My renewable energy showroom at Heatforce (Wales) Ltd Heatforce (Wales) Ltd

Frequently asked questions about solar panels, air source heat pumps and ground source heat pumps

Paul Maddocks, the proprietor of Heatforce (Wales) Ltd, remains personally involved in the key aspects of heating surveys, advising customers needs and recommending the most effective and appropriate green technology systems. Heatforce's aim is to provide complete satisfaction with quality products in all installations. Paul has compiled a list of frequently asked questions about renewable energy for your reference:

Can solar panels run my central heating?

No, solar thermal energy can be utilised for keeping hot water tanks topped up with hot water at present. However, air to water systems can be used with underfloor heating systems (like the Heatforce renewable energy showroom at Pugh's Garden Centre).

Which way does my roof need to face for solar panels to be effective?

A roof facing South West or South East provide the most effective solar panel installation. East and West facing rooves aren't necessarily discounted but Heatforce can provide a solar panel feasibilty survey prior to any formal commitment. If you do not have a suitable roof, you may want to consider a canopy, facade or 'A' frame installation for your home.

Can I generate electricity with solar panels?

Yes you can, this is done using PV (Photovoltaics) solar panels. Photovoltaics are more expensive to purchase and install, but they can supplement a proportion of your electricity demand. Excess electricity produced is normally sold back to the National Grid.

How do air source heat pumps work?

Air source heat pumps extract heat from the air, similar to the way a fridge extracts heat from its inside. Air source heat pumps can extract heat from air even when the outside temperature is as low as -15° C.

What types of air source heat pumps are available?

There are two types of air source heat pumps, air-to-water and air to air systems. Air to water heat pumps use heat to warm water, however they heat water to a lower temperature than a standard boiler system so are more suitable for underfloor heating systems than conventional radiator systems. An air-to-air systems produce warm air that is circulated by fans to heat your home.

How much space does an air source heat pump need?

Air source heat pumps require a reasonable amount or room outside the home to be fitted to a wall or placed on the ground. They require plenty of space around the unit to ensure a good flow of air.

Does an air source heat pump provide the same heat as a boiler?

No, air source heat pumps produce less heat than traditional boilers. An essential consideration prior to installation is whether your home is insulated and draught proofed well, if it isn't an air source heat pump won't provide an effective heating system for your home.

What is a ground source heat pump?

Ground source heat pumps use pipes buried in the ground to extract heat. Beneath the surface, the ground stays at a relatively constant temperature, therefore ground source heat pumps can be used to provide heating throughout the year, even in winter. The heat generated by a ground source heat pump is usually used to warm water for radiators or underfloor heating systems in your home. It can also be used to pre-heat water before it goes into a more conventional boiler.

Are ground source heat pumps expensive?

Ground source heat pumps can be expensive to install due to the groundworks involved with fitting a ground loop. Ground loops are pipe systems buried under ground, usually in your garden, that circulates a mixture of water and antifreeze to transfer heat. It doesn't have to be particularly large, but the ground needs to be suitable for digging a trench or a borehole and accessible to digging machinery is important.

Does a ground source heat pump provide the same heat as a boiler?

No, as with air source heat pumps, a ground source heat pump produces less heat than traditional boilers. An essential consideration prior to installation is whether your home is insulated and draught proofed well, if it isn't a ground source heat pump won't provide an effective heating system for your home.