Domestic Solar FAQs

Do you offer grants on installed systems?

Yes, Fair Energy is a Microgeneration Certified Installer and domestic customers who install solar systems with us are eligible for a £400 grant from the Low Carbon Building Programme, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria. For up to date information call us on 0845 126 6555.

How long will installation take?

Installation usually takes 1 or 2 days. Our engineers will arrive with all necessary materials and equipment to install and commission the system.

Is my property suitable?

For a domestic system you will need 3-4 square metres of southeast to southwest facing roof receiving direct sunlight for the main part of the day. On east/west facing roofs we are able to fit a 2 panel east-west configured system.

Panels can be fitted to most types of roof, including pitched, flat or curved.

If there are any large trees or buildings that overshadow the roof then your property may not be suitable.

Do I need planning permission?

You do not normally need planning permission in England, however if your property is a Listed Building or within a Conservation Area or World Heritage Site then you may need permission. In this case we recommend calling your local Building Control office to check.

Will I need to change my cylinder?

You do not necessarily have to change your existing cylinder. We are able to use a special valve to make use of your current cylinder. However, for cylinders more than 10 years old we prefer to fit a new cylinder to provide greater efficiency and to avoid issues with old plumbing connections.

Does the system need any maintenance?

Systems generally require very little maintenance, a yearly check by the householder and a more detailed check by a professional installer every 3 years is generally sufficient. We have a range of service packages available and please contact us for more information.

What guarantees will I receive?

You will receive a 10 year comprehensive limited warranty for the panels and a 3 year warranty for all other parts and labour.

How does the solar system work?

Solar hot water heating is very simple and uses very few moving parts. Solar hot water systems collect energy from the sun’s rays using a series of copper heat pipes located within evacuated glass tubes and positioned in a south east to south west facing location. Liquid in the system pipe-work is heated and circulated through a solar coil in the base of the hot water cylinder through which heat is transferred to the stored water, which can then be drawn off at the taps. The temperature in the collector is constantly monitored by a solar controller and compared with the temperature in the cylinder so that when the temperature in the collector exceeds the cylinder temperature, the pump is activated to circulate the hot water from the panel. In winter months, when the days are shorter and the sun’s rays less intense the useable energy is still significant but much reduced. This means that an additional heating source such as an immersion element or a conventional boiler is still necessary.