Top 10 Best Solar Hot Water Kits July 2012
If you’re thinking about, “going green,” interested in alternative energy, or, “going off-the-grid,” check out this…
1. 30 Tube Split Solar Water Heater Collector
Price: $1,099.00
- 30 Vacuum tubes
- Copper Heat pipes
- For Closed loop systems
- Includes 10 spare tubes for breakage insurance
- Manifold + mounting gear for flat roofs or ground and slanted rooves
This solar water heater is primarily used with a water storage tank which has a built-in heat exchanger and backup electrical or gas heating for cloudy days. A working station is used to accommodate for pressure changes and to pump the fluid from the collector to the heat exchanger inside the tank when the collector has a hotter temperature than the water in the bottom of your tank. Water is heated when the hot fluid is pumped through the tank. A mixture of water / propylene glycol can be used for the heating fluid to allow for use year-round (no freezing problems). An air vent should also be installed the prevent breakage of the lines in case of boiling and to help rid of air during use.
2. Gulf Stream Solar Kits for a Large Family (5+ people) – Large Family – Zone 1 Solar Kit
Price: $2,535.00
- Simple DIY Installation with Tech Service
- Lower or Eliminate Your Water Heating Bill for a 5+ Person Family
- (6kw) Gulf Stream back-up heater, 30 tube solar collector unit and frame.
- Control panel, circulating pump
- Complete Kit – Everything Need for DIY Install
The Solar Collector The solar collector is made up of several vacuum insulated glass tubes that absorb the sun’s rays. It contains a double tube design with intricate layers of borosilicate glass, aluminum, solar filament, and copper pipes. The unit works in such a way that the glass allows light in, connecting with the solar filament yet, the insulation prevents the heat/energy (just recently captured) from being released. Specifically, it absorbs at a rate of 93% but it has a heat loss of less than 6%. The glass tubes are sealed creating a smooth, nearly seamless casing. Borosilicate glass was selected not only due to its strength but also the ability to withstand warping (in either high or low temperatures). The solar collector frame is made of sturdy anodized aluminum and specifically designed to match and hold the 15, 20 or 30 tube collector units. The adjustable frame can be mounted anywhere from a 23 degree angle to a 46 degree angle. Depending on your solar zone and which way the back of your home is situated, the angle of your solar collector may be an important factor in obtaining the optimal amount of light. Back-Up Heater by Gulf Stream A back-up heater makes sure you have hot water instantly. This 9kw back-up heater has the most accurate wattage to match the needs of a medium family. What is most unique about this particular back-up unit is that it is flow sensitive. In other words, if hot water from the solar collectors isn’t available (i.e. a dreary day), the back-up will heat only what you use not the entire tank. This flow sensing back-up heater is the latest development in solar technology, but most importantly one that saves you more money. Control Panel If the circulating pump is the heart of the system then, the control panel is the brain . It regulates the temperature sensors and activates the circulating pump to go on. This small electrical unit can be mounted on the wall and used to control the system as the homeowner dictates.
3. Sunchaser 20-tube Solar Hot Water Heater/collector Vacuum Tube
Price: $695.00
- Dimensions of evacuated tubes: 58mm(OD) x 1800 mm (Length), about 2.3″ x 72″. Dimensions of collector: 50″ (W) x 79″ (H). Weight of collector: 180lbs
- Manifold Pipe Material: Copper Heat Pipe Material: Copper Manifold Pipe size: 1″ threaded (male) Tube Material: Borosilicate Glass
- Coating of Glass Absorber: AL-N-AL, Fin: Aluminum Fin Insulation Material: Rock Wool Frame Material: 6063 Aluminum Alloy
- Manifold Casing Material: 6063 Aluminum Alloy Max Operation Pressure (Bar): 6
- Warranty: 5 Years 2 or more collectors can be connected to each other to create collectors of 32 tubes or more for more heating capacity.
Solar Water Heaters are a simple and cost effective way of harnessing the sun’s free energy. Solar hot water systems supply an average 80-90% of a household annual water heating needs. With nearly 1/3 of the average electric or more than 1/2 of gas bill devoted to heating water, a solar hot water system is the best choice and smart investment you can make for your house and for the environment. Energy savings will pay for the system in three to five years.
4. Gulf Stream Solar Kits for a Medium Family (3 to 4 people) – Medium Family – Zone 2 Solar Kit
Price: $2,205.00
- Simple DIY Installation with Tech Service
- Lower or Eliminate Your Water Heating Bill
- (6kw) Gulf Stream back-up heater, 30 tube solar collector unit and frame.
