'HeatStation' Thermal Water Heater
Save up to 70% off your hot water bill. ![]()
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Call 020 8539 4707 for a free, no obligation site survey.
Be kind to the environment and your pocket
As a sleek and unobtrusive solar water heater, the 'HeatStation' is a surprisingly easy way to incoporate the use solar energy into everyday life. 'HeatStation' is a solar evacuated tube system that may sit on an external wall or roof and provide domestic or commercial hot water.
The cost of a fully installed system ranges from £3 000 for a single panel system and an extra £1 000 for every subsequent additional panel. If you choose self-installation, the HeatStation will cost £2 090- £6 390.
Once installed a 'HeatStation' costs nothing to run and can add up to £10 000 to the value of your home (over 3 times the cost of a single systems).
Come rain or shine, our 25-year-warrantied system continues to collect heat as well as stroing what it has already collected. Just as well with our great British weather.
'HeatStation'
- How it works
- Ticked Boxes
- Case Studies
- Support
- Performance
- Technical Information
- Tubes vs Plates
- Swimming Pools
- FAQs
- Pumps
- The Trade
Work the 'HeatStation' Work
Solar energy penetrates the glass of the thermal evacuted tube. The air has been evacuated from the tube to form a vacuum, preventing loss of heat.

Inside the glass tube is rod with a dark specially selected coating that is designed to absorb maximum solar energy.

The solar energy is then absorbed by this coating.

Once absorbed, the energy is trapped inside the tube by the vacuum.

The unique aluminium heat-sink transfers the trapped energy to the advanced internal manifold, directly heating the transfer fluid.
The heated fluid is pumped around a closed system through the coil within the solar hot water cylinder or a heat exchanger fitted to your existing tank.

This transfers heat in into the surrounding water in your tank.

The cooled fluid then returns to the tubes though the pumping station and is reheated as part of the continual process. This process produces 50%-70% of your hot water.
'HeatStation' Thermal Water Heater: Ticked Boxes
Environmentally Friendly
[√] Lower your Carbon Footprint by reducing your annual carbon emissions by over ½ tonne (Energy Saving Trust).
Save money and energy, and guard your wealth
[√] Save up to 70% of your hot water bill by reducing your fuel consumption by the same amount. On these savings alone you should see a payback period of 6-10 years.
[√] Our systems could increase the value of your home by up to 9% (Guardian Newspaper Online), acting as an investment.
[√] Your free hot water will act as a buffer against future rising fuel costs.
[√] Small businesses can get monetary support in the form of grants and loans (please see the relevant tab).
Better all year round performance
[√] The selective low emissivity material 3600 around the tube means that maximum solar energy can be absorbed at all times from all angles. This alone makes the 'HeatStation's' evacuated tubes more efficient than flat panels and solar mats/pipes.
[√] The ‘HeatStation’ is specially designed for cooler climates such as the UK's. This means it does not need direct sunlight or high temperatures to give a great performance.
[√] Components used in manufacture are specifically designed for long life, reliability and low maintenance. The ‘HeatStation’ will also extend the life of your current boiler.
UK manufactured
[√] Realistic costs- 'HeatStation' is, we believe, the best in its class and affordably priced. Solar UK’s local manufacture means that distribution costs are minimised, giving a truly competitive price to the end consumer.
Easy installation
[√] Each syshtem is accompanied by a simple yet robust roof fixing kit that may be used to fit the system horizontally (roof position) or vertically (wall position) without any loss of efficiency. Solar UK can design bespoke fittings.
We can be trusted
[√] Each 'HeatStation' system has a full 25 year warranty. The ongoing reliability of the construction of the 'HeatStation' should ensure its life for many years above and beyond this period.
[√] Using specifically sourced components, 'HeatStation' is manufactured at Solar UK's own dedicated facilities in Kent.
[√] Solar UK's systems and factory are fully accredited as are our installers, who are specially trained.
Grants, Loans and Support
LOANS
The Carbon Trust- www.carbontrust.co.uk
WHAT IS IT?
The Carbon Trust is an independent, non-profit organisation set up by the Government, with support from businesses, to encourage and promote the development of low carbon technologies.
HOW CAN THEY HELP?
They can loan small to medium private businesses the money to purchase low carbon technologies such as a 'HeatStation'.
The money is paid back through the savings you make by using the new technology.
In 2009 they had £100 million to spend on loans.
CAN THEY GIVE ME A LOAN?
As long as you have a private business that is more that 12 months old you should be eligible for a loan. Examples of such businesses are restaurants, spas, private schools, nursing homes and golf clulbs.
If you are a franchise then you will still be eligible for a loan as long as there is one party that pays the energy bills. The party that pays is the party that will save.
THE LOAN
The interest-free, unsecured loan is offered against your predicted savings with the minimum loan offer being £5000.
You may get a loan for any product from any supplier providing that it is a 'green' technology and the saving can be justified.
There is no administration fee before the loan is issued nor over the 1-4 year pay-back period.
The amount to be payed back each year will amount to how much you are saving each year.
CAN I HAVE A LOAN AND A GRANT?
The Carbon Trust allows this although some grants (including local ones) do not.
Please call us on: 020 8539 4707 for more advice.
Performance
A family of 2

