Solar Water Heating Systems

Solar water heating systems convert solar energy into thermal energy and then use it to heat water. The heated water is then stored for later use.

A roof-mounted collector

Whatever your Mechanical Services needs, from simple ventilation to fully comprehensive systems including heat recovery and solar water heating, Andrew Engineering will be able to turn your requirement into reality.

From initial client brief and systems design, to hand over, the whole process will be professionally managed.

Either working from a full client specification or an open statement of requirement, Andrew Engineering will bring the experience necessary to ensure the optimum system selection.

Andrew Engineering can tailor an individual solution to meet the requirements and provide energy efficient solutions for your environment.

Andrew Engineering can design and build systems using equipment from a range of major manufacturers, yet remain completely independent.

Choice of equipment is based upon consideration of all the factors involved to achieve the best solution for the customer.

The system we recommend uses vacuum tubes as they have high efficiency all year round.

Benefits of vacuum solar tube systems

High temperature output even in cold weather
Warms water even in winter
Works in overcast weather

In comparison, the cheaper flat plate type collectors work well in high ambient temperatures (summer) but do not perform so well in low ambient (winter), when heat losses are high.

Sizing of the system should be based on the demand for hot water, this determines the required storage capacity, which then determines the size of the collector. The location of the collector should ideally be close to the storage tanks so that heat losses from the pipework are minimised.

Solar panels should ideally be sited on a south facing pitched roof, with no shade at around 40°. If there is no suitable pitched roof they can be mounted on a frame on the ground or a flat roof.

Solar water heating systems use the radiation from the sun to heat water, which is used to heat the water in a hot water cylinder.

Solar water heating systems, including the roof mounted solar panels, are generally allowed under the Permitted Development rules. However, this does not apply for listed buildings or in conservation areas (where Planning Permission will be required).

It is usually necessary to change the hot water cylinder or to add additional hot water storage capacity, so consideration must be given to the space required.

Solar Water Heating Enquiry Form (.pdf format, 631k file)