image courtesy of efizia
What are Thermodynamic Solar Panels?
Thermodynamic Solar Panels are an alternative solution to solar thermal. Solar thermal works by absorbing energy from the sun which is then converted to provide hot water/ heat your property. Thermodynamics is the result of a huge advancement in solar thermal technology and works by absorbing energy from the atmosphere rather than from energy provided by the sun – this enables thermodynamic panels to work throughout the year and in all whether conditions.
How Do Thermodynamic Solar Panels Work?
Thermodynamic solar panels hold a fluid which constantly moves through the panel – this liquid is used to absorb heat energy from the atmosphere. As heat energy is higher in temperature it changes the liquid to a gas. The gas is then passed to a converter which enables the gas to become hot. You now have hot gas which is passed to a heat exchange and thermodynamic block – the heat generated previously is transferred to water which can now be used throughout your property.
What are the benefits?
There are many major benefits that are provided by Thermodynamic solar panels – one being that such panels work in rain, sunshine, frost and snow 24 hours per day 365 days per year. The great thing about Thermodynamic solar panels is that they DO NOT rely on sunlight like other solar panel modules do.
Here are a few more benefits provided by Thermodynamic solar panels:
- Works when temperatures drop to -15 Degrees C
- Works in all weather 24 hours per day, 365 days per year
- 1 Panel can provide hot water for 4-5 People
- Can be mounted to a wall or roof
- Requires minimal maintenance
- Provides up to 100% of your hot water
- No Restrictions on roof position
- Works in dark conditions (at night)
- Heats water to 55°C all year round
- Save up to 80% on your Gas Bill
As you can see, there are many benefits from Thermodynamic solar panels but as I mentioned the major advancement in this technology now means that your system can generate your hot water/ central heating all year around regardless of the whether conditions right down to -15 degrees C allowing homeowners to save even more with the use of solar panels
How much can I save?
Thermodynamic solar panels are highly efficient, more than the popular Solar Thermal panel. With savings of up to 80% on gas bills you’re guaranteed to make a return on your investment. Although there may be an increase in electricity cost to run such a system this will be minimal compared to water rates and the usual cost of your gas bills. If you have a solar pv system then this should cover any increase in electricity costs making this an even more of a worth while investment.
How much do they cost?
The good thing about Thermodynamic solar panels is that a small system can provide hot water for up to 4 people (just 1 panel in most cases)! With that in mind let’s look at some expected prices: (please note the prices listed are estimates and do not reflect any prices from installers in our network.)
As Thermodynamic solar panels provide 100% of a property’s hot water I would say prices should be expected to be around £4500 – £6500.
If you’re keen on solar thermodynamics and what accurate prices then we highly recommend our network of installers – simply complete the form to the right and we’ll have up to 3 accurate prices with you in no time.
