Liquid or Air Systems Provide Solar Heat for Home Use

Just the idea of completely heating a home using solar energy is an exciting thought. Solar heat for homes is not a new idea; it has been in use for years, but the reality of producing home energy without fossil fuels is becoming more important every day. There are different types of solar energy systems that can be install for home use. The two types of systems that provide solar heat for home use are called liquid or air. Liquid systems heat an antifreeze solution or water in a hydronic collector and air systems heat air in what’s known as an air collector. They both absorb and collect solar radiation and then transfer it in the form of heat to specific areas in the home. Several factors like the design and location of the home are important considerations when choosing a solar system. Homeowner associations also play a role in the type of solar collectors that can be installed in a home.

Solar heating systems can be designed to provide anywhere from 40 to 80% of home heating needs. Solar systems that provide less than 40% may not be cost-effective, unless the system is designed to heat only one or two rooms without heat storage. Most mortgage lenders require a backup system like a conventional central heating system or a wood stove in case the solar heating collectors fail for some reason. There are software systems available that can assist you in choosing the right system, especially if a home has an existing heating system in place.

The placement of solar collectors is an important ingredient in producing solar heat for home use. Facing true south is the best location. Solar collectors function best between the hours of 9 AM and 3 PM. Any amount of shade reduces heat output, so they are usually placed on the roof or on a wall on the south side of the house where the sun is not restricted by hills or trees.