Solar Geysers ~ basic information
Solar Energy
In this sunny country,solar energy is an abundant source of renewable energy,making it an obvious choice when seeking alternative sources of energy.
Solar water heating &how a Solar Geyser works
Solar geysers are built on two basic principles of physics:dark coloured objects absorb heat,and hot water rises.
Unlike other systems that can be very complex,a solar geyser is simple,as water is the only moving part. This is a big advantage in terms of reliability and maintenance costs.
A typical Solar Geyser system has three major components:
- a solar collector,
- a transfer medium and
- a storage container.
The solar collector absorbs solar radiation and transfers the energy,using heat,to the fluid inside the collector.
In the solar geyser,this fluid is the transfer medium.
In a direct system,the transfer medium is the potable water from the storage container.
In an indirect system,the transfer fluid is generally a mix of water and glycol,which passes the energy to the storage container via an isolating heat exchanger.
In areas in South Africa where temperatures drop to below freezing (4°C),an indirect system is recommended.
As the price for energy increases,savvy homeowners should ensure that their homes are not completely reliant on the mainstream power grid.
By reducing your electricity dependence on the grid,you become part of a more sustainable and responsible global community of homeowners and enjoy significant electricity &cost savings at the same time.
Against a global rainfall average of 870mm per year,South Africa receives a pitiful 450mm,making it the world's 30th driest country.