Solar Hot Water Systems
Evacuated Tubes - How do they operate?
The collection tube is comprised of a heat pipe which runs up the middle of an absorption plate. This pipe is a tube containing a liquid which boils at low temperatures (e.g. alcohol) therefore evaporating quickly when hot. The heat generated is collected in a copper condenser.
From the condenser the heat flows to a water pipe at the top of the panel. A number of tubes are joined forming a solar collector.
The absorption plate which runs down the middle centre of a glass tube is evacuated much like a vacuum flask.
In this vacuum, conduction and convection and consequently heat loss are reduced. This system loses less heat than flat plate systems.
An electronic management system continually monitors the temperature of the solar collectors comparing it with the temperature of the water in the tank.
Each time the temperature in the collectors is higher than the tank, the controller engages the system's circulation pump. A mix of water and antifreeze is then passed through the collection system and the tank's heat exchanger, heating the cylinder in same manner as a traditional central heating boiler.
Flat Plate Collectors - How do they operate?
These systems are utilised for Active solar Heating systems for homes and other types of premises.
For a family of four, an effective Active Solar Heating system will generate between 2,500kWh and 3,000kWh, which is equivalent to 60% to 70% of the homes water heating requirements. Cost savings depend on the type of energy displaced and the positioning of the panel.
The diagram below shows a typical Active Solar Heating installation. An electronic management system continually monitors the temperature of the solar collectors comparing it with the temperature of the water in the tank.
Each time the temperature in the collectors is higher than the tank, the controller engages the system's circulation pump. A mix of water and antifreeze is then passed through the collection system and the tank's heat exchanger, heating the cylinder in same manner as a traditional central heating boiler.
A family of 4 people would require:
- Approximately 3m² of evacuated tube collector.
- A double indirect tank for household hot water.
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