Solar hot water systems can last for 25 years and are a great investment.  It’s worth making sure that you get the best system that will perform for the future.  This brief guide is extracted from www.allecoenergy.com.  You'll want to book mark this page so you can come back to it.

If you’re not sure hot solar hot water systems work, check out the brief description here.

Collector type – There are two main types of solar hot water collectors – evacuated tube and flat plate.  Choose evacuated tube solar hot water collectors for performance; choose flat plate solar hot water collectors for aesthetics when required by the building style.

Efficiency of collector – absorbing heat is not the same as usable heat output.  Make sure that efficiency of your solar hot water collector is over 75% in terms of useable heat output, based on the absorber area. 
 
 
Testing of collector –Make sure that the collector is tested and complies with international standards:

• Solar Key Mark
• BS EN 12975
• Energy Technology List

Warranties – Solar hot water installations are very robust any faults should show up within months once they’re installed.  Make sure you get:

• 5 years on the solar hot water collectors
• 25+ years on the solar ready tank if pressurised
• 1 year  on parts and labour

 
Installer Certification – Not technically a product, but key nonetheless to make sure that your system is installed by someone that understands the solar hot water and installs to the right standards.  Make sure your installer is:

• Microgeneration Certification Scheme accredited for solar hot water
• Abides by the REAL Code of Conduct
• Employs installers with BPEC Solar Hot Water Installer training

DIY Installation - Again, not a product, but DIY installation of solar hot water is possible for those that are experienced in plumbing activities and also competant to work safely at heights.  Make sure that you buy products that comply with the requirements of the Microgeneration Certification SCheme (in particular pay attention to insulation on pipe work as an example, it should be c.20mm for 15mm pipe).  Purchasing from an online merchant that also does installation can be a good idea, as they understand the practical requirements.

Finally – Solar Hot Water Systems are great investments that require thought and planning.  Don’t rush into a contract with a salesman that puts pressure to do a “deal that's availably for today only”.  If the deal is real it will be available for some time to come.  25 years is a long time and it’s important to make sure you get the right system.