PV Gap

Danny Said:

Where can I find solar collectors for heating water and not spend a fortune?

We Answered:

If your handy you can make them. They are just boxes painted black covered with Plexiglas, with flexible plastic tubing. You need to feed into hot water heater and drain in winter if you have freezes.

Kristin Said:

Now, Does anyone have simple-to-follow plans of a solar collector for heating water?

We Answered:

Here you go:
http://www.jc-solarhomes.com/how_to.htm
and for knowledge:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solar_colle…
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/solar/sh_bas…
and for parts:
http://www.solec.org/
http://www.cleardomesolar.com/
Good luck.

Clayton Said:

why is solar water heating the best way to heat water?

We Answered:

Solar Water Heaters are a simple and cost effective way of harnessing the sun's free energy. Solar hot water systems supply an average 80-90% of a household annual water heating needs. With nearly 1/3 of the average electric bill devoted to heating water, a solar hot water system is the best choice and smart investment you can make for your house and for the environment.

Luis Said:

Solar heating to make hot water?

We Answered:

Your question seems to ask not what colors work best but why they work best.

The more sunlight a color absorbs the better and the more is reflected the less efficient the heater is.

So black and dark colors should work best and white and light colors should do poorly.

Having reflectors to concentrate the heat energy at the point of heating is also a consideration. Captive air (or a vacuum) around the heated material also helps hold the heat once it is captured.

The diference between plastic pipe or metal pipe is not a big factor in the efficiency of a solar heater. The conductivity of the pipe is a small consideration in the over all heat transfer. Maybe that should be one of the experiements you should do as a part of your project. Determine the difference between the two materials.

Jonathan Said:

whats the best hot water heating system gas, solar or *******?

We Answered:

Well, actually, hot water doesn't need to be heated. If you want to make water hot, this depends entirely on where you live.

Sunny place like Colorado? I had a solar water heater and it was great. Wouldn't work so well in a place where a lot of days were overcast.

Gas. Not as efficient, believe it or not, as electricity, but it is more readily available and, thus, cheaper. Check with your local power company for comparisons between gas and electric prices because they vary from state to state.

Overall cheapest? Usually gas. Greenest? Solar. Most energy efficient? Electricity.

Your choice. For more info, contact your local power company and consult neighbors.