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Passive solar water heaters-Almost to good to be true
Building passive solar water heaters can be a project the whole family can get involved in
Passive solar water heaters have a much longer life expectancy than active systems. They operate through gravity and the natural tendency for heated water to circulate. Because of their simplicity they are relatively maintenance free operating without the use of electrical components.The two most popular types of passive solar water heaters are the Integral-collector storage system and the Thermosyphon system.
Integral-collector solar water storage systems are generally made up of one or more storage tanks inside a box with a black interior that is well insulated and covered with a sheet of glass that faces the southern sun.
Ideally suited for areas where the temperature seldom rises to the freezing point. These types of passive solar water heaters are good for households that use the majority of their hot water in the daytime and evening hours. Due to the loss of collected energy over the time frame of night they do not lend themselves well to early morning hot water needs.
Thermosyphon systems are easily incorporated into new homes and are reliable and economical. In these systems the tank is located above the collector and relies on the natural tendency of rising warm water to circulate through the collectors and into the tank. As the sun heats the water in the collector it will rise into the tank due to the heated water being lighter than the cooler water. The cooler water through a natural tendency will flow down the pipes to the lower areas of the solar collector, improving the circulation.
Storage tanks can be placed in the attic, effectively hiding it from view. In climates where there are prolonged days of freezing weather indirect thermosyphons may be used with well insulated pipes in well protected spaces. Food grade antifreeze can be used in the collector loop.
Building passive solar water heaters can be a project the whole family can get involved in. CLICK HERE to learn more about solar water and discover some fail proof plans to guide you through the extremely simple building process.
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Passive solar water heaters-Almost to good to be true