Direct Line Maintenance Services LTD - 0800 056 0635
SOLAR PANELS
Solar Overview
Direct Line Maintenance Services Ltd are BRE approved solar thermal hot water installers who can design, specify and install any solar thermal hot water system.
As traditional energy sources decline and global temperatures rise, renewable energy solutions are critical for environmental stability.
How does it work?
Solar collectors absorb energy from the sun to heat a fluid which is circulated through a water cylinder.
Where are the collectors fitted?
Collectors can be easily sited on pitched or flat roofs. They can be roof integrated, mounted on frames or even integrated as a canopy. Collectors should ideally face south but they will work with a small efficiency loss sited between 30 degrees east and 40 degrees west of south.
Vacuum or Flat Plate?
Vacuum tube collectors offer higher operating efficiency all year round and easier installation.
Flat plate collectors are used where a more robust unit is preferred or areas where vandalism may be a problem.
How many collectors will I need?
This will depend on various factors. The size of the property, the hot water usage, and the angle/orientation of collectors.
Generally a 2 or 3 bedroom semi-detached with 2 adults using 40 litres of hot water each will need 2 flat plates or 3 vacuum tube panels.
Will it work in our climate?
The panels work using diffused solar radiation as well as direct sunlight. This means they generate small amounts of energy even on cloudier days thus reducing the boiler load.
Why do I still need my boiler?
A typical solar domestic hot water system can provide around 60% of annual hot water requirements. To ensure hot water is available on demand an alternative heat source will be required to make up the shortfall. The boiler will also be required to operate the central heating.
How much will it cost?
Installation costs vary and there is not a typical cost. Costs will be dependant on the number of collectors required, specification, the cylinder, roof access, building and wiring work. We can provide an accurate quotation on request to suit your individual requirements.
Are there any financial incentives to install solar?
The Low carbon Buildings programme funded by the government encourages homeowners to apply for grants up to £400. A professionally installed system by an accredited installer will also be chargeable at the lower VAT rate of 5%.
Microgeneration Scheme
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) is designed to evaluate products and installers against vigorous criteria for microgeneration technologies. This provides greater protection for consumers and ensures that taxpayers grant money is spent effectively.
In addition Direct Line Maintenance Services Ltd is a member of the Renewable Energy Association (REA) assurance scheme. This consumer code clearly sets out what you are entitled to expect from a responsible company and that goods and services meet necessary quality standards.
Further information
Please contact our office to discuss your requirements or arrange a survey.
Links
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Many thanks for the wonderful workmanship.
It was really appreciated.
- Mrs. Sheila Prince
I just wanted to say a big thank you to your team for all of your help and hard work.
- Mrs. Laura Wilson
I would like to say Carl was the most outstanding workman we have ever come across. His manner and attitude were exemplary.
- Carole & Pete O’Gara