A solar power heating system is just one way you can harness the power of the sun in your home and is the most popular form of domestic solar power in the UK. By converting the energy of the sun into heat your solar power heating system can provide a typical home with approximately third of the required hot water over a year. That will be a massive saving on your heating bill!
The solar power heating system works by using panels of evacuated tubes or flat plate collectors which are usually positioned on the roof of the home. For maximum efficiency the panels should be on southeast to southwest facing roof and should not be overshadowed by trees or other obstructions. A typical installation in the UK would only require 4m² to 5m² of roof space so will certainly not be an eye sore. For maximum discretion, flat plate collectors for a solar power heating system can be integrated into the roof and are available in a variety of colours in order to blend in as much as possible with existing roofing.
There are three main components to a domestic solar power heating system; the solar panels, a heat transfer system and a hot water cylinder. The typical cost of a professionally installed solar power heating system would be in excess of £5000 although DIY kits are available at a lower cost. It is worth noting, however, that a certain level of skill is required.
The maintenance of a solar power heating system would typically consist of annual check by the homeowner and a more detailed check by a professional installer every 3-5 years.
Source: www.est.org.uk 2009
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