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As shown on the global map on page 12, solar radiation has a value close to 100 watts per square meter averaged over 24 hours. Thus, for this maximum value , in one day there would be an energy input of 2.4 kwatt-hr. We have mentioned 5 kwatt-hr per day for our electricity supply so this is a significant source of free energy. Unfortunately, as the monthly figures show (page 12) there is a much reduced value of solar radiation in the winter months when most of the heating is needed.
The construction of a solar water heater is very simple indeed and we do not need to envoke Quantum Physics again. Elements of a basic heater are as follows:
A plate with water pipes intimately soldered onto the lower side allows heat to be transfered to the domestic water supply. Since the plate would be cooled on the top side by air circulation or any winds that are present, there is a glass cover and this stops air circulation and give a mini green house effect. The whole solar heater is usually placed on the roof to get uninterrupted sunshine. If temperatures are likely to fall below freezing ( as in the UK ) the circulating water has an anti-freeze added and, in this case, additional plumbing is needed:-
There are many variants on solar heating panels and some of the higher cost items have water passing through evacuated tubes so that air conduction losses are minimised. Any advice must be shop around.
Reading from the gas meter at my home will now be given.
The gas heating was switched off during the summer months and hot water was provided with an immersion heater. A solar heating panel would be ideal for providing this hot water and enquires are presently being made regarding installation costs.
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