As more people are looking for ways to reduce bills as well as reducing their impact on the environment, renewable energy is gaining more popularity. With technology advancing, there are lots of ways to create green energy in your own home. Here are some of the most popular…
Summary
Air source heat pumps: These systems extract heat from the outside air to warm your home and water, even when temperatures drop below zero, and can be used with underfloor heating. Solar panels: These generate electricity from daylight and do not require direct sunshine. Batteries: These store the electricity generated by solar panels so that it can be used at a later time. Biomass boilers: These are a less common option that burn natural materials to provide heating as opposed to gas.
Air Source Heat Pumps
Air source heat pumps are becoming more and more popular in the UK. They don’t generate heat but they actually capture warm air from the outside and turn it into heating for your home and also hot water. This isn’t something that only works on a warm day. they work in cold weather too, even if temperatures dip below zero so you don’t need to worry about what to do in the winter!
They work very well with underfloor heating too if this is something that you have or you are considering having.
Solar Panels
Solar panels are another very popular form of renewable energy. Solar panels are installed on the roof in most cases, and they capture the light from the sun and convert it into electricity. Again, you do not need it to be a sunny day for them to work, and you can also store energy with solar battery storage. If you are considering solar panels, make sure you get them installed by an experienced professional like this Dorset solar panels company.
Biomass Boilers
A biomass boiler is a lesser-known form of renewable energy. Biomass systems generate heat for your home by burning natural materials rather than gas. Biomass is a great alternative to typical gas heating for a more environmentally friendly home.
FAQs
Do I need planning permission for solar panels?
The installation of most types of rooftop solar energy systems for houses in England is permitted development, usually not requiring planning permission. However, special provisions apply to listed buildings and properties in conservation areas. It is best to check with the local planning authority if either applies to you.
Is there help with the cost of a heat pump?
In England and Wales, a grant is available through the government’s Boiler Upgrade Scheme to help install a heat pump to replace an existing heating system powered by a fossil fuel. The current grant amount and eligibility rules are published on GOV.UK, and application is normally made by the installer for you.
Will a heat pump work with my existing radiators?
Typically a heat pump will run at lower water temperatures than a gas boiler, so in some instances larger radiators or improved insulation may be required to keep the property comfortable. A good installer will be able to assess each room prior to installation and advise accordingly. Draughty windows make a difference too, so see our guide on what to consider when having your windows replaced.
What fuel does a biomass boiler use?
The majority of biomass boilers burn wood pellets, wood chips or logs. These boilers require dry fuel storage and some models need to be topped up by hand. Where the fuel will be stored can be a consideration when choosing a biomass boiler.