Renewables:  Solar water heating systems

Renewable energy systems are ‘green’ technologies using resources such as the sun, air, wind, geothermal (ground source) and biofuels. We can install solar water heating systems (also called solar thermal) which use the sun’s energy to heat domestic hot water.

Benefits of solar water heating

• Reduced costs for heating hot water all year round – possible reduction could be about one-third;
• Can provide 40-60% of the hot water requirement throughout the year;
• Low maintenance costs;
• Smaller carbon footprint by reducing carbon dioxide emissions;
• Can be combined with other renewable technologies such as air source heating.

How does solar water heating work?

The system requires three components: solar collectors (tubes or panels as shown), pump and controller, and the hot water cylinder. The hot water is stored in a cylinder, backed up by a boiler or immersion heater to heat the water when solar energy is limited or to raise the water temperature if required, such as during the winter months.

Costs and payback

Costs for a typical solar water heating system range from £3,000 to £5,000 with a payback period of 7-15 years. Grants or other financial incentives may be available, such as the Renewable Heat Incentive.

NB Solar water heating is different to the photovoltaic (PV) solar panels used for generating electricity.

Further information about solar water heating

And finally, don’t forget other energy-saving methods such as loft and cavity wall insulation!