Solar Collectors Choice

There are two main types of solar heating collectors:

- flat collectors (glazed and unglazed);
- evacuated-tubes collectors

Other types of solar collectors comprise: ICS (Integrated Solar) and concentrating panels. These last panels are rarely used in solar home applications.

Choosing the type of collector depends largely on climate conditions, price and on the type of application. Below we draw some some rough conclusions about the most suitable solar panels for several solar applications, taking into account the climate, price and type of application.

Solar Modules

Solar electricity involves a specific type of solar panels (mono crystalline, polycrystalline, thin film…) typically manufactured by large manufacturers as Sharp, Kyocera, Photowatt, BP Solar, or Mitsubishi...

SOLAR COLLECTORS AND SOLAR MODULES

The term solar solar collector refers to solar panels for hot water and air heating requirements. The type of solar collectors vary with the intended goal – water heating, radiant floor heating, pool heating, air space heating - and the climate where they are going to be applied.

Solar modules (also referred to as PV modules and solar generators) are used to convert sunlight directly into electricity.

Drainback Solar Systems

Like anti-freezing systems, drainback solar systems are also specially conceived for cold climates. They offer lower maintenance and longer life and reliability, but they pose higher demands in terms of design.

Antifreezing Solar Heating Systems (Active-Closed Pressurized Systems)

Cold climates demand more complex systems. Batch/ICS systems are clearly inadequate in freezing conditions, and thermosyphon solar systems involve some limitations.

One of the most popular solutions for freezing climates comprises a relatively complex system with an antifreezing fluid (glycol, usually), a differential controller, an expansion and a storage tank, and a heat exchanger and sensors and valves.

The Open-Loop Direct System

If you live in a moderate or hot climate, without freezing problems, you may choose a simple solar heating water system using a pump and water at the collector level. This system is called technically an Open-loop direct system.

Thermosyphon Solar Systems

Thermosyphon systems are also a simple solar heaters, very efficient and very popular in moderate and hot climates. They are cheap and demand no pumps or special controls, and can also be installed in colder climates.