With gas prices rising at record rates, now is the time to invest in renewable energy, solar is just one way to significantly reduce your energy consumption.

 

Worcester Bosch flat plate panel offers a cost efficient way of reducing your energy usage.

Viessmann offer their evacuated tube which is a high performance panel which is extremely versatile and can even be laid flat

SOLAR THERMAL

ENERGY

What systems do you use?

We offer both flat plate and evacuated tube solar collectors made by Worcester Bosch & Viessmann.

 

Do I need to replace my boiler?

No, we will replace your hot water cylinder with a high efficiency twin coil cylinder, but your boiler does not need to be changed.

 

I have a combination boilers can it be used with solar?

Yes, we can convert any combination boiler to run with solar, but you will require additional space for a hot water cylinder to store the water and additional controls.

 

Other systems don't require me to change my cylinder, why does your system?

We use an ‘indirect’ system via a internal coil inside the cylinder to separate the solar glycol fluid from your hot water, other cheaper systems pump your hot water through the solar panel ‘direct’, but there is a potential risk of legionella bacteria forming in these types of systems.

 

VAT

All professionally installed renewable technologies, including solar thermal and heat pumps, qualify for a reduced rate of VAT (5%). This reduced VAT rate applies to components and installation costs.

If the installer is VAT registered, the scheme works as follows:

· The installer purchases the equipment from the merchant who will add VAT at 15%

· The installer recovers the VAT from H.M. Customs & Excise in the normal way

· The installer charges the customer 5% on the supply and installation of the qualifying equipment

· The installer pays 5% to H.M. Customs and Excise

The net cost to the installer is nil.

 

Planning permission

From 6th April 2008 new Government legislation rules that, unless within a conservation area or on a listed building, the installation will not require planning permission and will be classed as a permitted development.

More information is available at the website for Communities and Local Government.

Website for Communities and Local Government

Building Regulations

Building Control supervision may be required for some types of roof, particularly where load-bearing capacity is in question or where considerable ageing of structure is evident.

 

So does solar heating work in the UK?

The simple answer is yes, there is more than adequate solar radiation falling on the UK per year to make a significant contribution to your DHW heating costs.

 

How much money does it save me? 

This is more difficult to answer as it depends on  your DHW usage and the times of day that you use hot water.  Typically you should expect to save between 50 & 70% on your DHW heating costs over the year, normally around 20-30% in the winter months and over 90% in the summer months.

 

Can I switch my boiler off?

No, Solar thermal heating is primarily designed to heat your hot water along side your existing boiler (or other heat source).

 

Can solar heat my house too?

Yes, solar can also be used to heat your home in conjunction with a thermal store (ideally using underfloor heating).

 

What products are available?

There are two main types of solar panels, flat plate and evacuated tubes.

 

How long should a system last?

It is expected to last 25-30 years with correct servicing.

 

What’s the difference between the two types of systems?

Flat plate systems can be mounted on top of or integrated into the roof for a more pleasing appearance they are.

Evacuated tubes can only be mounted on the roof but can also be mounted on walls and even laid flat, also they can be rotated towards the sun if your property does not face south although they are more fragile and cost more.

 

 

0870 803 1977

07956 863 513