Solar Space Heating Solutions
SES designed and installed a solar hot water and space heating system for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation Port Isobel Study Center located on Tangier Island on the Chesapeake Bay. Click photo for a better view.
Solar space heating systems for use in commercial applications are basically large commercial-sized hot water systems. There are many ways to put the heat into the structure depending on the type of heating system currently installed. Two of the most effective methods are:
1. FORCED AIR: On these systems a fan coil is placed in the return duct between the filter and furnace. When there is a call for heat and the tank is above about 90° , a small pump takes hot water from the solar tank and sends it to the coil, preheating the air going into the furnace.
2. HOT WATER HEAT: These systems heat the water going back to the boiler. Usually we use special controls to make the boiler run more efficiently and lower it’s operating temperature when the outside temperature is warmer.
Additional Considerations for Solar Space Heating
REQUIREMENTS:
- Southerly facing outside area large enough to house required collectors.
- Compatible infrastructure for space heating (i.e. baseboard, sub-floor radiant, forced air etc.)
COST:
Varies with square footage. Will automatically include DHW.
LONGEVITY:
A lifetime. Service recommended once every five years.
