Solar thermal systems may sound similar to solar panels, but they actually work quite differently. Instead of capturing energy from the sun’s rays, they create hot water. Let’s take a deeper look at their capabilities.
Collecting Heat From The Sun
Solar thermal systems are attached to a boiler or similar system. The heat produced by the solar panel is used to heat a fluid which is pumped into a heat exchanger. This heats the water inside your boiler. When the fluid has passed through all of its heat, it’s pumped back through to be reheated and the cycle continues.
Transfer Fluid
The fluid that’s heated up and used to heat up your hot water tank is called a transfer fluid. This is made up of a mixture of water and glycol. Glycol ensures that the water won’t freeze, even in the winter. This ensures that the system won’t break or malfunction in cold conditions. The fluid is suspended in reinforced glass pipes which have a pump system to ensure the liquid circulates efficiently.
The Benefits Of Solar Thermal Systems
Solar thermal systems are simple to operate and can generate around 90% of your hot water requirements during the warmer months. Because the hot water that your solar system generates is done by using sunlight, your energy bills can see a decent reduction.
You may be wondering if these panels are effective in the UK. You’ll be pleased to know that they are. Despite being a little on the cold side sometimes, we get enough sunlight throughout the year to generate a good amount of hot water in your home. As long as you can fit enough panels in a place that gets direct sunlight, you will benefit from one of these systems.
Planning permission is not usually required before installation, as these come under the permitted development allowance. You should check this with your local planning office before carrying out work.
The Drawbacks
Because solar thermal systems can’t produce 100% of your hot water requirements, you will still need a traditional boiler to make up the difference. This means that you’ll need enough space to fit both systems in your home. Many conventional boilers are compatible with solar water heating, so they can share a tank. If you have a combi boiler, you’ll need two hot water cylinders.
For Solar Thermal Systems, Choose HPE Airflow South West
We can install solar thermal systems if you’d like to choose a renewable way to get hot water in your home. These are competitively priced and easy to fit. Get in touch with us today to arrange a quotation or enquire about any of our services.
