ᐅ Do solar thermal panels effectively support heating systems?

Created on: 21 Feb 2014 08:08
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Hi,
I would like to get some opinions. What do you think about solar collectors for heating support?

My situation: The house faces south and there is little shade. About 160 sqm (1,722 sq ft) of living space. I am not planning a large heating system inside the living areas. The walls are built with 24cm (9.5 inches) Ytong blocks. New doors and windows will be installed. The roof is insulated.

An energy consultant advised against solar collectors, saying we don’t get enough sunlight. The investment costs are high and energy savings would be minimal. For domestic hot water support, they said it would be okay.

I also visited two specialist companies. Company A said the opposite. They claimed the investment costs would be limited and the heating support would be excellent.

The second company gave arguments similar to the energy consultant. They said at least 800 liters (210 gallons) of storage would be necessary, which is very expensive. They only recommended solar collectors for domestic hot water support.

So, now I’m out of ideas and asking here: what is your opinion?

Thank you very much
M
Mattia-1
25 Feb 2014 09:27
But 800 liters (210 gallons) is quite a significant amount. I also agree that a solar domestic hot water system is definitely cost-effective and would recommend it.
K
Karl-Steffen-1
26 Feb 2014 08:16
I also find it strange that the experts have differing opinions. I think many detailed questions still need to be clarified before such an investment can be undertaken.