Solar hot water incentives and underfloor heating

If you're thinking of installing underfloor heating as part of a new build, extension or renovation, then you shouldn't neglect solar hot water to power it.

Government incentive tariff's (similar to the current Feed-in Tariff's for photovoltaic electricity generating panels) will start paying out next year, with some pilot scheme and installation incentives already being trialled in the Governments Green Deal.

Underfloor heating runs on lower water temperatures than traditional central heating and when coupled with ground or air source heat pumps (both also eligible for tariff payments under the proposed 'Green Deal') or solar hot water panels, can make a real difference to your energy bills.

And many homeowners are now prepared to spend a little extra in return for a heating system that is not only highly efficient, but has lower running and servicing costs.

Whether you're thinking of heating the whole of your downstairs, or you're just thinking about one room - a garage conversion for example - especially where it may be difficult to include your present heating system, then underfloor heating may be for you.

photo credit: emilian robert viol

This story appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 12th September 2011. Click Here to read the full newsletter.

Using photovoltaic solar panels to heat water

It's easy to overlook the obvious and think that you need a 'hot water' solar system for your home's hot water needs.

In reality, you could think about using a photovoltaic (electricity) system for both power and for heating your hot water needs via an immersion heater.

When you factor in the tariff payments, and ever rising gas prices, even traditional gas central heating/hot water system could be more expensive to run.

Even a little power during the Winter months could still be used to 'pre-heat' you water and lessen your energy bills.

Worth asking your solar installer about - especially if your household uses a lot of hot water for bathing and showers etc.

And if your running out of roof space for a separate hot water solar panel system, then diverting some of the electricity from your photovoltaic solar system to your hot water needs might provide better value for money than just powering your electrical needs.

This article first appeared in our weekly homeowner newsletter dated 31st May 2011. Click here to read the full newsletter now.

photo credit: tammy