Mark Group

Solar Hot Water Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Solar Hot Water system?

Solar hot water systems (sometimes called Solar Thermal systems) convert light into heat, which in turn creates hot water for your home.

A Solar Hot Water system is one of the most cost effective and environmentally friendly renewable energy resources available. Although systems have been around since the 1970’s, it is only recently that technological advances have provided a greater selection of equipment which can be tailored to suit each application.

Not only can solar hot water systems be used for domestic water heating, they can also be used for larger applications, such as commercial properties and heating swimming pools.

There are three main components in a solar water heating system for domestic applications.

• Solar Panels – that collect heat from the sun’s rays and transfer it to a glycol/water solution.
• Plumbing System – which includes simple piping and a pump, to pump the glycol solution around the system to hot water
• Hot Water Cylinder – which stores the hot water for domestic use.

What are the benefits of Solar Hot Water?

A Solar Hot Water system should provide 50 to 70% of your water heating virtually FREE each year. In the summer months, the system can actually provide almost all your hot water needs and around 50% for the rest of year.

Not only can a Solar Hot Water system save you money, it can also reduce your impact on the environment. On average, we estimate a domestic system can reduce carbon emissions by around 400 kgs each year.

Payback periods vary depending on a number of factors including the type of fuel displaced and the amount of hot water you use. You may be eligible for a grant to help with the cost of a Solar Hot Water system.

How long will it take to install the Solar Hot Water system?

A typical installation should take between one and two days to complete.

Our technicians will arrive at your home in a vehicle containing all the material and equipment required to carry out the work and complete the installation.

The vehicle our teams will arrive in will be clearly marked with the Mark Group logo and the technicians will be wearing our distinctive red and blue uniforms. Please remember, however, to ask them for their identification cards.

Prior to starting work they will perform a pre-installation check to verify everything is OK to proceed.

The installation will commence with the appropriate access equipment being erected. Our qualified technicians willthen install the panels onto your roof, whilst another crew member will work inside your property to install a pump station, hot water cylinder and appropriate pipework.

Is there much mess?

No, not really. Any dust or debris will be cleared by our technicians before they leave.

Do I need to provide anything?

You will need to ensure that there is a fused spur in the vicinity of the hot water cylinder location.

Does the technician have to come into the house?

The technician must have access to your roof and to your existing hot water cylinder, which will be replaced.

Is the work checked/tested?

Your system will be fully tested before we leave.

How long does Solar Hot Water last?

All our Solar Hot Water products come with manufacturer backed guarantees. Life expectancy can be 35+ years.

When will I receive the guarantee?

In addition to the manufacturers backed guarantee which covers the equipment, you will receive a “REIGA” guarantee for the installation, named after the agency that issues them (Renewable Energy Installation Guarantee Agency). It is an independent guarantee for a period of 10 years. We will apply for it on your behalf and it will be sent to you direct from REIGA. It can take up to 8 weeks for this to be delivered to you after installation.

REIGA is non-profit distributing; its only function is to stand as guarantor for the promises set out in the guarantee. It has the resources to meet the promises made in the guarantee.

Are there any maintenance or servicing requirements?

Very little. Every month you should check visually that nothing has gone wrong outside. Every three years the integrity of the glycol within the system can be checked and tested.

Mark Group have a range of service packages available. More details can be provided on request.

If I am concerned after the installation - what should I do?

Talk to us to discuss your concerns and allow us an opportunity to investigate your worries. Most concerns can be resolved swiftly and efficiently so please do not hesitate to speak to a member of our customer services team.

Is my property suitable?

• Solar does work on all roofs but is most effective for a building with a roof that faces south, south east or south west.
• Not suitable if large trees or buildings overshadow the roof (If the roof is in shadow for part of the day, the effectiveness of the system decreases)
• Solar panels are suitable for all types of roof – pitched, flat or curved. The greater the surface area available the better the power potential, however frames can even be built on garages or nearby if more suitable.
• Solar panels may not be suitable if your roof has any penetrations on it.
• Solar panels do not work with all boiler systems; this will need to be checked in the initial survey.

What is the life span of the product/are there any guarantees?

All our products come with manufacturer guarantees; however, a typical life span of a solar panel can be anything from 10 to 25 years+.

Mark Group are a member of REIGA (Renewable Energy Installation Guarantee Agency) which means that when environmentally responsible homeowners – just like you – invest in renewable energy products, such as solar panels, you will get a 10 year installation guarantee, completely free, in addition to the manufacturers product guarantees.

For further information see www.reiga.org.uk

Do I need planning permission?

This is not always essential for domestic houses, however, planning permission may be required if your building is listed or in a conservation area. We would always recommend checking with your local planning department first.

What is the payback time on the technology?

Payback periods vary, depending on a number of factors including the type of fuel displaced and the amount of hot water you use.