Solar heating systems allow either buildings or water to become heated through the renewable source of solar energy. These systems are often used instead of oils because of the increase in heating oil prices. When the heating oil reserves shrink, the prices of these fuels become more expensive, increasing the price of oils, whereas solar heating systems are renewable since the sun is the power source.
Solar heating systems are comprised of solar collectors, which absorb and store solar energy in order to heat an air or a fluid. The heated substance can then transfer the solar heat directly to heat a building, water, or a swimming pool.
Solar Heating: Buildings
Using a solar heating system to heat your building can consist of either a passive system or an active system. Passive systems use the warmth of the sun through specialized design features, including
large windows and floors which can absorb the warmth. These systems are typically not as expensive or complex as active systems. Active systems use collectors to absorb solar energy and combine it with electric fans in order to distribute the solar heat.
Solar Heating: Water
Solar heating used to heat water reduces the need for conventional water heating by a large majority. By minimizing the amount of electricity needed to heat the water, solar heating for water reduces electricity expenses. There are two main parts of a solar heating system for water: a solar collector and a storage tank. The solar collectors absorb the solar energy from the sun rays and direct the energy to the water in the storage tank.
Similarly to the solar heating for your building, the solar water heaters can either be active or passive. Active solar heating systems rely on electric pumps and controllers to circulate the water through collectors. They use either a direct- or indirect-circulation system in order to send water through the collectors. Indirect-circulation systems are typically either antifreeze or drainback systems, with drainback systems being the best choice for colder climates. The passive solar heating systems rely on gravity and water’s natural ability to circulate. These systems are more reliable than active systems since they contain no electrical components and are easier to maintain. Homeowners should shop around by contacting local
home remodeling contractors and receiving quotes of different solar water heaters and heating systems.
Solar Heating: Pools
Another option for solar heating is to use solar heating systems to heat the water for
swimming pools and spas. In this solar heating system, the current pool filtration system pumps the water through the solar collector. The collected heat is then transferred to the pool water. There are different types of solar collectors available for purchase and use, but some have restrictions based on climate. Glazed, or glass-covered, solar collectors are not typically used outdoors; instead they are used for indoor pools and spas in colder climates.
The solar heating for pool water is generally used to extend the swimming season from only summer to spring and fall as well. This allows the homeowner to use the swimming pool even when the seasons change and the weather becomes cooler. Although the solar heating system for swimming pools can be expensive, it is important to keep in mind that you will be extending the amount of time you will be able to use the swimming pool. If you live in a state where you experience a cooler spring and fall and you love to use your swimming pool, you may want to consider this solar heating system in order to enjoy your pool outside of the summer months.
With the cost of fossil fuels rising and constant increases in your electric bill, converting to solar heating systems to heat your home, water, and swimming pool water may be an option for you. The initial costs of
implementing the new systems will be great; however, you will notice a dramatic decline in your upcoming electric bills. Before installing a solar heating system, you should determine if a passive or active system is the best option for you, as well as if your climate would make a difference on the system. Remember that solar energy will stick around and remain renewable, but the lifetime of fossil fuels is limited.