Solar Thermal: Is It Worth It for UK Homes?
Most of us are used to heating our water with a gas boiler or, increasingly, heat pumps. But if you’re looking for a renewable heating option to reduce your bills and your carbon footprint, it might be time to consider solar thermal.
So, what is solar thermal, and how does solar thermal work? Is it really viable in the UK? And can it actually save you money?
In this blog, we’ll break down the basics of solar thermal energy, explain how it compares to other heating systems, and explore whether it’s a smart investment for your home — especially when paired with energy-efficient upgrades like heat pumps or boiler replacements (which, by the way, KD Jones Heating Engineers offers with 0% finance).
What is solar thermal?
Solar thermal is a form of low carbon heating that uses energy from the sun to heat your water. Unlike solar PV (which generates electricity), solar thermal panels use the sun’s rays to generate heat, directly warming fluid that then transfers into your hot water cylinder.
The result: hot water for your taps, showers, and kitchen sink, powered by a clean and free energy source.
How does solar thermal work?
A typical setup includes:
- A solar thermal collector (usually on your roof)
- Insulated pipes filled with a heat transfer fluid
- A hot water cylinder with a dedicated coil
- A backup heating source (like a combi boiler or air source heat pump) for cloudy days
When sunlight hits the solar thermal panels (often evacuated tubes or flat plate collectors) it heats the fluid, which flows into the coil inside your water tank. This transfers heat into your domestic supply.
On sunny days, solar thermal can meet 60–70% of your hot water needs. It can even contribute in the winter, reducing the load on your boiler or heat pump.
Is solar thermal worth it in the UK?
Yes, especially when designed as part of a well-planned heating system.
Despite our reputation for grey skies, the UK receives enough sunlight to make solar thermal viable. In fact, solar thermal energy works on light, not heat, so even chilly but bright days can still generate heat.
Benefits include:
- Lower energy bills, especially if you use a lot of hot water
- Smaller carbon footprint
- Long lifespan (panels typically last 20+ years)
- Works well with heat pumps and boiler systems
If you're asking “is solar thermal worth it in the UK?”, the answer is a qualified yes: provided your roof gets good sun, you have space for a hot water cylinder, and your current system is compatible.
Is solar thermal zero carbon?
Not quite — but it’s close. The system uses thermal energy from the sun, which is clean and renewable. There’s a small carbon impact during manufacturing and installation, but once running, the emissions are negligible.
So if you’re trying to reduce your reliance on natural gas, or already have a low carbon heating system in place, solar thermal is an excellent complementary technology.
Can it replace a boiler?
Not entirely. Solar thermal panels only heat water; they don’t provide central heating, and they don’t work at night. You’ll still need a boiler or heat pump for backup, especially in winter.
That said, reducing how often your boiler fires up can extend its lifespan, save energy, and cut bills. If your current boiler is struggling or inefficient, now might be the right time to replace it, and with our 0% boiler finance options, you can spread the cost interest-free.
What’s the installation process?
We’ll survey your home, assess roof suitability and orientation, and check that your existing hot water cylinder or system can support solar thermal. We then design and install a tailored solution to match your property and usage needs.
And if you’re upgrading other elements, like switching to a heat pump or replacing a combi, we’ll make sure everything integrates seamlessly.
Think solar thermal might be right for you?
Whether you’re renovating, planning an extension, or just want to lower your bills and go greener, solar thermal is well worth exploring.
📞 Call us on 01737 211376
🌐 Visit our contact page to request a quote online
📍 Based in Redhill, we cover homes across Surrey and the surrounding areas
And if you’re combining your solar upgrade with a boiler replacement, don’t forget: we offer 0% boiler finance to help you invest in your home without the upfront cost.
FAQs
1. What is solar thermal energy?
Solar thermal energy is energy from the sun used to heat water directly, rather than generate electricity.
2. How does solar thermal work?
Solar collectors heat fluid that runs through a coil in your hot water cylinder, warming your domestic water supply.
3. Can solar thermal fully replace my boiler?
No, it only heats water, not your home. You’ll still need a boiler or heat pump as backup.
4. Is solar thermal worth it in the UK?
Yes, especially if your roof has good sun exposure and you use a lot of hot water.
5. How is solar thermal different from solar PV?
Solar PV creates electricity. Solar thermal generates heat to warm your water.
6. Do I need a new cylinder to install solar thermal?
Possibly; we’ll assess your current system and advise whether a compatible hot water cylinder is needed.