Solar water heating systems can provide between 40 - 60% of annual domestic hot water in northern latitudes, more in southern latitudes. Systems can be integrated with the existing water heating system - electricity, gas, oil, wood fuel. Solar-assisted central heating systems can provide space heating and solar thermal technology can also be used to cool buildings. Swimming pool systems extend the period of use of pools, even in hot climates.
Video on solar thermal in Denmark and Spain from Sustainable Energy Europe. Features the biggest plant in Europe (7 min.)
View this film here (8 min.):
The following books cover various aspects of solar thermal technology. Some are introductory texts while others are professional text books. Some free useful downloads in pdf format can be found at the bottom of this page.
TAPPING THE SUN – the book to buy before you buy a solar water heating system. It could save you hundreds of pounds. Describes how the various types of system work, how many panels needed, how much it should cost and how much you might save in energy bills over the lifetime of the system. Includes information on resources for advice on grants, suppliers and manufacturers.
SOLAR WATER HEATING – A DIY GUIDE describes how to build, mount and install your own solar water heating system. This easy-to-follow and well illustrated guide takes you through every step from construction to fitting and controls. Includes information on the legal requirements of current Building Regulations.
PLANNING & INSTALLING SOLAR THERMAL SYSTEMS is a guide/text book for professional installers, architects and engineers. Covers most aspects of the subject. A4, full colour, 280 pages.
Some informative downloads on solar water heating:
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Viewers with visual difficulties may find it useful to visit http://access.adobe.com.
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There are different types of solar water heating collectors, such as evacuated tubes from Thermomax (above) or flat plate collectors from Filsol (below)
