Introduction
These systems use heat from the sun working with a conventional secondary water heating system to provide domestic hot water.

System Types:

1. Flat plate collector

   This system uses an absorber plate with a transparent cover and is insulated from behind to prevent heat loss. The heat is transferred to liquid via pipes lying along the plate within the colletor. This system is simple and robust.

2. Evacuated tube collector

   This system uses tubes of a thermast type, an inner and outer glass tube which are sealed together at the top and bottom creating and enclosed vacuum layer. Convection loses are almost eradicated in the vacuum tubes making this type of system more efficient than flat plate.

Benefits of Solar Energy
A solar thermal system can provide most of your hot water needs during the summer months, or approximately 60% of your hot water needs throughout the year (figures depend on geographic position).