With global gas prices on the up everyone wants to cut their fuel bill.  Potential money savings, along with the fear of global warming means that many people welcome the idea of using solar energy to heat their homes and provide their hot water. 

But be cautious, just like double glazing fever decades ago, companies are springing up to jump on the alternative energy bandwagon and some pushy solar energy salesmen are giving renewable energy a bad name.  Misleading claims about energy savings, promises of big savings if you sign your installation contract on the spot, and other pressure sales techniques have resulted in hundreds of complaints from unhappy customers of certain solar water heating systems installation companies.

Trading Standards advises people to be very careful before agreeing a contract with any company making claims of huge savings.  If you think that the energy saving claims are too good to be true, you can get impartial advice on the realistic savings from your region?s Energy Efficiency Advice Centre or the Energy Efficiency Trust.  Also, make sure that you shop around to get the best value for money.  There is a list of accredited UK installers on the Low Carbon Buildings website - along with details about any grants that might be available to you.  Also worth checking our is the Solar Trade Association website, www.greenenergy.org.uk, to find other retailers near you.

Solar water heating systems can provide a significant percentage of your hot water during the summer months and make a moderate contribution the year round so really can reduce impact on the environment.  Money savings are also possible, but it can take many years before you see payback.  So, just like any high-cost purchase; get all the facts and double check the facts before you sign on the dotted line??............

Technorati tags:  solar heating solar power energy efficiency

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Eric B said:

Useful article – seems that there are a few cowboys out there giving the solar heating industry a bad name – don’t let these put you off – there are a few good ones out there, but make sure that you do your home work before taking the plunge.

October 12, 2006

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