Solar panels have a relatively low environmental impact compared to other forms of energy generation, making them a great choice for anyone who thinks in terms of sustainability. But they also have an added advantage: homes with solar panels can cut back on monthly bills, so its installation is an investment in the future in terms of energy consumption.
As Patricia Carril, head of energy at Rastreator, explains, “using solar energy to heat the radiators in your home and having ACS can mean savings of around 50% on your gas bill.”
However, experts warn that heating with solar thermal panels and photovoltaic panels cannot cover 100% of consumption needs, so before installing them, it is advisable to be clear about all the details in this regard, starting with How to understand the electricity rate.
Different types of solar panels
La solar heating It is a system that uses the energy from solar panels placed on the roof of the house to obtain domestic hot water (DHW) and heatingHowever, the operation of the installation depends on the technology used, since not all solar panels work in the same way. The type of solar panel that should be chosen for self-consumption will depend on the devices installed for heating and domestic hot water.
Heating with solar thermal panels
Unlike thermal plates for heating, thermosiphons only serve to Naturally heat water intended for consumption (bathroom, shower, kitchen), so you will need another system to heat your home. This system does not consume electricity and is very useful for having DHW at home in a sustainable and cheap way. It is the most suitable option if the radiators or underfloor heating in your home work thanks to the water heated by a gas boiler.
Heating with photovoltaic solar panels
The technology of these plates transforms solar radiation into electrical energy which can be used for all household appliances, including electric water heaters, air conditioners or heat pumps used for heating and DHW at home. It is the most suitable option if the household appliances run on electricity, such as electric radiators or water heaters.
Do solar heating panels work in winter?
One of the big questions is whether solar heating is efficient in the winter months when there are fewer hours of sunshine and the sky is usually covered in clouds. Patricia Carril assures that, “photovoltaic panels are equally efficient at any time of the year, but Energy production may decrease in months with fewer hours of sunshine and higher energy demand. Therefore, solar energy can cover hot water needs in summer and support the heating system in winter to reduce the bill.”
Is it very expensive to install solar panels for heating?
Installing solar panels on the roof and adapting the heating system to run on renewable energy requires a significant initial outlay that will depend on the energy needs and capabilities of each home. In general, the price of a heating installation with solar panels can exceed 6.000 euros. This price includes a hot water tank, pumps to move the water in the circuit, pipes, a control unit, as well as labor. To ensure that the system is as efficient as possible, the expert advises that an energy study be carried out before beginning the installation.
The good news is that solar panels allow you to save money from the first day of installation. However, as the initial installation costs several thousand euros, The investment will not begin to pay off until a few years have passed and the profit margin will depend on the cost of the installation and the savings achieved each month on the energy bill.
Therefore, before installing solar panels, It is important to use a comparator and find the energy rate that best suits each case.This way, not only will you notice a significant reduction in your bill, you will also be investing in a more sustainable future for everyone.