Abstract: A solar collector (1) is provided from plastics material sheets. There is a base part (3) and a first covering (5) overlying the base part (3). A first chamber (9) exists between the base part (3) and the first covering (5). The sheets are scaled at their side edges. The surface of the base part (5) that faces internally of the first chamber is heat absorbing to assist solar energy absorption into the first chamber (9). The first chamber (9) is supplied with a positive pressure air from a fan or blower and inflates the collector. The air is, in turn, heated by solar energy absorbed and can be used to heat water or other liquids directly within the collector (1) or the heated air can be taken from the collector (1) and used for heating. In a variation a second covering (7) overlies the first covering (5) and provides a second chamber (11) which is also inflated with positive pressure air. A method of obtaining drinkable/potable water using the solar collector is also disclosed.