Q: Will the British weather impact on the effectiveness of the panels?
A: The panels work extremely well within the UK as it relies on daylight, not just sunlight.

Q: How big are the panels?
A: The size will vary depending on hot water demand but typically 2m x 1.5m x 2m for basic standard equipment.

Q: Do tiles need to be removed?
A: Tiles do not need to be removed, as the panels can be surface mounted. On a new build they can be built flush, or on a traditional installation they can be fitted flush if the client wishes.

Q: Do I need planning?
A: Listed Building Consent or when in a conservation area usually yes but, please check with Local Building Control in all cases.

Q: Do they have to be south facing?
A: Yes, South West or South East is also acceptable.

Q: Will it affect the stability of my roof?
A: No.

Q: Can I add it to my existing system?
A: Yes.

Q: Can it be used on wood/laminate/plastic flooring?
A: Yes.

Q: Can it be installed on a floor that is already laid or will I require a new floor?
A: On suspended floor this usually does not cause an issue, but on other floors like concrete, then a new floor or excavation will be required.

Q: Can I add it to my existing system?
A: Yes.

Q: How controllable is it?
A: Very controllable. If desired, you can have a separate zone for each room.

Q: How difficult is it to fit?
A: Underfloor heating has been used for many years and most installers have had experience in under floor installation.

Q: Is this like a water butt?
A: The tank is usually under ground with all pipes and services connected to it, with a small manhole cover being the only visual part of the tank.

Q: Where are they installed?
A: Usually in the garden.

Q: What is the maintenance?
A: Very little, but most manufacturers recommend an inspection every two years.

Q: How do they provide water?
A: There is a small pump on a pressure/flow switch so there is no difference in flow rate from mains water supply.

Q: What is a high efficiency boiler?
A: High efficiency condensing boilers convert more than 88% of their fuel into heat, compared to 78% for conventional types. A high efficiency condensing boiler works on the principle of recovering as much as possible of the waste heat, which is normally rejected to the atmosphere from the flue of a conventional (non-condensing) boiler.

Q: Is my boiler a high efficiency condensing boiler?
A: Boilers are rated according to how much of the fuel they consume is converted to heat, as a percentage. This rating is called SEDBUK – Seasonal Efficiency of Domestic Boilers in the UK. SEDBUK ratings are from A to G – A-rated boilers being more than 90% efficient. Only A-rated boilers carry the energy saving recommended logo.

Q: Is it simply a case of switching my existing boiler?
A: Yes.

Q: How much space do they take up?
A: This will depend on hot water demand and they usually start from 550mm width x 1.2m height.

Q: If I currently have a cylinder, can I just swap them over?
A: A cylinder is not difficult to change or to convert to a pressurised system.

Q: Does it link with other systems, or specific to a device?
A: It will usually link to most products with ease.

Q: Where will it be located?
A: They can be internal and external.

Q: What maintenance is required?
A: Very little but most manufacturers state an inspection every two years.

Q: Do I need planning permission?
A: Usually no, but always check with Local Building Control.

Q: Is the pump unsightly or hidden?
A: The internal pumps, depending on output, look like a washing machine in size and in a white case. The external units usually come in a weather proof construction.

Q: Can I add it to my existing system?
A: Yes you can, but the existing radiator, if not oversized, will be required to be replaced.

Q: Can I use it in conjunction with other energy systems?
A: Yes and by using a thermal store you could connect an open fire with back boiler, Aga, Solar Panels and a traditional boiler – the combination is endless.

Q: How big is the turbine?
A: The physical size depends on the required output of the turbine.

Q: How is it attached?
A: They usually have their own support post when a larger output is used, but when small units are being fitted these attach to the dwelling.

Q: Will it damage my roof tiles?
A: No.

Q: Will I need planning permission?
A: Yes.

Q: Does it link with other energy supplies?
A: Yes, surplus energy can be sold to the grid or if energy is required it can be purchased.

Q: Is it noisy?
A: No, the modern turbine is quiet.