Using water at the average consumption rate

With a standard tank size

And a single 12 tube collector plate (panel)

Will have 70% of their hot water needs provided for.
Fuel bills will reduce themselves accordingly.
(A family of four, following the same assumptions will achieve the same supply with two 12 tube collector plates (panels)).
+ An auxiliary hot water system (electricity, oil or gas) is required to top up the hot water supply in winter and at night.
+ Our evacuated tubes are ideally suited to the UK climate and consistently outperform flat panel systems.
With its simplified and highly effective engineering, the ET 1200 DF consistently delivers a performance that at least matches other evacuated tube systems of a similar high quality and at a price that makes it truly affordable to the end consumer.
'HeatStation' Thermal Water Heater: Technical Information
A single collector panel of the 'HeatStation' (1m2) can produce up to 839 kw/ hour.
The right size 'HeatStation' for you depends upon the primary usage and hot much hot water your household currently uses
Below is a table for the 'HeatStation' containing its technical information.
Please call us on: 020 8539 4707 if you have any further questions or would like to install one of these systems.
The Technical Specifications of a single 'HeatStation' collector panel (1m2)
| DIMENSIONS: |
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| TYPE | Fixed panel, direct water | |
| ABSORBER AREA (m2) | 0.80 | |
| APERTURE AREA (m2) | 0.93 | |
| GROSS AREA (m2) | 1.35 | |
| TOTAL LENGTH (mm) | 2110 | |
| TOTAL WIDTH (mm) | 615 | |
| TOTAL DEPTH (mm) | 104 (Manifold 113) | |
| TOTAL WEIGHT (kg) | 43 | |
| TUBE DIAMETER (mm) | 58 | |
| TUBE LENGTH (mm) | 1960 | |
| GENERAL: | ||
| OP. PRESSURE (bar) | <4 | |
| DESIGN LIFE | >25 years | |
| VACUUM TUBE | High-Borosilicate Glass | |
| VACUUM | P = 5 x 10-3 Pa | |
| TUBE STRENGTH | Tested to withstand a 25mm hailstone. | |
| ABSORBER | AL-N / AL | |
| EFFICIENCY | > 93% (optimum) | |
| TUBE WARRANTY | 25 years | |
| EN/ BS STANDARD | EN12975 | |
A Table to Display the Ways in Which Energy is Transmitted in Typical Modern Vacuum Tubes and Flate Plates

A Graph to Display the Efficiency of Typical Modern Solar Panels Gaining Energy at Different Temperatures Above Ambient

A Graph to Display the Amount of Hot Water Required Annual vs the Various Contributions of Different Systems

