How to Plan and Install Solar Thermal Systems
Solar thermal systems heat water in your home using the energy given from the sun. A solar thermal system heats the water and stores it in an insulated water tank until it is used. A major incentive is overall lower energy cost and tax deductions allowed for the upgrade. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates the average family can save about 50% on their water heating bill with such a system. Planning for a new system involves assessing the site, the amount of water needed, local climate and the space available. Solar professionals in your area are your best resource for help with planning and installing the new system. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Asses the proposed site for your solar system. Choose a site that has plenty of sunlight for most of the day. Consult with a local solar thermal planning installer if you need help selecting a site.
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Calculate the amount of area needed for the solar collector. To begin, two people living in the home will need about 20 square feet of space. For each additional person in the home, add 8 square feet if you live in the southern states or 12 square feet if you live in the northern region of the country.
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Determine the size of holding tank needed for your system. A storage tank around 50 gallons is enough for two people while four people may need a tank over 80 gallons.
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Track your water usage for a week. Write down any water using habits including dishwasher, showers, laundry and pools. This will be helpful when you talk to a solar dealer to make sure you have enough hot water for your individual habits.
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Check with your Home Owner's Association (HOA) for any restrictions involving adding a solar heating system. Also contact your city and state municipality about any laws that need to be considered prior to installation.
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Contact a licensed contractor that is certified to install new solar thermal systems to consult on the project. Serious concerns of exceeding the roof load and appropriate building permits should be brought up before starting construction.
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Install your system using only licensed and insured contractors. Since there are so many legal issues and safety concerns, it is best to have a team of professionals install the system.
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Tips & Warnings
Using a licensed contractor means that the work done will be insured for quality in craftsmanship.
Contact a local solar dealer for help in assessing the amount of sun available at your location.
Talk with your tax professional to discuss possible tax savings from your clean energy upgrade.
Not making a water withdrawal from the system for a few days may cause the system to overheat.
Pipes may crack in areas of extreme cold weather.
Improper insulation can cause the system to become less efficient over time.
References
- Photo Credit photo Solar energy image by Aleksandar Radovanovic from Fotolia.com
