Solar Water Heating

Solar Systems, also known as Domestic Water Heaters, are generally made up of three major components. The Solar Collectors, the Storage Tank and the Circulation system.

· The Solar Collectors are insulated , weatherproof boxes with a black absorber plate and either a glass or plastic covering.

· The Storage Tank is a water heater that has an additional inlet and outlet for circulation to the collector. The tanks are generally 50-120 Gallons

· The Circulating System consists of a pump, control box (either photovoltaic or electric) and the pipes running to and from the collector.

There are Two Basic Types of Solar Systems.

An Open Loop System and a Closed Loop System.

Closed Loop Systems are used in colder climates where freezing is a concern. Antifreeze is used to transport heat between the tank and collector. The antifreeze flows through the solar pipes that are exposed to freezing conditions. The antifreeze will not freeze and expand and therefore will not break the pipes or collector.

Open Loop Systems are most commonly used in southern areas that freeze once or twice a year like in the sunshine State of Florida. Floridians benefit from great performance as well as from a lower price tag for this type of system.

Sizing The most common Solar Water Heating System consist of one (1) 4’ x 10’ Solar Collector, one (1) 80 Gallon storage tank, and a circulating system. This provides enough hot water for a family of four. Other sizes are available for larger families or greater hot water demand.