'HeatStation' Solar Water Heater: Tubes vs Plates
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Evacuated Heat Pipe Tubes Vs Flat Plate Solar Panels
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| Flat Plate Solar Panels | Evacuated Heat Pipe Tubes | |
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Heat loss protection: The collector is placed in a casing and covered with a glass shield. Heat loss has been known to occur from the air gap between the absorber and the cover pane of the flat plate. |
Heat loss protection: The collector is hermetically sealed inside an evacuated glass tube, therefore eliminating heat loss and protecting the collector. |
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Performance: Flat plate solar systems have been established for longer and are cheaper. |
Performance: Evacuated tubes are more efficient and are ideal for climates like those of the UK, as they are unaffected by air temperature or wind-chill. |
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Installation: Flat panels may be either mounted on to the roof or integrated into the roof |
Installation: The glass tubes absorb the sun's heat energy at a perpendicular angle, no matter what position the sun is at. Thus relatively adept at accepting most installation angles. |
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'HeatStation': Swimming Pools
A 'HeatStation' is the perfect way to heat your swimming pool.
It cuts down on the massive expense of heating your pool throughout the year.
The typical costs (excluding grants) for fully installed 'HeatStation' solar pool heating system are:

[√] 10m² to 20m² Pool: £6,420-£8,270
[√] 20m² to 30m² Pool: £7,220-£12,240
[√] 30m² to 40m² Pool: £10,140-£14,310
[√] 40m² to 50m² Pool: £12,240-£18,050
[√] 50m² to 60m² Pool: £16,730-£19,950
[√] 60m² to 70m² Pool: £16,730-£21,560
[√] 70m² to 80m² Pool: £19,950-£25,990
These costs include 5% VAT but exclude any grants that may be available. The cost varies depending on the location, use and desired temperature of the pool. Costs for new build properties will typically be lower.
As well as arranging a free site survey, we will be able to estimate the actual final cost to within £500.
Call us on: 020 8539 4707.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.) Will they work in the UK during winter?
2. What happens if something goes wrong?
3. How long is the payback period?
4. Why are solar tubes better than panels?
5. The tubes are supposed to be “green” but where are they made?
6. Will I ever have to go without power?
7. Isn’t solar power expensive?
8. How much will the tubes cost to maintain?
9. How long will it take to get one?
10. How much does my hot water bill contribute to my overall energy bill?
11. Are ThermalEmpower Solar Water Heaters user-friendly?
12. How long will the system last for?
13. Can I still have this system if I have a combination boiler?
14. How noticeable are the tubes?
15. How much roof space is required?
16. Could I have the tubes on a flat roof?
17. Will I need planning permission?
Question: Will they work in the UK during winter?
Answer: The HeatStation is ideal for cooler climates such as the UK, as they are unaffected by air temperature or wind chill. This means it does not need direct sunlight or high temperatures to give a great performance.
Question: What happens if something goes wrong?
Answer: All HeatStations have been designed for a minimum period of 25 years without loss of performance, however should something go wrong you will be happy to know that all HeatStations have a 25 year warranty.
Question: How long is the payback period?
Answer: The HeatStation can reduce your hot water bill by up to 70% and on these savings alone you should see a payback period of 6-10 years.
Question: Why are solar tubes better than panels?
Answer: Solar tubes are considered to be the more efficient than solar panels. The tubes absorb the sun's heat energy at a perpendicular angle, so no matter what position the sun is, the solar tube system is still able to collect more energy than a solar panel system. Solar tubes also do not experience the heat loss problems associated with solar panels and are unaffected by air temperature and therefore can operate in cooler climates.
The tubes are supposed to be “green” but where are they made?
Answer: All components have been specifically sourced for the highest quality. The 'HeatStation' is manufactured at Solar UK's own dedicated facilities in Kent.
Will I ever have to go without power?
Answer: The HeatStation should be able to provide between 50% and 70% of the annual domestic hot water demand, however during the middle of winter the system will typically provide 20%-30% of the hot water demand and should therefore depend on the domestic heating system.
