How to Use Water Storage for Solar Heat Gain

The sun is a powerful heat source, yet most of us allow this energy to dissipate. Thermal mass provides an inexpensive, non-mechanical, low-maintenance way to store the sun's heat. Build your own heat reservoir in your living room by using thermal storage tubes and water, which act as thermal mass. These storage tubes range from 4 to 10 feet high with diameters of 12 to 18 inches. That's a lot of water, which equals a lot of free heat.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fiberglass, UV-resistant thermal storage tubes
• Water
• Dye
• Tin snips
• Straps (optional)

1. Choose an area with direct sunlight. Thermal tubes diffuse sunlight throughout window-lined living spaces. This diffusion provides a unique ambience and is worth considering.

2. Determine the height of each tube. If necessary, trim the tubes with tin snips to create the desired effect.

3. Fill the tubes with water. Tap water is just as good a thermal mass as any other.

4. Add dye to the water. The darker the water, the more light and heat the thermal mass will absorb.

5. Measure and add anti-algae chemicals such as copper sulfate to the thermal storage tube according to manufacturer specifications. Bleach and chlorine dissolve dye and are not recommended.

6. Cap the tube with the lid supplied by the manufacturer.

Tips & Warnings

• For more effective heating and cooling, measure the square footage of the area you wish to heat. This information is helpful when choosing the size and quantity of thermal storage tubes.
• Most thermal storage tubes are self-supporting when filled. You may wish to provide support with a box or a strap if necessary. Water is heavy. Ensure your floor can withstand increased weight.

References

• DIY: Thermal Storage Tubes
• The Natural Home Building Source

Resources

• Natural Home Heating: The Complete Guide to Renewable Energy Options
• Water Tube Design and Function