A free database of system designs by solar expert Rod Hyat
Before you get to the exciting part, you’ll need a few basic details about your system. Here are some good questions about the correct sizing for an expansion tank from a for the conscientious installer — which I know includes all of us. Question 1: Fill pressure vs. expansion tank size? (Or in other words, […]
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As you get ready to design a solar thermal system for your home, there’s one factor you may not be considering that could make a bucket load of difference: What’s the beginning temperature of the water you’ll be heating?In the United States’ northern climes, it’s likely 50°. In warmer, more southern climates, you’re likely beginning […]
Read moreOther posts have discussed light commercial systems for restaurants and other similar businesses. But what if you need a solar thermal system with a bit more uumph? Here’s the recipe for a solar hot water system that would be perfect for, say, apartment buildings or hotels. It provides 330 gallons of hot water per hour, […]
Read moreI’m asked, more and more, to provide a solar hot water system design for light commercial systems. There is, indeed, an effective and simple design template for smaller commercial systems that need to heat up to 330 gallons of water per hour or less. The actual system this template is based on is for a […]
Read morePressure or drainback? That’s probably the question I get asked more than any other: Should I choose the more popular pressure-glycol system, or go with a drainback system? Here’s the answer: It depends. Don’t you hate that kind of answer? Well, here’s a more specific answer: If the slope of the collectors and plumbing is […]
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Here’s a new concept for commercial solar: a 250,000-Btu tankless water heater. It comes down to this simple philosophy: Don’t pay to heat ’til you need it. As you study this concept illustration, you’ll realize how simple this is. And, when you compare this setup to a conventional design, the cost will be half. back-up. […]
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Today, as part of our ongoing series of basic solar designs, we look at a drainback system using an efficient solar storage tank and a tankless water heater as backup. This design is fairly uncomplicated and is, perhaps, the least costly system for residential applications. For all its simplicity, it delivers freeze and overheat protection […]
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Out with the old (over complicated, expensive solar). In with the new (better and more efficient solar at lower cost). Case in point: the Minneapolis- St. Paul international Airport’s cutting-edge solar thermal system with a new innovative design approach. Two decades ago, conventional solar called for installing a water heater or, for larger systems, a […]
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