Solar Thermal Panels

How do solar thermal panels work?

Solar thermal panels, also known as solar water heaters, use the sun’s energy to heat water or air. The basic principle behind solar thermal panels is relatively simple.

These panels are made up of a series of tubes, usually copper or plastic, that are mounted on a roof or other suitable location where they can receive direct sunlight. These tubes are filled with a heat transfer fluid, usually water or a mixture of water and antifreeze, that is heated by the sun’s energy as it passes through the tubes.

The heated fluid is then pumped through a heat exchanger, which transfers the heat to the water or air that is being heated. In the case of a solar water heater, the heated water is stored in a tank for use later, while in a solar air heater, the heated air is directed into the building for space heating. In some systems, the heated fluid can also be used to provide radiant floor heating.

There are two main types of solar thermal panels: flat plate collectors and evacuated tube collectors. Flat plate collectors are made up of a flat, rectangular panel with a series of tubes or pipes running through it. Evacuated tube collectors, on the other hand, consist of a series of cylindrical tubes, each with its own absorber plate, which is surrounded by a vacuum layer to prevent heat loss.

Solar thermal panels installation

The process of professional solar thermal panel installation on a home or business typically involves the following steps:

• Initial consultation: The first step is to schedule an initial consultation with a professional solar panel installer. During this consultation, our installer will assess your property and energy needs and provide you with information on the different types of solar thermal panels, their costs, and their efficiency.
• Site assessment: After the initial consultation, we will conduct a site assessment to determine the best location for the solar thermal panels. The assessment will take into account factors such as the angle and orientation of the roof or other mounting surfaces, shading, and structural considerations.
• Design and proposal: Based on the site assessment, the installer will design a solar thermal panel system that meets your energy needs and provides maximum efficiency. They will then provide you with a detailed proposal that includes the system design, cost estimate, and financing options.
• Permitting and financing: Before installation can begin, the installer will help you obtain any necessary permits and approvals from your local government. They will also work with you to secure financing for the system if needed.
• Installation: Once all permits and financing are in place, the installation process can begin. This involves mounting the solar thermal panels on the roof or other surfaces, connecting the panels to the heat transfer fluid system, and installing any necessary plumbing or electrical components.
• Testing and commissioning: After installation is complete, the installer will test the system to ensure that it is functioning properly and efficiently. This may involve adjustments to the system or to optimise performance.
• Maintenance and monitoring: Finally, the installer will provide you with information on how to maintain and monitor your solar thermal panel system to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This may include regular cleaning, monitoring of fluid levels, and periodic system checks.

Why have solar thermal panels installed in my home or business?

Investing in solar thermal panels for your home or business can provide numerous long-term benefits.

Firstly, it can significantly reduce your energy bills, as solar thermal panels use the sun’s energy to heat water or air, rather than relying on non-renewable energy sources. This means that you can save a significant amount of money on your energy bills each year, which can add up to substantial savings over time.

Secondly, solar thermal panels can add value to your property. A property with a solar thermal panel system is considered more attractive to potential buyers, and it may increase the resale value of your home or business. This is because the system provides a sustainable energy source that can help reduce carbon emissions and protect the environment, and is becoming increasingly important to buyers and investors.

Thirdly, solar thermal panels require minimal maintenance and have a long lifespan. With proper care and maintenance, solar thermal panels can last for up to 25 years or more. This means that once installed, they provide a reliable and sustainable energy source for many years without the need for regular replacement or costly repairs.

Finally, investing in solar thermal panels can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to the fight against climate change. Solar thermal panels use a renewable energy source that does not produce harmful greenhouse gas emissions, making them an environmentally friendly option for heating water or air.