Take sun-powered showers with solar water heating

This is because they can provide a maximum of around 90% of your hot water in summer and considerably less - around 25% - in winter, when it’s darker.

A large solar water heating system could also channel its energy towards heating your home - but even at full capacity, it would only make a meagre contribution of around 10% of the heating you’ll need. As a result, most of these systems are only built for supplying hot water.

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How does solar water heating work?

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While solar panels convert the energy of the sun into electricity, solar water heating systems use sunlight to directly heat hot water. They’re made up of solar collectors, which contain a mixture of water and glycol (anti-freeze). This fluid heats up in the sun, and the heat energy is then transferred to the water in your home’s hot water cylinder. 

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To use this type of renewable energy system, you’ll need a hot water cylinder with two coils - one to heat the water with solar energy, and another powered by the boiler that’ll kick in to add extra heat when needed. 

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How much can you save from solar water heating? 

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According to the Energy Saving Trust, installing solar water heating will cost around £6,000, depending on the type and size of the system you choose.

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Because the effectiveness of these systems changes throughout the seasons, savings will vary, but you could save up to £130 a year compared to a gas system, or £235 if you currently have an electric system. Solar water heating currently isn’t eligible for government grants to mitigate the upfront cost, unlike heat pumps and other at-home renewable energy systems.

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Solar water heating requires little maintenance, but there are small tasks, like checking the pressure gauge, that you’ll need to do to make sure everything is running smoothly. Some installers offer a quick annual service, but it’s most important that the system undergoes a more intensive check every five or so years to refresh the fluid inside. This will typically cost around £100.

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What you need to install solar water heating

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Solar collectors come in the form of glass tubes or flat plates, and will most likely be positioned on your rooftop. You’ll need at least five square metres of roof space on a roof that isn’t north facing, as this won’t receive enough sunlight. Otherwise, you can hang the solar collectors from a wall or set them up on the ground.

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You’ll typically need to buy a new hot water cylinder to work alongside your solar water heating system, either as a replacement or in addition to your existing cylinder, so you should consider whether you have enough space to store it. 

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Finally, you won’t generally need planning permission to install solar water heating, though exceptions may apply if you live in a listed building, a conservation area, or a national park.

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Want to harness the power of the sun in your home? Join Heatio and get ready to learn more about how we can help you reap the benefits of renewable energy.

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