When I first heard about thermodynamic solar panels, I was intrigued. The idea of a system that could provide hot water using both solar energy and ambient air sounded ideal—especially considering how gloomy UK winters can be. After researching several providers, I chose Mak Energy to install their thermodynamic heating solution. Over the past several months, I’ve had a chance to really evaluate how it performs. Here’s my honest review.

To set the stage: a <b><a href="https://makenergy.com/thermodynamic-panels-the-definitive-guide/">Thermodynamic Solar Panel</a></b> uses a panel (collector) that captures heat from the air and solar radiation. It uses a small compressor/heat pump component to boost that heat, which then heats water stored in a cylinder. Unlike standard solar thermal panels, thermodynamic systems can work even in low-light conditions, making them more consistent in climates with less direct sunshine.

A few key things led me to choose Mak Energy:

Their experience: they had good testimonials and several completed installations in climates similar to mine.

Quality of components: Mak Energy uses collectors and cylinders with strong insulation, solid warranties, and backup support.

Transparency in cost and expected performance: from the get-go, they provided estimates of what the thermodynamic panels might produce even in winter, and how much I could save in energy.

After-sales care: knowing how heating systems tend to need tweaks or maintenance, I liked that Mak Energy promised follow-ups and support.

The installation was smoother than I expected. Mak Energy’s team did a full site assessment first — they checked roof angles, shade, space, and my usage of hot water — this helped them size the system appropriately.

Installation took about one full day. The collector panel was mounted on the roof, piping was well insulated, the compressor unit installed close to the cylinder, and all electrical connections done neatly. They tested everything, then showed me how to monitor the system, set the thermostat, etc.

Here’s what I’ve found after several months of use:

What works well:

Even on overcast or partly cloudy days, the system provides warm water reliably. I no longer rely heavily on the electric booster as often as before.

On sunny days, performance is excellent, and heating is faster than with my old electric geyser.

Because the panel also draws heat from air, mornings feel warmer faster than traditional solar thermal alone.

The system is fairly quiet — the compressor doesn’t make much noise, and overall it feels well-built.

What is more challenging:

Very cold, dark winter days still require a backup. The system slows down when ambient temperature is very low.

There is a lag: water doesn’t reach peak temperature as fast as during bright sunny spells. So expectations need to be realistic.

Maintenance is minimal so far, but things like dust or grime on the panel, or ensuring the compressor is clean, seem important.

The initial outlay was higher than a standard solar thermal or electric geyser — the price of the collector, compressor, insulated cylinder, and installation all added up.

However, Mak Energy estimated, and actual usage suggests, that savings on electricity bills are substantial. Fewer kilowatt-hours used for water heating, especially during the sunnier months.

Based on my usage, I expect the system to recoup its cost within five to seven years, factoring in lower running costs. After that, it’s mostly savings.

One of the strongest points of dealing with Mak Energy has been their continued support. After the system was installed:

They came back for a follow-up to ensure everything was working as predicted.

They responded quickly to questions (such as what to do if the water isn’t as hot, or how to fine-tune setup) with clear guidance.

All components came with good warranty coverage, and they provided guidance on maintenance tasks I should do to keep the system performing optimally.

Overall, my experience with thermodynamic solar panels from Mak Energy has been very positive. It’s not a perfect system (no renewable solution is), but in terms of comfort, energy savings, and year-round hot water, it performs better than anything I’ve used before in similar climate conditions.

If you’re considering something more advanced than solar thermal, and you want reliability even during low-sun days, thermodynamic solar panels are worth looking into. Just be sure to work with a good installer like Mak Energy, get realistic expectations, and understand maintenance needs.

For me, the investment has already started to pay off — in savings, comfort, and peace of mind.