Solar Thermal Rhayader Renewables Ltd supplys and installs solar water heating systems. Solar hot water systems are designed to assist homes with their supply of hot water, whilst saving money and reducing their carbon footprint.
Using free heat from the sun, a solar water heating system works alongside conventional water heaters to provide domestic hot water. The solar thermal system warms the water in a hot water cylinder and a conventional boiler or immersion heater is then used to further heat the water, or supply hot water when solar energy is unavailable.
Solar thermal technology has now been safely used for over 30 years and is one of the most reliable and proven renewable energy systems available. The technology is well developed with a large choice of equipment to suit all situations.
The benefits of solar hot water Year round hot water. Solar water heating can provide up to 60% of your hot water. Though it may need a little help from a boiler or immersion heater during winter months. Reduced hot water bills. Solar hot water reduces your heating bills by between �50 and �85 per year. A smaller carbon footprint. Solar water heating is a clean and green renewable energy system. It reduces your carbon emissions by up to 580kg per year (depending on fuel replaced). A wide choice. There are a number of well developed systems available to suit your individual needs and situation. A quick and fuss free installation. Solar thermal systems can be installed quickly with the minimum amount of disruption to a household. The cost of a solar hot water system The cost of a solar hot water system varies according to the size and efficiency of the house itself.
The typical cost for a high quality system is between �3,000 to �5,000. This includes installation and a new hot water cylinder.
We are also able to supply self installation kits for those on a limited budget.
Your savings If you use lots of hot water a system lasts 25 years with payback occurring around 12 to 15 years from installation. However, if the cost of energy continues to rise as predicted, the time till payback will reduce significantly.
A solar water heating system can provide around one third of your hot water needs. In an average house this reduces water heating bills by between �50 and �85 per year. It also saves you up to 580kg of CO2 emissions, depending on the type of fuel being replaced. Ongoing maintenance costs are also very low. Many solar hot water systems are covered by a warranty and need very little maintenance during their life span. However, to ensure their peak performance you should inspect your panels every year. An accredited installer should check them more thoroughly every 2 to 5 years (or as recommended by your installer)
Fuel Displaced Annual Savings Annual CO2 Saving Gas �50 260kg Electricity �85 580kg Oil �50 320kg Solid �65 530kg
Savings are based on the hot water heating requirements of a 3 bed semi-detached home with a 3.5m squared panel. (Source: The Energy Saving Trust)
Your next steps Check if you have a south facing roof. Confirm you have a hot water cylinder in your home. (or the room for the installation of one) Contact your planning authority to check you are covered under permitted development and do not require planning permission (for most people this is the case). Solar Thermal Systems FAQs
Do Solar Thermal Systems work on cloudy days? Yes! Solar heating systems work on overcast days. The sun still emits radiation, even when there is no direct sunlight and it is this radiation that is used to heat up the water.
How much do solar thermal systems cost? The rough cost of a domestic solar thermal installation will be between �3000 and �5000. However, this will vary from home to home, depending on a number of factors. It is possible to obtain solar panel grants through a number of schemes, including the Low Carbon
Buildings programme. Our advisors are knowledgeable on all the current grants available and will be able to assist you in obtaining any funding assistance for which you may be eligible.
How do Solar Thermal Systems Work? Solar panels or collectors are placed on the roof of a house. These panels collect the energy from the sun, using it to heat a fluid. This fluid is then circulated and the heat is transferred into your hot water cylinders.
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