Home & Garden

Solar hot water heating is commonly used as a heat source for radiant floor systems. A large solar heated storage tank supplies hot water to the radiant heat system, and often times provides for a homes domestic needs as well. Solar hot water heaters will interface well with radiantly heated floors; this is due to the large thermal mass common to radiant systems, which provides an excellent storage unit for the energy generated during the day.

At night, a solar heater will slowly release its stored thermal energy into the living space, helping to maintain a consistent comfort level. Solar hot water heating isnt as steep in price as many people think. In fact, a highly effective system, which includes two panels, mounting hardware, solar EPK, heat exchanger, all Tekmar controls, valves and gauges–everything except the storage tank–will come in well under $3,000.

The Benefits of Solar Hot Water Heating
Even if a solar hot water heating system may seem too steep for some folks, the realization is that it will continue to be effective long after youre through making the payments. Environmental benefits are another reason people are drawn to a solar hot water system. Theyre cleaner and more fuel efficient, which is especially good news considering the soaring cost of fuel.

In the deserts of Americas Southwest, two solar panels can provide enough hot water to supply up to 98% of all domestic hot water and space heating requirements. Northern tier states may require four. The point is your initial investment will pay off greatly over time, and you can feel good knowing that youre relying less on environmental deterrents.