Solar Water Heating - Is It Right for Your Home?

By Steve Fairless

We are more environmentally aware nowadays than ever before, with the threat of global warming looming over us on a daily basis. Most of us have made lifestyle changes to do what we can for the planet, from recycling to simply being more aware of how much energy we use. But going one step further and installing a renewable energy system in your home could do even more for the future of our planet. Solar heating systems are a great place to start if you are considering the switch to sustainable energy.
How do Solar Hot Water Systems Work?
Solar panels will usually be installed on your roof to pick up the maximum amount of heat from the sun. This is used to heat water, which is then stored in a cylinder in your home. Most people add an immersion heater or boiler to bring the water to the correct temperature. You'll find that solar water heating panels fall into two main types:

• 'Flat plate collectors' - these are usually affixed to the roof
• 'Evacuated tubes'

Bear in mind that for solar panels to be affixed to your roof, you'll need to make sure that there is at least five square metres of available roof space that receives direct sunlight throughout most of the day. Whilst the weather in the UK can be unpredictable at the best of times, solar panels continue to receive energy from the sun even on cloudy days, albeit in smaller quantities.
Is it Right for your Home?
In order to decide if a solar water heating system is the right choice for your home, there are a few things you need to consider. The available roof space for solar panels is vitally important, but these factors carry as much weight:

• Is your boiler compatible with a solar heating system? Unfortunately, combi boilers that don't have a separate hot water tank are not usually compatible with solar water heaters, although most other boilers are fine. The company you choose for your installation will be able to advise you on the correct setup to meet your needs.


• How much space do you have for another hot water cylinder? Most homes will either need to have their existing cylinders replaced or add an additional cylinder which features a solar heating coil for the new heating system.

Conclusion
Solar water heating is an excellent sustainable choice to heat your home and will save you money in the long run on your energy bills. Whether or not it is right for your home is a complicated question, and one that is best answered by a professional renewable energy installation company - their experienced staff can assist you in making your home more energy efficient and environmentally friendly.

In what is still considered an emerging industry, Sustainable Energy Engineering has been successfully installing solar panels in homes and businesses since 2006. During this time, Steve Fairless, the owner of this family business has expanded and they have become the principle supplier of solar PV and solar hot water systems in the North East of England, establishing themselves as tried and trusted renewable energy experts. Contact us on 0191 340 7001 or visit our website: http://www.susenergy.co.uk

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