Solar panels aren’t just for reducing electricity bills—they can also play a role in heating your home. While many people think the UK isn’t sunny enough for solar energy, the truth is that solar technology works well across the country. In fact, over 1.5 million UK homes now have solar panels installed, proving their effectiveness in a variety of climates.
In this guide, we’ll explore how solar panels can help heat your home, the different methods available, and what it could cost to make the switch.
Can Solar Power be Used to Heat Your Home?
There are two types of solar power systems that can be used to heat your home – solar thermal systems or solar photovoltaic (PV) systems. At SolarTherm UK, we no longer install solar thermal systems due to the development of solar PV technology allowing higher efficiency meaning you can both heat and power your home using solar PV.
Solar thermal heating uses solar collectors to absorb the heat from the sun; this is then transferred into a water-based system that runs your central heating and hot water. You would need a hot water cylinder installed for this to be beneficial which if you don’t already have one can be costly and require upgrades to your plumbing system in the property.
Solar PV systems convert sunlight into electricity. The electricity generated can then be used to power electric heating systems such as underfloor heating, electric boilers or heat pumps. A solar PV system when paired with solar battery storage makes self-consumption of generated electricity easier and making it even easier to save money on your heating as well as your electricity bills.
What are the Benefits of Using Solar Power to Heat Your Home?
As with the benefits for using solar energy to power your home, the main benefit is lower energy bills. If you are looking to move away from reliance on fossil fuels energy, solar is the most affordable renewable source. By using your solar to heat your home you are also further reducing your carbon footprint and supporting a greener, healthier future. If you pair your solar panels with a heat pump, EV charger and electric boiler, you will future-proof your home and improve your home’s EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating.
What Systems Work Best with Solar Heating?
To make the most of solar heating, your solar PV system can be paired with additional green upgrades to your home, such as an air-source heat pump, electric boiler, underfloor heating or a hot water cylinder.
Is Solar Heating Right for You?
Before installation, it is best to discuss your energy goals with your installer. At SolarTherm UK, if you are looking to heat your home using solar, we will design a system that generates enough electricity to cover the additional power usage. You also need to check that your home is suitable for solar energy – does your roof get plenty of sunlight? If you are looking to replace a gas boiler you need to ensure the system you install is suitable for an all-electric home.
Get Expert Advice and Installation
At SolarTherm UK, we specialise in custom-designed solar solutions for heating and power. Whether you’re interested in solar thermal, PV panels, or battery storage, our MCS-certified team will guide you through every step—from design to installation.
