INTRODUCTION

Solar water heating systems gather energy radiated by the sun and convert it into useful heat in the form of hot water. Solar technology is the most cost effective technology of the future; a clean, environmentally friendly form of energy which also offers clear cost savings. This is why an ever increasing number of homeowners are choosing a hot water supply system using solar energy. On average, with a correctly designed system, an annual saving of up to two-thirds of the energy required for heating water is possible - and all that is needed is a roof.

SYSTEMS

We spent considerable time evaluating various systems for reliability, efficiency and cost effectiveness. We now supply and fit two systems. In the main, we fit the ATON system which is an innovative Dutch design - tried and tested - system which has been installed across Europe for over a decade. The other system that we fit is SCHUCO a German manufactured conventional, but highly efficient mains powered system. This system we tend to fit where 'on roof' mounting is preferred to 'roof integration' or price is a major consideration.

ATON SYSTEM

This system is an elegant roof integrated design which is planning friendly - falls under same rules as roof lights e.g. Velux.

The flat plate collector has a high-tec, extremely efficient selective surface coating. This records a massive 96% absorption rate, emitting only 8% of the heat received.

It is the complete independent solar solution - 100% solar powered. Solar electric module used to power the pump and controls. So there are no running costs, and no risk from power cuts. The system is also maintenance free. No scheduled service required. The new closed system is completely sealed, so no water is lost to evaporation, so the drain-back unit no topping up and no maintenance.

Full safety features are incorporated - boil and freeze protection. The system shuts off when light levels drop at dusk or when maximum temperature of 80 deg C is reached in cylinder.

A new twin coil cylinder is included - highly recommended as it causes better stratification of heat in the cylinder. Therefore the system is allowed to perform to its best potential in conjunction with a back-up boiler. The highly insulated cylinders that we install have a zero ozone depletion potential, so are environmentally benign. For further information log on to:- www.imaginationsolar.com

SCHUCO SYSTEM

The Schuco Compact line is an entry-level solar system with proven quality and reliability. The use of high quality materials throughout guarantees durability and reliability.

High-performance solar panels from the Compact line offer two special advantages that ensure highly efficient thermal transfer systems: clear, low-iron glass for a high degree of light transmission and the ultra-modern Sunselect absorber coating.

The technically advanced components of the Compact line allow fast, economical installation of solar thermal transfer solutions tailored to the size of the individual household. Another benefit is that the systems are impressively simple to install, enabling us to be extremely competitive. We can install a single panel Schuco system from £1,600.00 inclusive of SCHRI grant.

The SchucoSol K and SchucoSol K.1 flat solar panels represent the heart of the solar thermal transfer systems for the Compact line and are ideal for domestic hot water or swimming pool heating systems. Further details can be obtained from the Schuco web site www.schueco.de.

OUR EXPERIENCE

We have have had many years experience in installing both large and small solar systems from single panel basic systems to complex multi panel systems with shared usage. The photo used in the banner of this section was part of a large installation at Brighouse Bay, Borgue, Kirkcudbright for Gillespie Leisure www.gillespie-leisure.co.uk. We always advise on what we feel is the the correct system for individual requirements, based on water usage, type and position of house etc.

All photo's shown are from our own portfolio.