Evacuated Tube vs Solartwin
Its important to understand the difference between Direct and Indirect when deciding on solar hot water
Indirect |
Direct
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The water in the panel stays in the panel / loop. It generally contains antifreeze which needs to be changed every year.
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The water in the panel is the same fresh water that's come from the tank. This will freeze in winter but some systems are freeze tolerant such as this one from Genfit.
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Evacuated Tube (Direct)
In these evacuated Tube type, the water circulating the panel is separate to the water in the tank and contains antifreeze. The antifreeze needs to be changed every year, so they are quite high maintenance. They also require a thermal coil in the hot water tank. So you may need a dual coil tank if you are already using the coil. Also the pump is generally mains powered, so although the tubes are very efficient the mains pump continuously draws power.
Cons
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Direct
The water in the panel is the same fresh water that's come from the tank. This will freeze in winter but some systems are freeze tolerant such as this one from Genfit.
I have been personally using this type for 13 years and found it excellent. Main maintenance wise it is very easy to repair if there are problems such as
I have been personally using this type for 13 years and found it excellent. Main maintenance wise it is very easy to repair if there are problems such as
- Pump valves degrading (tiny rubber flaps replaced with hand made ones out of cycle inner tube)
Pros
Cons
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Solartwin is a great Solar Thermal Panel system.
It can be installed in a day. Cost £3500 inc installation or £2500 DIY. Solar Thermal AKA solar hot water, can reduce the energy required to heat your hot water for washing and bathing by as much as 70% providing free hot water for 1-4 people for most of the year. |
The solar controller (middle unit) included with the panel has 3 sensors showing temperatures in the -
I have added an immersion heater timer (bottom unit), during winter set to come on for 1 hour during the night time rate 12:30 - 4:30 when electricity is 1/3rd the price. If the water temp is a bit low for a shower <37c just push the 15min booster & by the time it takes to get in the shower, the water will be warm enough. |
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Solar PV vs Thermal
Solar ThermalPros
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PV'sPros
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