Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, fitted to your roof. These collect heat from the sun and use it to warm water which is stored in a hot water cylinder. The system works all year round, though you will need to heat the water further with a boiler or immersion heater during the winter months.

Typically a solar water heating system can provide about a third of your hot water needs, it will also save up to 580kg of CO₂ emissions, depending on what fuel you will be replacing.

There are two types of solar water heating panels;  evacuated tubes and flat plate collectors.  Evacuated tubes sit on the roof tiles, flat plate collectors can be integrated into the roof.

The optimum position for a solar panel faces east to west through south and receives direct sunlight for the main part of the day. Alternatively, if you do not have a south facing roof and if you have space, a two panel east/west installation will give comparable results. The panels don't always have to be mounted on a roof, they can be fixed to a frame on flat roofs.
Costs for a typical solar water heating system range from £3,500 to £5,000.

Planning permission is not usually required unless you are in a conservation area however it is always best to consult your local planning office. if you live in a Listed Building, or a building in Conservation Area or World Heritage Site. If you live in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland you will need to consult your local authority if considering an installation.

Call us to arrange a free, no obligation survey to determine the suitability of your property for Solar Thermal 0333 700 1057