Thermomax keeps on shining
- One of Ireland's longest operating solar systems is still performing -
One of Kingspan Solar's longest-running Thermomax systems is still delivering outstanding results and benefits for its owner Roci Allan after 19 years. Installed in Enniskillen in 1990 when Mr Allan designed a new home for his mother and secondary office for his architectural practise, the system was pioneering for its time. Roci's belief in the benefits of solar technology has paid off and for the last decade has been experiencing free hot water, all-year-round, thanks to the unique payback advantages of his initial investment.
An architect by profession, Roci has been intrigued by alternative technologies since college. Whilst developing the initial designs for the building, Roci was determined to incorporate a system that would deliver on performance, have fast payback, be cost-effective and that was easy to install. Through some initial research into available eco-technologies, he settled on solar vacuum tubes as the way forward.
Roci explains: "Solar technology was, and still is, the most comprehensive renewable energy source and was only one of few systems that were readily available in 1990. There was very little information available in Ireland at this time, but I had read an article on 'new' vacuum tubes that were manufactured and exported from Northern Ireland. After further research, I discovered that the distributor was Thermomax, who sent an engineer along to discuss my options for incorporating the product into the building design.
"Almost 19 years on, the system still stands the test of time, despite our turbulent Irish weather. The 20-tube Thermomax collector is like new, requires very little maintenance, and is still just as efficient and economical as it was when installed."
The award-winning Thermomax solar thermal vacuum tube collectors are perfectly placed to meet today's Part L requirements, supplying up to 70% of users' annual hot water needs. They provide the mandatory renewable input of 10kWh/m²/annum contributing to domestic hot water heating, space heating or cooling. Equally as suitable for retro fitting, the unique 'plug and play' design makes installation quick and easy. Aesthetically pleasing, the Thermomax system is the perfect renewable energy source for innovative developments.
Roci continues, "I am extremely pleased with the effectiveness of the system. Installation was very smooth, taking just under two days. Plus the Thermomax system paid for itself within ten years and I am now enjoying hot water at no cost. As an architect, I highly recommend this system and always encourage my clients to consider alternative technology. I have first-hand knowledge of its effectiveness and know how easy it is to incorporate into the design of any building either domestic or commercial."
The Thermomax brand is now owned and manufactured in Ireland by Kingspan Renewables, under the Kingspan Solar range. It ensures the most effective transfer of solar energy into heat, being 30% more effective than flat plate collectors. Plus it's designed and manufactured for the Irish weather and still performs well on overcast days when flat panels actually radiate heat and lose energy.
Thermomax collectors have developed over the years and are now part of Kingspan Solar's range of all encompassing solar systems which can be tailored to users' requirements. With the installation of any Kingspan Solar product, a full service package is offered including bespoke design, technical advice, training and sales support. The quality of the Kingspan Solar product is paramount and differentiates it from inferior products, produced in the Far East.
Kingspan Renewables has recently made further improvements to its Thermomax system, including advancements to the Snap Disc technology. The technology - which limits temperature to 135 degrees centigrade - is now even more robust and reliable, and efficiency has improved by over 3.5%.
With a nationwide network of Kingspan Solar Accredited Installers, that have each met specific requirements for workmanship, homeowners can have the added peace of mind that their system will be installed to the highest standard. The Thermomax system comes with a five year warranty and when installed by a Kingspan Solar Accredited Installer, this is doubled to ten years, with the installer's workmanship guaranteed for 12 months.
To find out more information on Kingspan Renewables, its world-leading Thermomax system, the Kingspan Solar Accredited Installer Network or Kingspan Solar's extensive product range, please call the sales hotline on ROI 1800 812 718 or NI 0800 328 5689. Alternatively click www.kingspansolar.com.