Answer: The HeatStation is one of the best in its class and affordably priced. The initial start up cost can be high, but once installed a 'HeatStation' will cost nothing to run and can add up to £10 000 to the value of your home (over 3 times the cost of a single systems).
How much will the tubes cost to maintain?
Answer: The HeatStation will require very little maintenance, all that is needed to ensure optimum performance is regular checks of the solar fluid levels, the controller and circulator. While it is highly unlikely damage to be caused to the tubes, in the event you may need to replace a tube we are able to supply you with a replacement that is competively priced.
How long will it take to get one?
Answer: Itdoesthejob.com can supply a HeatStation within
How much does my hot water bill contribute to my overall energy bill?
Answer: Most people underestimate their hot water usage. In an average household, around 85% of energy consumption is used in water and space heating. Baths, showers, hot water drawn from a tap and hot-fill washing machines can contribute up to 25% of your overall heating bill.
Are ThermalEmpower Solar Water Heaters user-friendly?
Answer: The HeatStation is very user friendly.
How long will the system last for?
Answer: The HeatStation has been designed for a life expectancy of a minimum of 25 years with no loss of performance.
Can I still have this system if I have a combination boiler?
Answer: Yes. If you have the space to install a hot water cylinder (including a loft) then the HeatStation will be able to be installed.
Answer: The sleek and compact design of the HeatStation along with an all-black anodised aluminium frame means minimum visual impact, whilst the unique manifold-end allows all unsightly pipes, insulation and cables to be completely hidden from view.
How much roof space is required?
Answer: Depending on the number of panels being installed a minimum area of 615 mm x 2110 mm will be required
Could I have the tubes on a flat roof?
Answer: Yes, flat roof mounting frames are available. The HeatStation will still need to be positioned at a 30˚ angle.
Will I need planning Permission?
Answer: Planning permission is normally not required as solar panel installation generally falls under permitted development. However if you live in a conservation area or the building is listed, you should contact your local planning office.
'HeatStation' Solar Water Heater: Pumps (Circulation Modules)
Please call us if you have any questions, or would like to arrange a free site survey, on: 020 8539 4707.
A Circulation Module is the ‘heart’ of a solar water heating system and comes with a 5 year warranty. It incorporates the components required for the pumping and management of the system’s heat transfer solution.
'HeatStation's' Circulation Modules have been designed to dramatically reduce the amount of work required when installing sealed and pressurised solar thermal systems.
Each Circulation Module incorporates the following components:
[√] Pressure Gauge – Indicates the pressure within the system and monitors fluid content. The pressure fluctuates as the water in the system heats up and cools down.
[√] Flow Meter – Indicates the flow rate of water within the solar hot water system.
[√] Pump - The system incorporates a pump to circulate the heat transfer solution around the system.
[√] Expansion Vessel - The expansion vessel allows for changes in the volume of the water inside the system. These changes occur naturally with cooling and heating.
[√] Filling Loop – For connection to a mains-water supply, filling-bottle or pressurization pump for adding water, anti-freeze an/or pre-mixed heat transfer solution to the system.
[√] One-way Valve – The valve prevents thermo-siphoning during cold periods. A bypass tap allows easy filling and draining of the system.
Our standard range of 'HeatStation' Circulation Modules is designed for use in systems with a flow rate of up to 15-litres/minute.
We can manufacture bespoke and commercial circulation modules to order.
These modules can be used in systems with flow rates of 15-litres/minute to 150-litres/minute. The following additional components can be built into our bespoke modules:
[√] Flow Sensors
[√] Pressure Sensors
[√] Dosing Pots
[√] Safety Relief Valves
[√] Air & Dirt Separators
[√] Isolation Valves
[√] Standby Pumps
'HeatStation' Trade Page
We have an experienced and dedicated team of installers around the country.
If you are interested in becoming part of our team please give us a call on: 020 8539 4707.
We would also like to hear from you if you if you are an architect and are interested in using the 'HeatStation throughout you buildings.





