Due to global warming, water is becoming scarce. Not only is the climate becoming hotter, but also water evaporation is on the increase. In the southeast of England, there is less water available per head than in Sudan.
Regardless of the amount of rain that falls on the UK, we still have a water crisis on our hands.
Worldwide abnormal weather patterns are not helping. Many countries are starved of rain for months on end and are then deluged by torrential rainfall. This causes flash floods, and instead of replenishing the underground water levels, it simply sits on the hardened ground.
We must all do our best to conserve water, wherever we live. Washing machines and dishwashers are now a lot more eco-friendly than they used to be.
Toilets use a lot of unnecessary water.
Flushing the toilet accounts for 30% of household water usage. By placing a brick in the toilet cistern we could save 10 million litres of water a day.
Place water butts by the down pipe on your shed to collect rainwater. Use this to water your garden.
Did you know? - Dishwashers now use 15ltr of water, compared to 50ltr back in the 1970’s. Did you know? - The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) has freshwater projects in 10 different countries, helping to restore the water levels. They are reconnecting lakes to rivers, and protecting wetlands along the Amazon, the Rio Grande and the Yangtze.
Let's discuss Solar Water Heating as an alternative, below are a few ideas/suggestions/tips on what to think about if you are looking to install a solar water heater in your home or office.
Solar Water Heating... Solar water heating systems convert the sun’s free energy to heat your hot water.
How Does Solar Heating Work? Large solar panels are fitted to a roof in many cases, although they could be sited elsewhere, albeit in a sunny position. The solar panels are manufactured to absorb the sun’s rays, which in turn, uses a heat transfer system to heat your hot water in the home.
A twin coil hot water cylinder stores the hot water, for use whenever it is needed. The water cylinder is usually located in your pre-existing airing cupboard.
What Do These Solar Water Heaters Look Like?
The solar panels come in various sizes, depending on how much hot water you wish to generate, and how large your roof is. They can be fitted flush to the roof tiles and look like a large glass panel, not unlike a Velux window.
Is My House Suitable?
To generate the best hot water, the solar panels are typically fitted to a south facing roof. If this is not an option, then a southeast or southwest roof space can be used. It is not recommended to fit the panels on a north-facing roof, as this will be in shade for much of the day. The panels are quite heavy, so your roof needs to be in a good condition and be strong enough to take the weight.
The panels could also be fitted to a flat roof or a gable end. If you decide to have them in your garden, then they can be fitted to an A-frame, which can be discreetly hidden. The typical roof area required would be 2–5 square meters. You need to ensure that you can convert your original hot water cylinder into a twin coil cylinder.
What’s The Cost?
The cost depends on the size of the solar panel, the type of roof it is going to sit on, and your existing system. A typical solar heating system costs in the region of £4,500-£5,000.
What About Planning Permission?
Some local authorities require planning position, depending on where you live. Planning permission is generally required in conservation areas. Check with your local council first. If you live in a listed building, permission will not be allowed.
What Are The Benefits Of Solar Water Heating?
The solar panelled hot water system could save you up to 90% on your hot water bills during the summer, and 30% during the winter months. Overall it could mean that you have an annual saving of between 50-70%.
Solar panels help to save the impact on the environment. The average domestic heating systems could reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 400-750kg per year, depending on which fuel is being replaced.
Solar panels work in periods of broken sunshine too, so are ideal for the British climate.
It is becoming known that people are willing to pay £10,000 more for a home built to a high standard of environmental friendliness.
Ongoing Maintenance
Little maintenance is required once the system has been fitted. An annual check by a professional installer is required, with maybe a more detailed check every 3-5 years.
What About Grants?
Grants are available if you know where to look. If you are a charitable trust, school or non-profit making organisation, then you may b able to get a grant through the Low Carbon Buildings Programme.
Ground Source Heat?...
Using water warmed in the ground to heat your home.
