Solar Photo Voltaic (PV) - Frequently Asked Questions

Who are Dyson Insulations?

Dyson Insulations are a leading national installer of insulation, heating solutions and renewable technologies. With local depots in Brighouse, Gateshead, Manchester, Birmingham and Northampton, we provide national coverage for our services.

Why choose Dyson Insulations?

Here at Dyson Insulations, we set the standards. We are dedicated to providing an excellent service to our customers.

We guarantee our customers an impeccable service from start to finish. From the moment we take your enquiry to the completion of your installation and beyond.

What are the lifetimes of PV products?

Solar modules have a manufacturer’s performance warranty of 25 years, and a working lifetime of 40 years and beyond. Modules of all types usually have a 25 years warranty, as do most thin-film integrated products.

Does the glazed front reflect light away from solar photovoltaic (PV) modules?

Not really, no. Solar PV modules constructed with a glass front have two characteristics that reduce light reflection. In order to optimise electrical yield the glass is treated with an anti-reflective coating which greatly increases the transmittance through the glass to maximise the amount of light reaching the solar cells.

Secondly, the outer face of the glass has a slight granular texture. The result is a matt like finish rather than mirrored surface which again maximises yield. These two characteristics greatly reduce reflection from the glazed front face of solar PV modules when compared with conventional glazing.

What are the effects of shade?

Shading is critical. Minor shading can result in significant loss of energy. This is because the cell with the lowest illumination determines the operating current of the series string in which it is connected. Many modern modules use bypass diodes to minimise shade effects, but these effects must still be considered, preferably in the first stages of building design.

How is the angle of optimum panel inclination found for different latitudes within the U.K?

The maximum total annual solar radiation is usually at an orientation due south, and at a tilt from the horizontal equal to the latitude of the site minus approximately 20 degrees. For example, 30 degrees is an optimal tilt in Southern England, increasing to almost 40 degrees in Northern Scotland. Our site survey will determine what your angle is.

How do the panels perform at different angles and orientation?

If the optimum angle is not achievable, over 90% of the maximum annual energy can still be achieved at 10 degrees and 50 degree tilts. South-facing vertical facades generate around 70% of the maximum.

 

 

What sort of projects are suitable for solar installations?

A project with a brief incorporating social and technical innovation is an ideal candidate for building-integrated PV (BIPV). The most important aspect to consider is the location of the site. The solar installation must receive as much light as possible. Shadows cast by tall trees and neighbouring buildings must be kept in mind during the design process. The best location for solar PV is obviously on the south-facing roof or side of a building.

Planning Consent

It is a requirement to contact your local planning authority and advise them of your intention to install a solar electric system. In many cases the installation will be considered a Permitted Development, however planning permission may be required.

Insurance

Our advice with reference to your building insurance is that you do need to inform your insurers. The addition of a solar PV system should be viewed as a “material fact”, and policyholders have a duty to inform insurance companies about “material facts”.

Warranties

Your solar PV system will have the following manufacturers performance warranties:

• 25 years solar PV performance warranty.
• 5 years inverter warranty.
• Installation warranty.

The Moral Issue

As global warming increases we all have a moral duty to help the environment.

Who are Dyson?

Dyson Insulations are a leading national installer of insulation, heating solutions

and renewable technologies. With depots around the country, we provide national coverage for our services.

Why choose Dyson Insulations?

Here at Dyson Insulations, we set the standards.

We are dedicated to providing an excellent service to our customers.

We guarantee our customers an impeccable service from start to finish. From the moment we take your enquiry to the completion of your installation and beyond.