[QUOTE=MikeSolar;58301]The real differences start with the intended uses for the system. If you need low temp output such as DHW chances are you will get just as much heat output, per m2 gross area, even where I am in Toronto in the winter with a flat panel as a tube (note I didn't say aperture area). You need to get quite cold ambient for the tube to overtake the flat panel and many people add one or two extra tube collectors to get an even better winter performance. The problem with this is it is grossly oversized in the summer and WILL lead to a shorter lifespan and no economy because it sits at stagnation for much of the summer. Tubes need replacing, periodically because nature abhors a vacuum and they have a tendency to lose it. I have changes way more tubes than care to count and it is not, as yet, a long term solution. QUOTE]
I can only comment on what I have compared to a few friends who have flat panels. Mine outperforms them all year around. We have done comparisons and they are less than happy with what they have. This is Melbourne Australia so not as cold as Toronto I would expect.
My tubes are guarenteed for 15 years so I see no issues there. I have not had mine at stagnation more than 4 days in the whole year so I don't see an issue there either. My info is based on real data and not assumptions. We live close and have similar family size so similar water usage, similar weather, similar tank size etc etc. The difference being evacuated tube vs flat panel.
I dont represent any solar hot water supplier/installer I am just an end user. Mike, do you supply/sell solar and if so which type/brand.
I can only comment on what I have compared to a few friends who have flat panels. Mine outperforms them all year around. We have done comparisons and they are less than happy with what they have. This is Melbourne Australia so not as cold as Toronto I would expect.
My tubes are guarenteed for 15 years so I see no issues there. I have not had mine at stagnation more than 4 days in the whole year so I don't see an issue there either. My info is based on real data and not assumptions. We live close and have similar family size so similar water usage, similar weather, similar tank size etc etc. The difference being evacuated tube vs flat panel.
I dont represent any solar hot water supplier/installer I am just an end user. Mike, do you supply/sell solar and if so which type/brand.
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