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Domestic Hot Water
Solar hot water systems are most
commonly used to heat water for basic household needs such as laundry,
bathing, dishwashing and cooking. Domestic hot water systems
typically use solar energy to pre-heat the water that is incoming to a
conventionally fueled heating tank. The warmer the water from the
solar heater, the less conventional fuel will be needed to provide the
household's hot water needs. A properly sized solar hot water system
in Central Oregon will provide up to 80% of a household's hot water
needs.
The size (and total area) of the solar
collectors suitable for your site will depend upon your hot water
usage and location, typically they will require between 40 and 80
square feet of collection area. The most common mounting technique
used today is to install the collectors flush with the roof on a south
facing exposure. Alternatives, such as ground mounting, or rack
mounting on gable ends are also sometimes possible.
Radiant Floor and Space
Heating
The same set of solar collectors can be
used to provide hot water for both domestic hot water heating needs,
although heating needs will generally require a much greater collector
area and storage capacity. Additional controls and heat exchangers
are also needed. Due to these extra costs, and because sunshine is
relatively scarce when heating loads are highest (for example at night
and during the winter) solar energy should be looked at augmenting the
total heating loads. You should also make sure to carefully
consider passive solar and other building efficiency measures that
will reduce your heating loads to help you take maximum advantage of
the available solar resource.
Pool Heating
Solar heaters
are often the most economical way to heat a swimming pool. Compared
to conventional pool heaters using propane, electricity or oil, solar
pool heating systems can pay for themselves in four years or less. If
you currently don't heat your pool, a solar heating system can provide
an economical way to extend your pool season, starting earlier in the
spring and extending later into the fall.
Snow Melt Systems
A DayStar snow melting and ground
temperature control system provides a safe, reliable, economical
alternative to snow removal and frost control. These systems can
be used on driveways, sidewalks and streets, parking ramps, airplane
hangars and loading docks, athletic fields and recreational
facilities, anywhere snow and ice are seasonal hazards. |
