This fact sheet answers most of the practical questions you might have about a solar installation. If you've got a different question or want to talk to an expert, please call 0845 052 2765 or send us a message.

Can solar thermal panels make hot water in winter- even in our UK climate?

Yes. Here's why.There are two different types of solar thermal collectors (panels) - flat plate and evacuated tube collectors.

Flat plate collectors use the heat of the sun to generate hot water whereas evacuated Ttbe collectors use sunlight to generate hot water. So, here in the UK evacuated tube collectors will operate effectively in colder conditions such as a bright winter's day, whereas flat plate collectors will not.

How long will solar thermal panels last?

Solar thermal panels can last several decades. There are panels that were made in the 60's that are still working!

Can I use solar panels to heat my swimming pool?

Yes. It is possible to heat your indoor or outdoor swimming pool using a solar thermal system. It can extend the swimming season considerably for unheated pools and reduce heating bills in heated swimming pools.

Do solar thermal panels have to go on the roof of my house?

Solar thermal panels generally need to be near to your hot water tank to retain maximum efficiency. However, if your hot water tank is a near a garage roof or in an outbuilding, roof panels can be mounted in the most appropriate space to it.

For swimming pools, panels can either be roof or ground mounted.

How much can a solar hot water system save me?

Savings are good and depend upon the size of your system. An average household can reduce water heating bills by between £55 and £95 per year. It can also save you up to 645kg of carbon emissions depending upon what kind of fuel it is replacing.

Public sector and commercial solar hot water systems can save you more each year.

What maintenance do they need?

Very little. We recommend you inspect the panels once a year. Every 5 years a professional solar hot water installer should check the system.

Do I need a hot water tank?

Yes. Solar hot water systems depend upon storing the hot water they create in a tank ready for later use. Most boilers are compatible with a solar thermal system but combination boilers with no hot water tank may not be suitable.

Is shading an issue?

Shading will affect the power output so you need to keep any nearby trees well pruned so that they do not shade the panels. However, shading with solar thermal is not as important as it is with solar PV.

What space do I need for a system?

The minimum space you need for a solar thermal installation is 3-4 sqm of roof space. A larger, or an extra, hot water cylinder may also be required.

Is my boiler compatible?

Most boilers are compatible with a solar thermal system but combination boilers with no hot water tank may not be suitable. Call us for advice.

Do I need planning permission?

Planning Permission is generally not required unless your property is listed, or situated in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Conservation area or World Heritage Site.

Find Out More

For any other questions about solar thermal heating, please call us on 0845 052 2765 and we'll be happy to answer your questions. Or send us a message.