- Control panel, circulating pump
- Complete Kit – Everything Need for DIY Install
The Solar Collector The solar collector is made up of several vacuum insulated glass tubes that absorb the sun’s rays. It contains a double tube design with intricate layers of borosilicate glass, aluminum, solar filament, and copper pipes. The unit works in such a way that the glass allows light in, connecting with the solar filament yet, the insulation prevents the heat/energy (just recently captured) from being released. Specifically, it absorbs at a rate of 93% but it has a heat loss of less than 6%. The glass tubes are sealed creating a smooth, nearly seamless casing. Borosilicate glass was selected not only due to its strength but also the ability to withstand warping (in either high or low temperatures). The solar collector frame is made of sturdy anodized aluminum and specifically designed to match and hold the 15, 20 or 30 tube collector units. The adjustable frame can be mounted anywhere from a 23 degree angle to a 46 degree angle. Depending on your solar zone and which way the back of your home is situated, the angle of your solar collector may be an important factor in obtaining the optimal amount of light. Back-Up Heater by Gulf Stream A back-up heater makes sure you have hot water instantly. This 9kw back-up heater has the most accurate wattage to match the needs of a medium family. What is most unique about this particular back-up unit is that it is flow sensitive. In other words, if hot water from the solar collectors isn’t available (i.e. a dreary day), the back-up will heat only what you use not the entire tank. This flow sensing back-up heater is the latest development in solar technology, but most importantly one that saves you more money. Control Panel If the circulating pump is the heart of the system then, the control panel is the brain . It regulates the temperature sensors and activates thecirculating pump to go on. This small electrical unit can be mounted on the wall and used to control the system as the homeowner dictates.
5. SWH-1 Solar Hot Water Heating Package – DIY Solar Kits
List Price: $7,425.00
Price: $5,940.00
You Save: $1,485.00 (20%)
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50 gallon SolarStor solar water tank; incudes built in heat exchanger with 4.5 Kw Back up heating element UL & CSA certified
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PAW FlowCon C+ Wilo pump station with integrated RESOL digital controller for two heating zones
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100 of Aurora Solar Flex 3/4″ OD stainless steel piping, pre insulated and weather proof with sensor wire
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all quick connect Aurora Flex Fittings for fast installation (no soldering)
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pre-mixed ProSol LH-T high temp (475F) solar heating fluid for vacuum tube collectors
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positive displacement drill pump for filling and servicing
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25 liter (6.6g) High Temp Solar Varem Expansion tank – Specifically designed for solar heating
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Spirotech AutoClose Solar Air Vent – World’s only solar Auto Air Vent!
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complete solar installation manual and free technical support
Complete solar heating package for domestic hot water for up to 4 person. These are the most advanced solar water heating kits on the market. Simple to install with no soldering or electrical wiring required. All kits come with every component you will need to successfully install your solar heating system. Includes items such as fill pump for quick pressurization and servicing of the heating system. All kits come standard with RESOL DeltaSol Bs+ controller two relays for optional 2nd heating zone for pools, hot tubs, hydronic heating, furnaces, or boiler systems. Advanced features such as holiday mode and energy monitoring are included.
6. SolarSheat Hot Water System
Price: $7,399.99
- It can be installed with a roof mount, a standard- or below-grade wall mount
- Ductwork not included
- The SolarSheat should be installed by a licensed professional
The SolarSheat Hot Water System is an innovative dual mode solar air space heating system for the winter and a supplemental solar domestic hot water system in the summer. The SolarSheat uses household water and does not require glycol or other additives. The system uses automatic dampers and can switch between heating and hot water modes quickly. BTU Output: Max. 10,000 BTU/hour, Pressure (PSI): 40, Pipe Diameter (in.): Flexible 1/2 copper, Insulation: Minimum required R12 outdoor, R4 indoor, Tank Description: Rheem Marathon 60 Canadian, 75, 85 US gallon, CSA: OG100, CSA F379
7. 200 Liter 53 Gallon Stainless Steel Solar Hot Water Heater Tank Single Copper Coil Heat Exchanger
Price: $984.00
- Inner Tank: Food Grade SUS 304-2B, Outer Tank: Galvanized Steel 0.5 mm thickness
- Insulation: high pressure automatic polyurethane foaming layer, Density of 36 kg/m3, R-Value: 12.5
- In Tank Coil: TU1 copper (Red Copper), thickness: 1mm, Length of Coil:66 ft
- Water Ports: 3/4″ NPT, Coil Ports: 1/2″ MPT, T/P Valve/Abode Rod/Drain Port: 3/4″
Active solar water heaters utilize an antifreeze as the working fluid in the system. This fluid carries the heat collector from the sun to a tank stored in a different location. In order to exchange heat to the water within the tank, a heat exchanger is required. Our solar water tanks come with a built-in copper heat exchanger, so the working fluid can simply pass through the coil, thus heating the water inside.
Stainless Steel Tanks Are Better than Vitreous Enamel Tanks
Our tanks are made of food grade stainless steel layered with a galvanized steel shell on the outside for increased strength against high pressures. Stainless steel is superior in solar water heating applications because it can handle the very high temperatures produced by solar water heaters, has excellent corrosion resistance and can handle the constant high pressure resulting from constant heating throughout the day.
Vitreous enamel tanks are made of carbon steel and utilize a glass lining to protect the steel from corrosion. Unfortunately, these cheaper style tanks cannot handle the constant pressure in solar water heater systems. When the water temperature rises to 70°C or greater, which is typical for a solar water heater system, there is high risk of cracking of the glass lining due to excessive expansion and sticking to the carbon steel. Once cracks have formed, the carbon steel may rapidly corrode due to exposure to the water, which often results in premature failure.
