Solar Panels

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Solar water heating systems use free heat from the sun to warm domestic hot water. A conventional boiler or immersion heater is then used to make the water hotter, or to provide hot water when solar energy is unavailable.
Solar water heating systems use solar panels, called collectors, fitted to your roof. These collect heat from the sun and use it to warm water, which is stored in a hot water cylinder.
A boiler or immersion heater can then heat this water further until it reaches the temperature set by the cylinder's thermostat. (This should be set at 60 degrees centigrade.)

The benefits of solar water heating

Hot water throughout the year: the system works all year round, though you'll need to heat the water further with a boiler or immersion heater during the winter months.
Cut your bills: sunlight is free, so once you've paid for the initial installation your hot water costs will be reduced.