G.B. Solar: Solar options

Solar Power water heating systems are the most popular form of solar energy used in the UK. Solar heated water is pumped in to the household heating system and can provide up to 50% of the household's required annual hot water. There are 2 types of solar water heating collector: flat plate and evacuated tubes.

Flat Plate Collectors: Solar water heating panels in their simplest form are made from a sheet of metal painted black which absorbs the suns energy. Water is fed through the panel in pipes attached to the metal sheet and picks up the heat in the metal. For the UK climate the systems are designed not to freeze withstanding temperatures of -38°c. The pipes are often made of copper for better conduction. The metal sheet is embedded in an insulated box and covered with glass or clear plastic on the front. The system is usually installed on the roof.

Evacuated Tubes: The evacuated tube system is a series of glass heat tubes grouped together. The tubes are highly insulated, due to a vacuum inside the glass.