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For information on sizing a solar DHW system
Home Power has a great article published a couple of years back.
Quote, 'While most people are captivated by the high-tech nature of solar-electric (photovoltaic; PV) systems, in most cases, a solar hot water system will harvest more energy at a substantially lower cost. In fact, compared to PVs, solar domestic hot water (SDHW) collectors are more than three times as efficient at producing energy from the sun.'
This month I am having to use the electric backup on my hot water system most days - plenty of clouds. Most likely I will be able to turn of power to the heating element sometime in March - when the daily insolation levels exceed 2 kW/m2/day.
In a new build a person is missing a real opportunity is they don't max out on passive solar and the such. Electric costs will rise - one of the things we can feel assured of.
Russ
Home Power has a great article published a couple of years back.
Quote, 'While most people are captivated by the high-tech nature of solar-electric (photovoltaic; PV) systems, in most cases, a solar hot water system will harvest more energy at a substantially lower cost. In fact, compared to PVs, solar domestic hot water (SDHW) collectors are more than three times as efficient at producing energy from the sun.'
This month I am having to use the electric backup on my hot water system most days - plenty of clouds. Most likely I will be able to turn of power to the heating element sometime in March - when the daily insolation levels exceed 2 kW/m2/day.
In a new build a person is missing a real opportunity is they don't max out on passive solar and the such. Electric costs will rise - one of the things we can feel assured of.
Russ
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