CAN I USE SOLAR HEATING IN MY HOME?

In the UK alone 20,000 homes already benefit from solar heating, and most can use the technology needed to generate power or hot water. Legislation states that new build properties must get 10 per cent of energy from renewable systems - which says something for the belief that solar energy is one of the ways forward.

Some experts estimate that up to half of a home’s hot water requirements over a year can be generated using solar power.

MAINTENANCE

Like most equipment solar energy systems do require some maintenance - but on the whole - not much!

It pays to do annual checks yourself and bring in a professional every three to five years to give it a more through going over to check components such as wiring.

It is obviously a good idea to keep panels clean as they absorb more energy. Batteries on systems generating electricity for the home also need regular checks.


FOR THE BEST RESULTS

No mater what system you install it needs to be on a southeast or southwest facing roof tilted at an angle between 30 and 45 degrees.

The roof also needs to be as clear as possible of obstructions such as other buildings or over hanging trees that blot out the light.


MY ROOF IS FLAT DOES THAT MATTER?

Having a flat roof does not mean you can’t install solar panels, a steel frame is the most usual solution to providing the 30 to 45 degree slope recommended for the best capture of solar energy.