Frequently asked questions
How long will it take to install a system?
A solar system will typically take 1-2 days to be installed.
What size of system will I need?
Systems are designed primarily on the number of occupants not
on the size of house. The collector area will depend on the hot
water needs of the household and type of collector chosen.
Will they generate all my hot water?
To get the best out of them, I expect to monitor the temperature of the hot water cylinder to use the heated water at the optimum time, thus allowing the system to re warm so I have hot water during the evening and through to the morning. This might mean running the washing machine to suit the heating from the panels. However, I expect to have more hot water overall from the panels than from running my boiler at set times.
Will the system work in the winter?
Although there is enough sun in the winter to preheat the water
you will require a conventional water heating system back-up
during the winter and for when demand is high.
Can I switch my boiler off during the summer?
I expect to switch my boiler off sometime in April and run all my hot water from the solar panels. This is what is reported by most users of our solar panels.
Will a system work with a combi-boiler?
Possibly, but it will affect the cost of installation.
Do I need planning permission?
Planning permission is not normally required for a system
unless you live in a listed building or your property is in a
conservation area.
Will it require regular servicing?
Most modern systems are virtually maintenance free, however,
you will be given advice on maintenance & advised on any checks
you will be required to conduct.
What guarantee will I get with my system?
Panels are covered by a 10 year warranty and all system
components are covered by a 2 year parts and labour warranty.
How long will the system last?
Modern systems are expected to last for at least 25 years.
What if I have a flat roof!
As long as there is a suitable point to mount the panels, there is standard bracketing that allows them to be mounted at teh correct angle. They need to be facing in a general southerly direction without any significant barriers between it and the the sun such as trees or other houses.
What are the benefits?
- A typical system will cut your heating bills by up to 90% in the summer and up to 30% in the winter, on average this equates to approximately 50-70% reduction in your costs.
- You can reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by anything from 400-750kg per year.
- Modern technologies allow solar panels to make the best use of the british climate, even in cloudy/broken sunshine.
- Your house value will 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.
The Proof