Is our area suitable for solar applications?
The UK has 60 % of the solar radiation received at the equator, and in Cornwall we regularly experience the highest annual levels of anywhere in the UK ~ 1300kw per sq.m; 70% of this in the summer months & 30% in the winter time.

Is mine a suitable property for a solar installation?
Ideally the collectors should be sited on an unshaded roof facing between south-east & south-west. They need to be inclined towards the sun at an angle of about 35 degrees but there is a considerable margin for variation around this figure. Most roof pitches are quite satisfactory.

What is the expected lifetime & reliability of a solar heating system?
A good quality, well installed system would be expected to have a working lifetime well in excess of 20 years (similar to that of the other plumbing components in your home). It is estimated that there are currently over 45,000 domestic solar heating systems successfully operating in the UK.

Is planning consent needed prior to installation?
In the cases of properties which are either Listed Buildings or in a Conservation Area it is advisable to contact your local planning department, but in most situations no such application is necessary. It is advisable to check with your local authority as there is some regional variation. Points to consider include:

• the visual impact on your property, particularly on the roof materials
• the character of your immediate surrounding area
• the visibility of the panels / collectors by anyone overlooking your property

Will 'solar' run my central heating?
In a word - no! Winter sunshine levels in the UK are insufficient to provide the large amounts of energy required. Unfortunately, it is not economically viable.

How do I locate a supplier / installer?
The Yellow Pages contains ' Heating Eqpt.-Solar' & 'Solar Energy' listings. The Solar Trade Association will supply details of its members which includes both suppliers & manufacturers.

How much energy will I save?
An up to date system will generally provide most of your hot water requirements in summer and about a third of it in the winter. It does depend on the specific circumstances of your home with regard to other heating appliances which contribute to the overall picture.

What will be the internal features of the system?
Usually the hot water cylinder will be either replaced or an additional one added. Some extra pipe work will be located in the roof-space and some items such as a pump, valves, pressure vessel and control unit will be fitted conveniently nearby, typically in an airing cupboard.

Answers to further commonly asked questions
are on the next page - just click below: