How to Build Your Own Solar Water Heater at Home
Solar water heating systems may sound like a new technology to some people across the globe. However, it is an old concept that has already been around since the late 1800s. In fact, Climax solar water heater has been patented by Clarence Kemp in 1891. Until today, many homes are already using the heating system.
While there are many solar water heaters available in the market, one can build their own heating systems at the convenience of their homes. A simple solar water heater could already provide domestic hot water and space heating as well. If you are planning to create your own, you will be amazed at how the cost of a do-it-yourself heating system could be so efficient. You can even adjust the size and design of your system to meet the heating needs of your home. All the materials needed can be found in your local hardware and lumber stores. All you need is basic carpentry and a bit of plumbing knowledge – and you are ready to build your own solar water heater at home.
Set the Location
First things first – find a place where your heater will acquire maximum solar exposure. The location you choose could either make or break your heating system. Thus, make sure that you pick the best place possible with effective angle, placement and orientation. You can use solar calculators to be sure.
Another important matter to decide is where to install the heater – would it be on the ground, wall, platform or roof. The weight problem should be addressed appropriately to effectively install the heater. Generally, large solar heaters should be installed on the ground or on a platform specially built for it.
Build the Collector
One good thing about building your own collector is that you get to create it exactly the same size you need it to be with whatever available space you have. An example of a collector would include a set of vertical copper riser tubes clipped with painted aluminum fins, which absorb solar radiation and transfer the heat into the tubes. Fins can be readily purchased or can be made from aluminum sheets. Put a frame and good insulation material to finish your collector.
Choose the Storage Tank
Tanks come in various shapes and sizes. With this, determine what type of storage tank you will use for your heater. The most efficient ones are long, thin cylinders because they have the best ratio of surface area to water volume. Whether your preferable tank is new or second-hand, make sure to carefully check for leaks. The quality of your tank add to the longevity of your heating system.
Build Your Heating System to Last
Durable strong and safe – these should be the key qualities that you aim to achieve as you build your own water heating system. It should be durable enough to last for more than 20 years. The tank should be strong and safe enough to carry the water load. Moreover, size your heater appropriately, make sure that your heating system can really retain heat and make an efficient back up system.
