The future's sunny for family homes

When Mr and Mrs Barnett found the home of their dreams in a Warwickshire village, they wanted to extend it to house their growing family and also future proof it by installing low carbon technologies.

A large extension was being added, which presented the perfect opportunity to fit a solar thermal domestic hot water system. They chose Coventry installer, Simon Dunnett, who established Solutions Renewable Energy Ltd, to carry out the installation.

Simon explains: “The south facing roof of the extension is the perfect site for the solar collectors. We installed two Potterton in-roof collectors during the roof refurbishment, and by using original roof tiles over the flashing kit, the roof is completely sealed and looks good.

“The solar pump station and solar controller are fitted in the garage, along with a 300 litre Santon PremierPlus Solar unvented cylinder. We have also installed a Potterton Promax System 24 HE Plus boiler for the home’s heating system and to provide supplementary hot water.”

“We knew that once we had got the house how we wanted it, we would need much more hot water,” continues Mrs Barnett. “With a new family bathroom, two shower rooms and a utility room, the cost to heat all the extra water would be a major consideration.

“We looked at various alternatives, but solar was the obvious choice – and we are pleased to be able to reduce our environmental impact into the bargain. We had heard of Simon, and knew he was experienced in solar installation. He gave us really good advice and told us how we could get the best out of the system. We are delighted with the professional finish.”

Potterton Solar is a complete package that includes either in-roof or on-roof flat plate solar collectors, pre-wired hydraulic pump station, solar controller, solar heat transfer fluid, expansion vessel, domestic hot water blending valve, insulated flexible stainless steel connection hose and all the accessories and fittings needed to complete the installation. East/West array kits are also available for homes that are not south-facing, so that maximum solar gains can be achieved. Potterton Solar can deliver up to 100 per cent of domestic hot water during the summer and around 55 per cent annually. For more information visit potterton.co.uk/solar.

Solutions Renewable Energy has twenty years of experience in the renewable energy field, designing and installing solar hot water and small wind systems. It is developing an expertise in ground source heat pumps and solar photovoltaics. It is Clearskies accredited so its customers can be eligible for a Government grant. Visit solutions-renewable-energy.co.uk for more information.