Copper Heat Exchange Coils
Every tank comes with a copper coil in the bottom of the tank for heating by the solar loop. The coil extends from where the ports enter and down to the bottom of the tank so that the entire tank of water can be heated fully by the solar loop.
Dual coil tanks come with a 2nd coil installed on the top. The top coil can be used for other heat applications.
8. 400 Liter Solar Water Heater System with Electrical Backup Heating
Price: $3,850.00
- 48 Tube Solar Collector, Tube Warranty: 15 Years, Manifold: 5 Years
- 400 Liter (105 Gallon) Tank, Tank Warranty: 5 Years
- Active System
- Weather Resistent Glycol System
- Includes all needed accessories
Separated High Pressure Solar Water Heater System System Includes: 18 Tube – 58mm x 1800mm Vacuum Tube Solar Water Collector 150 Liter (40 Gallon) Solar Water Tank Working Station Air Vent 1 Gallon of Food Grade Propylene Glycol Produces Approximately 140-200 Liters of 50°C Water per day Other Recommended Accessories: Gas Heating Upgrade – Add a 2nd coil to solar water tank for gas backup heating Solar Tube Increase Upgrade – Upgrade heating power of your system to compensate for cloudy days, extra demand for water & hotter stored water. Thermostatic Mixing Valve – For prevention of scalding in case of extra storage of heat Weather Resistant Closed Loop System Collector Warranty: 5 Years Tube Warranty: 15 Years SRCC Certified – Eligibile for Government Tax Rebate ISO 9001:2000 Standard – Reg: CN00208Q10492R0M ISO 14001:2004 Standard – Reg: CN-00208E20080R0M ROHS Report – Reg: SHR0808053030F001C About the Collectors & System Some of the many uses of solar water heaters: Heat domestic home water Solar Radiant home heating Radiant floor heating Pool & jacuzzi heating Biodiesel process heating Uses heat pipes to collect heat to the water supply. This solar heater can work under high pressures and can supply hot water to high and far away places. Product model: SC58## (## = number of tubes) Use of heat pipes allows for high heat absorption efficiency and rapid heat transfer. Also allows for freeze-protection for year round use. Easy plugin-in design and installation. Corrosion resistent aluminum manifold and frame. Optional 38° frame included for ground/flat roof installation. Can withstand wind velocity of 36m/s (81 mph) Can supply hot water to both small and large tanks of water and meet small and high demands. Economical for homes, hotels, schools, domitories, hospitals and any other tall buildings.
9. Solar Water Heater 15 Tubes 30 Gallon
Price: $3,000.00
- Solar Water Heater for Swimming Pool
- Solar Water Heater for Backup Water Heater
- Water Heater for indoor and outdoor use
- Ground or Roof Installation
- Mounting not included
Patented solar water heater — 50 Gallon. 30% FEDERAL TAX CREDIT. Easy to use,20 minute can be installation Designed specifically for the United States, the world’s leading technology innovation. Double tank, Pressurized Solar Water Heater, bid with our commitment, your satisfaction. Unbeatable quality and performance, CE, Solar Key Mark, ISO 9000, ISO 14000 and CCC certified. Maintenance free, worry free for at least 15 years. Patented solar collector can produce hot water with even less than 3 hours exposure to sunlight at noon time each day. Food grade stainless inner tank with no-welding technology made leak free possible. Patented insulation technology can guarantee you hot water for 72 hours without sun. Tap water pressure in, tap water pressure out. Flexible location, can sit on the ground, or on the roof, easy to install. Ideal option for both solar water heating and space heating. High ROI: 1 to 3 year paying back time 50 Gallon water tank, good for 3 to 5 people. The system includes insulated water tank, solar collectors, mounting frame. Best value guaranteed Available in stock, easy do-it-your self installation. Technical data: 1) Inner tank: stainless steel–1.2mm; 2) 15 Vacuum tubes: QB-AL-N/AL-58-1500; 3) Outer tank: painted steel-0.4mm; 4) Frame: coated galvanized steel-1.5mm; 5) The material of insulation: polyurethane 50mm; 6) The reflector: aluminum component; AL99.85% surface oxidation; 7) Copper coil: Ø12mm, thickness 0.8mm. Installation: 1. locate a place on the ground or roof, with maximum sunlight in your home; try to be due south as much as you can. 2. Level and set ground work. 3 read installation manual and assemble the system accordingly. 4. Connect cold water to the inlet and hot water outlet to your existing hot water line. 5. Check any leak, then enjoy. Shipping: 50 u.s. states
10. Solar Water Heater Working Station up to 120gal USA Made
Price: $499.99
- For up to 120Gal systems,mechanical parts made in USA warranty 1year
- with taco cirqulator 120VUSA
- Made of Copper piping with 3/4″ pex or sweat connections
- pressure gage, expantion tank,automatic controller China made
Solar working station for the pressurized solar water heaters. assembled , ready to go for systems up to 120Gal .Just connect it to pex or copper pipes of your system.3/4 connection, may come disassembled.
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Copyright 2012 David Masters
