Solar Thermal FAQ
Do we get enough sun in the UK?
The sun is amazingly powerful – even in Wales! The tiny fraction of the sun’s energy that actively reaches earth is enough to meet our energy needs many times over. In fact, every minute, enough energy arrives at earth to meet our energy demands for a whole year – if only we could harness it properly.
Our customers are always surprised at how much water our solar installations provide. Reliable studies have shown that systems installed in the UK can provide an average of about 70% of the hot water requirements over the year. Systems work surprisingly well in the winter (16-18% of hot water needs being met in December and January) and almost 100% of hot water needs being met in July and August.
You know the weather we get here in Wales. What if the sun refuses to shine?
Even when sunlight is diffused through cloud, you’d be surprised at the amount of heat that the solar panels can still collect. And nothing is wasted – all the heat collected is used to pre-heat the cold water entering from the mains. So even in winter you won’t be heating your water from scratch; your panels will work hard all year round to save you money.
How does it work?
Firstly, a solar collector (more commonly known as a solar panel) on the roof of your home traps the heat from the sun. The panel is filled with a non-toxic, special liquid that circulates within the panel and transfers heat to the hot water cylinder within your home. The temperature of the liquid is constantly monitored by an electronic controller. Whenever the collectors are hotter than the cylinder, the circulating pump is switched on to transfer the heat to the cylinder.
How many solar thermal panels will I need?
As a rough guide, one square meter of panel is needed per person in the household. Panels come in three different sizes so we would conduct a survey of your home to recommend the best configuration. As a rule, for an average four-person home, we would expect to install two solar panels covering an area of four square meters.
Does it make financial sense?
Solar hot water does make financial sense. As oil, gas and electricity prices rise; payback period for solar thermal systems is reduced. So it will pay for itself; rather than going up in smoke. And it’s good for the environment too!
Solar thermal systems increase the energy rating of your house so will add value to your property.
How long will the panels last?
The expected lifespan of the solar water system is in excess of 25 years. The panels come with a 10-year guarantee. They are made by Filsol who have been manufacturing their unique flat plate collectors in their South Wales factory for over 27 years. Their panels are widely regarded as one of the most effective, reliable and long-lasting solar panels available.
Once installed, your panels will need minimum maintenance – the non-toxic liquid within the panels needs changing ever 8 years.
Will solar panels affect the appearance of my property?
The solar panels that we use are visually discreet and they blend in well with roof. It is our experience that most people don’t notice them.
How do I choose the right person for the job?
We at Pembsolar pride ourselves on being affordable, professional and reliable. But don’t just take our word for it! All of our customers are keen to recommend our services to others. If you’d like us to put you in touch with an existing customer, we would be happy to do so.
