Solar FAQ
What is a solar collector?
A solar collector is the “panel” that converts the light that penetrates its glass panes into heat.
How does a solar panel work?
The sun’s rays are absorbed through a dark coated, usually metal plate – the absorber. This heat is then used to heat the water in the solar circuit, which is then pumped to your hot water cylinder etc. Solar panels will even work on overcast days, because a large portion of solar radiation is not blocked by cloud cover.
How much hot water will I get from solar energy?
You will get approximately 70% of your domestic hot water and up to 30% of your heating (based on a suitably sized system) over an annual period from solar.
What is the difference between Flat plate and Vacuum tube panels?
There are both advantages and disadvantages associated with both systems.
The basic advantages of a flat plate system are:
1. It is cheaper than a vacuum system,
2. You have multiple mounting options (On roof, Integrated into roof, façade mounting and ground mounting possibilities).
3. It has a good price performance ratio.
The advantages of a vacuum tube system are:
1. It achieves a high efficiency with low radiation
2. It supports space heating applications more effectively
3. It achieves high temperatures, for example steam generation or air conditioning, however this is not really an advantage in a domestic application.
The main disadvantages with Vacuum tube systems are their relatively higher cost and they cannot be used for integrated roof installations, which is a more aesthetically pleasing option.
Where do I mount my solar panels?
Panels are generally mounted on your roof, either flush with your tiles / slates (integrated), or indeed above the tiles or slates (on-roof). Larger collector systems can be ground mounted.
In what direction should my solar panels be facing?
Roughly speaking, for central European regions (latitudes of about 50°N) any collector angle between 30° and 60° in combination with an orientation between South-East and South-West will give almost optimal irradiance.
How long will my panels last for?
Solar Panels should have a lifespan of approximately 25 Years.
Do I need to use a backup heat source when I am using solar heating?
Yes, Solar panels will only give you a certain contribution towards actual space heating. The contribution given will depend on the system size and the type of water distribution system installed (low temperature underfloor or radiators). You will need another heat source e.g. wood pellet as when the solar panels cannot produce enough energy, the primary heat source will make up the shortfall.
Do I need planning permission to put solar panels on my roof?
You will need to contact your local agency / planning authority, and they will advise you as to whether you require planning permission for a solar installation or not, in your particular area.
What warranty is there on the panels?
We offer a 10 year warranty on the flat plate panels, 5 years on the Vacuum tube panels, glass breakage for all collectors excepted, battery 5 years (with yearly maintenance of the protective anodes), controllers and electrical parts 2 years. Not covered is breakage after delivery, damage due to lightening strikes, storm damage etc.
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