SOLAR HOT WATER CONTRACTOR INSTALLED
CASE STUDY SHW04
LEAMINGTON SPA
INSTALLED:
c.2003
FUEL REPLACED
Gas
DESIGNED TO SERVE
1 adult + lots of visitors
PROPORTION OF NEEDS MET
More than 50% is what is suggested, but a lot more because I never put the gas on now except when I need to…
PROJECT IDEA
What I did:
Installed a flat plate solar thermal collector
Why I carried out the project:
had been planning to erect a self build as per CAT instructions in 1976’ish, but husband died and it too me a lot time to get organised (single parenting and the like)
What type of equipment was installed?
• Twin http://www.solartwin.com
• Only one model made
• Not given that I can find
Who was the installation company?
www.heavens-solar.com, from whom you can buy direct at a small saving
What costs were involved?
I remember I was just in time for the last of the £500 grants. I think it was around £2500…
DID I THINK IN TERMS OF PAYBACK?
No, I just knew I wanted it. Payback is difficult to calculate because the installation changes your whole attitude
FINANCIALLY WAS DECISION DIFFICULT?
No, I had the savings available
WAS THIS SOMETHING I OR MY FAMILY DID NOT PURCHASE AS A RESULT?
No
WAS THERE AGREEMENT IN THE HOUSEHOLD THAT THIS WAS THE RIGHT THING TO DO?!
Not needed, but the younger generation were in favour of their inheritance being spent this way!!
WHAT I LEARNT FROM THE PROJECT
Knowing the exact temperature of the water in the tank (digital read out) really made me think about how much heat I actually needed and when I needed it
WHAT WORKED?
No probs at all
WHAT DIDN’T WORK?
Ditto (as above)
UNEXPECTED KNOCK ON EFFECTS
both good and bad : as above
WOULD I REPEAT THE EXERCISE?
yes if you have the right situation : my roof is South facing and directly above my hot water tank
WHAT WOULD I DO DIFFERENTLY?
I might investigate the more expensive but more efficient evacuated tubes.
DO I PLAN TO INSTALL OTHER RENEWABLE ENERGY EQUIPMENT?
Yes : next will be photovoltaic on a South facing gable end…
ANY OTHER INFORMATION?
n/a