The Solar Option I Heating System
Other solar options.
Domestic Hot Water and Space Heating With Long Term Passive Heat Storage
This is the most powerful of the Radiantec heating systems. It is a "hybrid"
system that combines the best features of "active" and "passive" technologies
while leaving behind their respective disadvantages.
ADVANTAGES AND BENEFITS
A significant advantage of
the Solar Option I system is that it is capable of meeting nearly all of
a residential type building's heating needs, even in quite challenging
climates. Another advantage is exceptionally high efficiency that very
low operating temperatures entail. "Substantial improvements were noted
in system efficiency, overall performance, initial cost and architectural
flexibility. An increase in collector efficiency translates into fewer
solar panels, lowered costs,and easier design integration into accepted
building styles. A large thermal mass, integrated within the building's
structure provides prolonged solar storage, radiant comfort and further
lowered costs."
-Report to US Department of Energy
1983 (DOE/CE15140-T)
The Solar Option I is applicable to new slab on grade buildings. It uses the
structure's inherent ability to store heat energy and that must be designed
in from the beginning.
OPERATION
The sun will shine upon 7 or more solar collectors. Solar energy will be stored within an 120 gallon
solar storage tank for domestic hot water and within a 2' thick
slab and compacted earth bed for long-term space heating storage.
COMPONENTS REQUIRED
2008 Prices
| 7 - 4' x 8' Solar Collectors |
$4,977.00 |
| Mounting Hardware and struts |
$420.00 |
| 120 Gallon Storage Tank with Integral Heat Exchanger |
$1,200.00 |
| Plumbing Mechanical Package |
$469.00 |
| High Head Pump |
$329.00 |
| Solar Controller with heat dump and high temp override |
$749.00 |
| Thermostatic Slab Control |
$255.00 |
| Quality Tempering Valve |
$119.00 |
| Misc. Components (sensors, struts, etc.) |
$180.00 |
| Passive Solar Heat Exchanger (tubing, manifolds) |
$1,500.00 |
|
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| Total |
$10,198.00 |
PERFORMANCE EXPECTED
Solar Option I heating systems are capable of providing up to 95%
of a home's heat and domestic water needs.
ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE
If oil costs $1.00 per gallon, Solar Option I will save enough money to yield about 12% annual return
on the investment (tax free). If the cost of oil goes up in the future
either because of inflation or escalation, the return on the solar investment
will go up as well.
Click here for other solar options.
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