We are blessed with Solar Energy in abundance at no cost. The solar radiation incident on the
surface of the earth can be conveniently utilized for the benefit of human society. One of the
popular devices that harness the solar energy is solar hot water system (SHWS). A solar water heater consists of a collector to collect solar energy and an insulated storage tank
to store hot water. The solar en
ergy incident on the absorber panel coated with selected coating
transfers the hat to the riser pipes underneath the absorber panel. The water passing through the risers get heated up and is delivered the storage tank. The recirculation
of the same water through absorber panel in the collector raises the temperature to 80
C (Maximum) in a good sunny day. The total system with solar collector, storage tank and
pipelines is called solar hot water system. Solar water heating is now a mature technology. Wide spread utilization of solar water heaters
can reduce a significant portion of the conventional energy being used for heating water in
homes, factories and other commercial and institutional establishments. Salient Features of Solar Water Heating System:
-Solar Hot Water System turns cold water into hot water with the help of sun’s rays.
-Around 60 deg. – 80 deg. C temperature can be attained depending on solar radiation, weather conditions and solar collector system efficiency
-Hot water for homes, hostels, hotels, hospitals, restaurants, dairies, industries etc.
-Can be installed on roof-tops, building terrace and open ground where there is no shading,
south orientation of collectors and over-head tank above SWH system
-SWH system generates hot water on clear sunny days (maximum), partially clouded
(moderate) but not in rainy or heavy overcast day
-Stainless Steel is used for small tanks whereas Mild Steel tanks with anticorrosion coating
inside are used for large tanks
-Solar water heaters (SWHs) of 100-300 litres capacity are suited for domestic application.
-Larger systems can be used in restaurants, guest houses, hotels, hospitals, industries etc.