solar thermal systems can be installed onto your roof or the tube systems can be installed onto roofs or exterior walls and plumbed into the water heating systems of your house. They can also provide support for standard or under floor heating.
What’s the benefit?
Solar thermal systems can provide up to 70% of a household’s annual hot water requirements. Burning fossil fuels produces a vast amount of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
- With one of our recommended solar thermal systems, the average house will generate approximately 2,250 kWh/year, with zero carbon emissions.
- To produce the same amount of energy from electricity would produce approx 1035 kg Co2, and to produce the same amount by gas would produce approx 426 kg of Co2.
Modern technologies allow solar panels to make the best use of the British climate, even in cloudy or broken sunshine. Your house value is likely to increase, possibly covering the costs, if not more. A recent survey by MORI found people are willing to pay up to £10,000 more for a home built to high environmental standards.
How can Footprint Building help?
We sell solar thermal systems from our showroom. We can recommend, supply and install them as required.
One of our competent accredited installers will be able to assess your situation and discuss with you the best configuration to meet your needs.
Answers to frequently asked questions:
1. Are they suitable for my home?
Solar water heating can be used in the home for hot water, including bath and shower usage, under floor heating, radiators, washing machines, dishwashers and it can even be used to maintain the temperature of a swimming pool.
Choosing a system suitable to your needs requires consideration of a range of factors, including the area of south facing roof, the existing water heating system (e.g. some combi boilers aren't suitable). You may need space to locate an additional water cylinder if required and you will have to think about your budget.
Other considerations:
- Have you installed insulation measures? Wall, floor and loft insulation will retain the heat and therefore lower your heat demand and make the system more effective. (see our section on Insulation for more information.)
- There are two types of kit available for Solar Thermal panels one is installed in roof so looks like a skylight window.
The other is an ‘on-roof’ kit so the panel sits on top of the roof.
2. Do I need planning permission?
In England, changes to permitted development rights for microgeneration technologies introduced on 6th April 2008 have lifted the requirements for planning permission for most solar water heating installations. Roof mounted and stand-alone systems can now be installed in most dwellings, as long as the system is less than 200mm in height then it will not need planning permission.
See planning permission for renewable energy technologies for more information.
Exceptions apply for Listed Buildings, and buildings in Conservation Areas and World Heritage Sites. Householders in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland must consult with their local authority regarding planning permission.
3. Are there any grants available?
There are grants available from the Low Carbon Buildings Programme. You will need to check the website for availability and application requirements in your area.
Further information
For more information on these products please pop into our showroom on:
42 Pembroke Rd, Clifton, Bristol, BS8 3BQ, or give us a call to discuss your individual requirements: 0117 3179571.
