Solar tank and pump station-lighthouse
Solar Heating Installation…
Solar is bemoming a much more viable source to heat hot water. The cost of fuel rising and the desire to lessen our dependance on foreign fuel makes solar very desirable.
When most people think or solar …they think of PV or Photovoltaic panels. These generate electricity. These are ok but are not a good alternative for most New England homes.
Solar panels that heat hot water are Solar Thermal panels… there are two types.
> Evacuated tube- These are a relitive newcomer to solar thermal. They tend to absorb more heat due to the round shape, are easy to replace tubes if broken but at this time have a fairly high failure rate (3-5%) w/in just a few years.
> Flat Panel- These have been around since the late 60’s and there are system installed then that are still in place and working. These are what I have experience installing. I prefer the Buderus flat panels.
Solar panels-Lighthouse, Durham, NH
The system posted to the right provided a Dormatory in Durham w/ 240 gallons of hot water daily.