Our need for energy is increasing progressively with our standard of living. Are solar water heating panels the solution? Our natural resources are depleting and we are putting a strain on the environment. The sun is the energy of the future - assuring life on earth for the future. Warm water requirements amount to approximately 65% of our total water consumption. When multiplied over the entire year, this volume of water amounts to considerable energy and cost. A sensible use for solar energy is hot water supply with the help of solar collectors.
Every year 1000 kWh of solar energy is received in the British over each square metre. The standard home requires in the region of 3000 kWh per year for hot water supply.
Solar Water Heating
Solar water heating systems are usually composed of panels that convert sunlight to heat. These systems may be used to heat household hot water or a swimming pool, or to even make a contribution towards underfloor heating. Solar water heating panels are one of the most cost efficient ways to decrease your utility bills and make a helpful contribution towards the environment. In fact the quantity of pollution reduced by installing a household solar water heating system is the same as taking one car off the road. (i.e. about 1500m3 CO2 per annum).
There are two types of solar thermal collectors; the conventional flat plate collector and the more efficient vacuum tube collectors.
Flat plate solar water heating panels vs. Vacuum solar water heating panels
Evacuated solar water heating panels are more efficient than conventional flat plate type collectors and will out perform them significantly in cold, cloudy and windy conditions - regrettably too common in the UK and Ireland. The superior efficiency of evacuated tubes mean less area is covered on the roof by the solar panels - an attractive feature valued by most customers.
Having less solar panel area on the roof reduces the fluid content of the solar water heating system enabling quicker response to solar radiation.
Vacuum is the best possible insulation for a solar water heating panel. It safeguards the collector from moisture, condensation and pollutants - ensuing an enhanced toughness and all-year-round performance.
Summary of advantages of vacuum over flat plate solar panels- Higher efficiency even in low light intensities (e.g. cloudy days)
- Ability to achieve high temperatures
- The solar panels are easy to install due to its lightweight design
- Improved aesthetics - Modern and elegant design
- Covers less roof area - Less visually intrusive
- Each tube on the solar panel is individually replaceable allowing for easy repair in case of damage.
- Longer life span providing an improved return on investment