What to use - Oil v Gas (optional Solar Panels)

mohawk30_2

Hi Everyone,

We are new to this forum and we would be most grateful for some advice on domestic energy.

We (a family of 3) are about to move as I am disabled and a wheelchair user, in my 50’s and on DLA, and having to move to a bungalow in Cambs.

The issue we have is:

The bungalow is oil at present (boiler looks quite old and tank looks as if leaking somewhat)

No gas in bungalow but cost of laying it into property is £1400 plus we’d need to purchase a gas boiler etc.

We think there is a hidden fire grate in the lounge and a chimney, my wife would like an open log fire.

We would consider 4kw solar panels perhaps including hot water panels but cost as far as we know is around £18000. We would need to borrow the funds to pay for this, and need to calculate if this is cost effective. Using the £1500 income from the feed in tariffs to pay for them plus the free elec in the day.

We also need loft insulation and cavity wall insulation as a matter of urgency perhaps via a grant.

Our main concern is:

Is it worth spending £18000 on solar panels for the Feed in Tarrif & free daytime elec considering the cost of borrowing.

Does using an immersion heater in the daytime to boost temp of the hot water during periods of low sunlight work out economical, allowing us to use the oil or gas CH only in the cold months.

Should we move over to gas from oil? Either with solar panels or as sole energy source if we can’t install solar panels.

Essentially, we would be grateful for any advice or tips as to the most cost effective solution.

Many thank,

Mohawk :beer:

savemoney

Dont get an open fire very higher inefficient most of the heat goes up the chimney, If you want a fire go for a multi burner or one that use wood pellets. They can be expensive to have installed ie assuming chimney needs lining around 3k + for fitting and have a multi burner not sure on costs of a wood pellet one.