Solar Hot Water Heating systems (also known as Solar Thermal) collect light radiation and convert it to heat; the heat is then transferred to the hot water cylinder thereby heating the domestic hot water. Even on cloudy days there is light, so every day the system will collect light radiation, the resulting heat in the hot water cylinder is determined only by the amount of light collected that day.

A Solar Hot Water system is one of the most cost effective and environmentally friendly renewable energy resources available.

In the summer months, a Solar Hot Water system can actually provide almost all of your hot water needs and around 50% for the rest of year. This averages out to around 60-70% of the year round domestic hot water requirement produced by FREE solar energy.

Not only does a Solar Hot Water system save you money, it also reduces your impact on the environment. A typical domestic system can reduce carbon emissions by around half a ton per year. This has become particularly relevant with the introduction of Carbon Tax.

Solar Hot Water systems can be installed on the majority of buildings; however we would need to carry out a site survey in order to confirm whether an installation is feasible. Our Solar collectors can be installed on pitched roofs, flat roofs, A-frames on the ground, even wall mounted!

The installation of Solar Collectors is allowed, without additional permission, as a Permitted Development on most homes. Listed buildings or properties located within a conservation area may require additional details to be supplied to the local authority in order for them to give consent for the installation. We will be happy to help obtain additional permission should it be required.

Yes, we recommend that hot press is emptied of towels, clothes, etc and that there is clear access within the roof space to allow our installers to carry out the installation efficiently and safely.

No, dust sheets are used throughout the house to minimise any dust or debris, and our technicians will thoroughly clear up before they leave.

A typical installation should take between one and two days to complete. Work will take place both inside and outside the property in this time with the installation of the panels onto your roof, and also the installation of a pump station, hot water cylinder and appropriate pipe work. In the event that work is delayed due to inclement weather, we will endeavour to keep to our schedule where possible but will keep you informed of any changes.

No, however we do ask that you are present at the property throughout the installation and for the hand over once the installation is complete.

Activ8 Energies’ Solar water heating systems will typically last in excess of 25 years.

All our products come with manufacturer guarantees; the panels and hot water cylinders are guaranteed for 10 years.

Very little. A regular visual check is advisable ensuring that the panels are kept relatively clean and that shade from trees or other obstructions has not become a problem.

We would also advise that the integrity of the glycol in the heat transfer medium be checked and tested for its acidity level every few years. Activ8 Energies are able to provide this service if required, further details are available on request.

Solar Hot Water Systems vary in price depending on the size and complexity of the system to be installed, hot water usage, the number and type of solar collectors installed, the design of the building and location of the solar collectors.

The technicians will optimise the operation of the Solar Hot Water system during the commissioning process. In order to obtain maximum benefit from a Solar Hot Water system, continue using your domestic hot water as you would do normally.

The technicians will explain how to get the most from your solar water heating system during the hand over procedure.