TDFM Solar Ltd
Foster Suite, Century Park
Station Road, Sheffield S20 3GS
If you need more information or would like us to answer some questions please simply fill in the form below and we will call you back.
Q) Will my roof be able to stand the additional weight of the panels?
A) A member of our installation team will carry out a structural survey prior to installation to ensure that your roof can cope with the weight of the panels. It is however extremely unlikely that your roof will not be strong enough for the panels.
Q) Will my roof or tiles be damaged during installation?A) All of our installers are MCS accredited and fully qualified to fit the panels to your roof. They also have extensive roof-work experience. However, in the very unlikely event that any part of your roof was damaged during installation, TDFM Solar would of course pay for any repairs required.
Q) Do I have to switch the panels on?
A) No, the panels are always operational during daylight hours.
Q) Will I require planning permission?
A) It is extremely unlikely that planning permission will be required. The vast majority of solar installations do not require permission, however we will be able to confirm this during our quotation. If any permission is required TDFM Solar will do all we can to help you through the process.
Q) Do the panels make any noise?
A) No, the panels have no moving parts and are completely soundless.
Q) Do the panels require any maintenance?
A) Maintenance required is negligible, however TDFM Solar offer service contracts and one off visits should you require them.
Q) Will my electricity supply be disrupted during the installation?
A) The electricity supply will need to be isolated for about twenty minutes whilst the electrician connects the system to your house. Other than this there will be no electrical disruption.
Q) Will I have to change my electricity supplier?
A) No, the main electrical suppliers are legally bound to purchase any excess electricity you produce, so you are free to use any supplier you wish.
Q) Will I still receive an electricity bill?
A) Yes, because you will still be using some grid electricity during night time periods or if you are using a lot of appliances at the same time. Your electricity bill will however be significantly reduced.
Q) How will I know which electrical supply I am using in my home? Do the panels supply certain areas of the house and grid electricity others?
A) The PV panels will supply your house with all electricity until such time as demand outstrips supply, at which time grid electricity will be called upon to top up the system.
Q) Will my electrical supply be as strong? Can I still use my appliances as frequently as before?
A) You will not notice any change in your electrical supply. If you are using a lot of electricity at any one time, grid electricity will be used to meet the demands.
Q) Are there any grants available?
A) Usually no, as PV systems are now covered by the Feed-in Tariffs. However in certain cases grants are available. TDFM Solar can advise you of these during the quotation.
Q) How long does it take to install the system?
A) Solar thermal systems take roughly two days due to the need to install and plumb in the new heating cylinder.
Q) Do solar thermal systems produce hot water in the winter?
A) Yes, your solar system should still operate during winter months, however your conventional heating system is likely to have to top up the hot water more than during summer months. During summer months your hot water supply will normally be free.
Q) Do solar thermal systems produce hot water on a cloudy/overcast day?
A) Yes. As during winter, your boiler might have to top the temperature up, but the panels should still produce some hot water.
Q) Does it matter what type of water heating I have at the moment?
A) Most conventional boiler and hot water cylinder systems are compatible with solar water heating, however if your boiler is a combination boiler (combi) and you don't currently have a hot water tank then a solar hot water system may not be compatible.
Q) Will I require room for a water cylinder?
A) Yes, solar thermal systems require a water cylinder.
Q) When can I benefit from the Renewable Heat Incentive?
A) The Renewable Heat Incentive is due to be launched in June 2012, however it is likely that any systems installed between now and that point should still be retrospectively covered. For more information visit the Department of Energy and Climate Change website, www.decc.gov.uk.
Q) Are there any grants available?
A) All grants were scrapped in April 2010, however they are soon to be replaced by the Renewable Heat Incentive, and all installations fitted from now on will qualify for the RHI when it starts in June 2012.