FAQ
Here are most commonly asked questions about solar hot water from Homesmart.
- Will my Solar Hot Water collectors work when it's cloudy?
- What is the payback period for Solar Hot Water?
- How much hot water will the system generate?
- How long will an installation take?
- Will I need a new boiler?
- What happens if I have a combi boiler?
- Why is anti freeze used in the system, and why will it need changing every 3-5 years?
- Will I need to clean the Solar Hot Water panels?
- Is there enough sun where I live?
- Can I fix a Solar Hot Water panel to a flat roof?
- I don't have a south facing roof?
- What are the environmental benefits of Solar Hot Water?
- Can I expand the system if my family size increases?
- What happens if I smash a vacuum tube?
Will my Solar Hot Water collectors work when it's cloudy?
Yes, Solar Collectors work by converting Solar Radiation into Heat and under cloud cover will still provide a gain.
What is the payback period for Solar Hot Water?
At today’s current fuel prices you can expect a return between 6 – 10 years on domestic hot water, and 3 – 6 years for Swimming Pools.
How much hot water will the system generate?
Following your site survey from a Homesmart approved installer; a system will be designed to meet your complete hot water needs.
How long will an installation take?
Typical installations will be carried out in a day, however should extra work be required a couple of days may need to be added.
Will I need a new boiler?
No you will not need to replace your boiler, the system works in conjunction with your existing boiler
What happens if I have a combi boiler?
To benefit from Solar Power you will need to install a hot water cylinder. As long as you have space (including your loft) then a solar thermal system can be integrated.
Why is anti freeze used in the system, and why will it need changing every 3-5 years?
Anti freeze is introduced to the system to avoid freezing in the winter. As anti freeze looses its properties it will need to be replaced to prevent this, prolonging the life of your Homesmart system.
Will I need to clean the Solar Hot Water panels?
Our panels are designed to be self cleaning to ensure a maintenance free solution.
Is there enough sun where I live?
Yes the UK receives 60% of the Solar Radiation of that found on the equator.
Can I fix a Solar Hot Water panel to a flat roof?
Yes, flat roof mounting frames are available should you wish to site panels on a flat roof. The panel will still need to be positioned at a 30˚ angle.
I don't have a south facing roof?
Yes, as the sun rises in the east and sets in the west Solar Panels can be used anywhere along the suns path. Roofs with a northerly orientation are not suitable for Solar Panel. View Property Suitability for more information
What are the environmental benefits of Solar Hot Water?
Solar Hot Water is a green, renewable heating system and doesn’t release any harmful carbon Dioxide or other pollutants. Reducing your carbon footprint ensures that the planet is protected for future generations to enjoy.
Can I expand the system if my family size increases?
Yes, your installer can add extra Solar Panels to accommodate for increases in the number of habitants. You may however need to increase the size of your hot water cylinder.
What happens if I smash a vacuum tube?
Very rare as the tubes are toughened. Should a vacuum tube break it will condensate and appear white. Replacement tubes are easily available via Homesmart Stockists and can be changed by your installer. Acting quickly in replacing the tubes is advised, as damage can be caused to the system if the copper tube is left exposed.