Liquid Based Solar Heating

Solar energy is the wave of the future. World-wide, more and more homes are converting to solar energy; and researchers are working hard to make solar energy more competitive and affordable. A fairly inexpensive and simple way to at least incorporate a little solar energy into your home is through the use of a liquid based space heating system.

Solar thermal space heating can be either an active or passive process. In this article, we are going to focus on the active form of liquid based space heating. In passive systems liquid, such as water, is heated in barrels by sunlight absorbed by solar glass or plastic. The heat warms the water over time, and then the water can be transferred to desired applications. The active form of heating involves the assistance of special equipment; namely a collector and fan or blower.

For a liquid based active solar heating system for residential use, you would probably want a flat-plate collector. There are two other types of collectors available, the evacuated tube and concentrating collector, but both are overkill for residential purposes. The flat-plate collector has a special glass or plastic top that absorbs the sun’s rays and then heats water or anti-freeze stored in canisters within the collector. A pump circulates the fluid through the collector and then distributes it to a storage tank for future use.

Liquid-based systems can be used for hot water, a central air system, or a radiant floor system. All require additional piping or pumps according to the desired purpose. It is possible to install these systems in more than one location throughout your house. These systems work well as supplements to your existing energy sources, and can go a long way in saving on your energy bill. Request free estimates from a prescreened solar installers in your area today to see what solar options work best for your home.

Liquid based Space Heating