PV Gap

Edward Said:

Do you know any small designs for heating water, using solar power?

We Answered:

Fundamentally, a solar water heater consists of the following parts: a solar collector - converts solar radiation into useable heat
a heat exchanger or pump module - transfers the heat from the solar collector into the water
storage tank - to store the heated water

Go to Home Depot and ask for a heat exchanger or pump module for water. After you know how many volts you need to generate, go to Radio Shack and buy a small solar panel. You should make sure that your pump and your photo voltaic cell correspond in terms of amperage, as well.

You can use virtually any large container to store the water. You should buy one that is insulated though. A large thermos container will do just fine. You can find those at any camping store - they might have them at Home Depot.

There is a great site for all things solar powered:
http://www.sunpowerpro.com

Rachel Said:

I want to install a solar powered heating element in my hot water tank?

We Answered:

The technology to convert solar power to electricity to heat water is very inefficient. Solar photovoltaic panels are expensive. You should think about using solar panels to heat water then circulate that through your hot water heater. There are dozens of firms in your town who can install a solar water system for you. If you are good at plumbing you can probably do this yourself.

This might give you some information:
http://www.solarexpert.com/Heatdhw.html

Hazel Said:

What is the CO2 emission of a geothermal heat pump with solar power?

We Answered:

Assuming you do not count the CO2 emissions that are emitted during the design, fabrication, transport and installation of the system then the CO2 emissions will be zero since there is no carbon being oxidized in the actual operation of the the system you describe.

Rita Said:

solar power heating for swimming pool, PVC on roof??

We Answered:

in ground pool try this link
http://www.swimmingpoolsetc.com/solar-he…

above ground pool try this one
http://www.swimmingpoolsetc.com/solar-he…

Beverly Said:

solar power heating costs/advice?

We Answered:

Solar water heating will heat water, sure. However, you asked about solar power heating which I interpreted differently; I thought you meant solar power for heating the air inside their homes.

If this is what you meant, then there are three choices:

1. Water based solar radiant heating with liquid based tubes on the roof which would cycle down to tubes underneath their floor boards to heat the inside floors and thus the inside air
2. Solar air heaters which are placed on the roof or south facing wall of the home and would collect air from inside the home, use the sun to heat it and then recycle it back inside the home
3. Electricity based solar radient heating with solar PV panels on the roof connected to radiant pads underneath the floor inside the home.

However, I believe neither of these three could provide heat at night (the solar air heater and water based solar radient heating for sure) so there would need to be a supplemental heating system for night and on cloudy days....perhaps a combination of 2 and 3.

As well, reduce the amount of heating needed by reducing / eliminating air leaks, increasing attic and wall insullation, and changing a few simple habits.

Shirley Said:

has anyone received a government grant for solar power heating?

We Answered:

To my knowledge, there are no "grants", but there are some new tax incentives. You'll have to come up with the cash up front or finance the job, then get the incentives next April. Check to be sure what you do and your tax status qualifies you for the incentives. Solar hot water heating is effective but you have to calculate how much hot water you require and size the system accordingly.