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endi2000

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New Member

Posts:1

05/24/2009 10:54 AM
HI We are seriously thinking of having a solar hot water system installed (no longer of the DIY inclination) What I would like is to hear from someone in My area - Vancouver Island, Canada, who HAS one operating. I would like pros and cons and whether it works in our climate - rain in winter, sun in summer. Thank you

jsdurrant

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Posts:6

09/14/2009 2:26 PM
Hi endi2000, I personally do not currently have my solar hot water installed, but I am looking forward to it. I have a colleague in Kelowna with a Solar hot water system. From what he tells me, his system works all year, maintaining 60 - 80°C. Last winter his electrical backup heat kicked in a couple of times (once when I was there) as he has it setup to do so if the water temperature goes under 55°C. I am thinking about having my hot water line run through my wood furnace as I am attempting to be totally off grid. If you have any questions, I will pass them on. Cheers

Good Better Best, Never let it rest until your good is better than the best.

Alton

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Posts:662

09/14/2009 3:08 PM
jsdurrant, What metal would you use for the water lines through your wood furnace? Would this be a separate isolated loop using a double-wall heat exchanger? In other words, not in contact with any other water or fixtures.

Alton C. Keown Residential Designer and Construction Technology Consultant Auburn, Alabama E-mail: alton at auburn dot edu

jsdurrant

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Posts:6

09/14/2009 5:35 PM
Hi Alton. I am actually researching this now.. I think what I may end up doing is having a water reservoir or collector surrounding my furnace flue. The reservoir will be stainless and for my needs hold about 15 - 20 gallons. A double wall heat exchanger may not be necessary as I will only be using the water to bathe. I am testing out a pump for each system. I will have a completely separate drinking water plumb system. I am open to suggestions!

Good Better Best, Never let it rest until your good is better than the best.

Alton

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Advanced Member

Posts:662

09/14/2009 6:20 PM
My guess is that you may need a pressure relief valve of some type. It all depends upon how hot the fire gets. Also you may need the ability to sterilize the tank and lines occasionally.

Alton C. Keown Residential Designer and Construction Technology Consultant Auburn, Alabama E-mail: alton at auburn dot edu

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