Solar preheat on a combi

[Scott_D]

I have just been to quote to replace this 837 combi with a boiler and unvented
(5 bed 3 bathroom house )
While trying to trace the pipework to get a 22mm cold I found a cylinder in a loft space connected to solar panels.
The cylinder is hot and the pump is running but it only gives a like warm pre heated cold supply to the boiler.

They have just moved in so don’t know if it ever worked.

The boiler is a mess and needs replacing.
Would a combi with working solar preheat ever be good enough for a 3 bathroom house?
Can solar preheat be used on an unvented?
I have no experience with solar so would only be able to quote to disconnect and install a standard boiler/cylinder

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Wouldn’t expect it did much maybe in summer would do 2 bathrooms but middle of winter no would quote for a boiler and unvented

 

[Knappers]

I would be contacting manufacturers for info.
As said its will still have same drawbacks as normal combi even if just in winter.
Would be a shame not to use it if its in good condition but could still be used for supply to unvented cylinder (space permitting)

 

[Scott_D]

It doesn’t seem to be working.
It’s a sunny day here and the cylinder was hit but it wasn’t letting out much heat.

I guess it would need a specialist to decommission?

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Depends if your removing the panels as well then no

 

[Scott_D]

Depends if your removing the panels as well then no

I would t touch the panels but guess it’s filled with glycol or other chemicals

 

[ShaunCorbs]

I would t touch the panels but guess it’s filled with glycol or other chemicals

be glycol and water but could be just water depending on age

 

[Scott_D]

It has a filling loop connected to the mains

 

[ShaunCorbs]

Are you planning on removing the panels?

 

[Scott_D]

Are you planning on removing the panels?

No.
I am quoting for a system boiler and unvented.
Would be good to clear the loft of tank and pipework but I wouldn’t touch the panels.
Not sure if I can drain it and chop the pipes or if it needs a pro to decommission.

 

[ShaunCorbs]

If your removing the panels just drain and chop ideally if your removing part of the system the panels need to come off as well