FAQ's about solar panels
Solar panels have been around for decades, but it is only recently their benefits have come to the forefront internationally..
Solar panels have been around for decades, but it is onlyrecently their benefits have come to the fore front internationally.
The basics
Do solar panels workwell in our country?
Solar radiation, which life on earth depends upon, can also be harvested using solar panels.Even in the United Kingdom, ( which receives 60% of what the equator receives)we get between 800/1200 kwh /sq m, depending on your geographical location. A common misconception is that solar requires direct sunlight to work. Photons penetrate clouds, allowing the system to workeven on cloudy and overcast days.
There are two types of solar technology. Which is best?
PV (electric) solar panels and solar (heating) panels are both known as solar power, but each one does two very different jobs. Both technologies are very good at what they do, but which one is best for your circumstances will depend on many different factors. Our trained consultants can discuss your requirements and help you choose.
How much do solar panels cost?
Solar panels are not a one size fits all type of technology. Homes vary in many ways and a home survey/inspection is necessary to determine a tailored quotation based on your individual home.
How can I get a survey on my home?
Call us on our free phone number to arrange a suitable date for a home inspection.
Do solar panels work in the winter months?
Yes. A lot of our previous customers have been surprised by the performance even on a cold January morning, but due to the sun being lower in the sky and reduced day light hours there is a reduction in output compared to summer months.
How long will an installation take?
This does depend on which solar technology you choose, but we always try to limit disruption to your household while work is being carried out.
What are the benefits of installing solar panels?
A simple answer would be that they reduce dependence on increasing energy prices and increase the value of your home. For PV solar panels, you will be generating your own power and earning an income from selling your surplus to the National Grid.
For solar heating panels, the most obvious benefit is updating your heating system to reduce the use of your boiler over the coming years.
How long do solar panels last?
A good quality system can be expected to perform well for 30+ years. We also know of PV solar panels installed in the 1960s which are still working fine today.
Will my installation require any servicing?
PV solar panels are a fit and forget system. No maintenance is required after installation.
Solar heating panels do require a service every 3 years to check system pressure and PH levels of the solar fluid. This can be easily arranged with us so you wont have to worry about remembering.
Is there any government assistance available?
Yes. Our consultants will discuss this with you on a home survey/inspection.
What assurances canyou give on the quality of your installation?
Affordable Solar Energy is BPEC approved and ELECSA Part P registered. The technology we install is of the highest international standard, and is Solarkeymark accredited and ISO / BSI / DIN regularly assess the quality system of the factory site.
Affordable Solar Energy is also a member of the Renewable Energy Installation Guarantee Agency and we are an independently approved company by REIGA.