Solar energy is the process of heating water using the sun and a solar thermal collector. To give solutions in various latitudes and climates, a range of designs are available at variable costs. Solar water heating systems are commonly employed in both industrial and residential settings.
In the field of solar energy, a solar collector, also known as a solar thermal collector, is equipment that can absorb solar energy. The flat plate collector is the most prevalent collector. A pressurized or non-pressurized system can be designed using either the evacuated tube collector or the flat plate collector
Pressurized System
The water in circulation through a pressured solar heating system is powered by a water pump. Water heaters with pressure pumps, for example, are required in hotels or other locations where hot water is pumped to the farthest water tap.
Non – pressurized System
Water moves from the tanks using gravity in a non-pressurized solar water heating system. Pumps are not required to pressurize the system. Therefore, based on the area of your source of water, hot water tank, and end destinations such as storage tank, a pressurized system may or may not be required.
Comparison between Evacuated Solar Heater and Flat Plate Collector System
Shape
A flat collector is generally referred to as a solar panel because it is flat in form and often rectangular in design. Usually, plastic covers or layers of glass are used to insulate the flat plate collector. An evacuated tube collector, however, is made out of tubes that are separated by a vacuum to reduce heat loss. The function of the collectors is to absorb solar energy.
Protection from Extreme Temperature
Temperatures might be extremely hot or cold, even freezing, at times. When compared to flat panel water heaters, the evacuated solar water heater’s tube-like form makes freezing nearly impossible. Conversely, evacuated solar systems may overheat in extremely hot climates. Furthermore, unlike flat plate solar systems, which can be emptied to prevent overheating, evacuated systems, cannot be drained back. To avoid overheating, heat dumps must be placed in evacuated systems.
Maintenance
A damaged flat plate collector necessitates the replacement of the entire plate, which might be costly. In the event of damage, evacuated tubes, on the other hand, may require fixing of a single tube only.
Cost
Compared to evacuated solar water systems, flat plate collectors are substantially less expensive. As a result, flat plate solar water systems are popular due to their affordability. Flat plate solar water heater is usually less expensive than evacuated tube collector solar water heating system.
Sensitivity to Solar Energy
Energy absorption can occur from a wide angle with evacuated solar heaters utilizing tube collectors, and they are efficient even on overcast or rainy days. Flat plate solar water heater systems, on the other hand, are mostly dependent on proper positioning, such as inclination angle, to maximize the heater’s exposure to direct sunlight for maximum efficiency.
Conclusion
There are various factors that one has to consider before purchasing any one of the types of solar water heating systems. For instance the cost,flat plate collector is cheaper than evacuated heater. Sensitivity to solar energy, maintenance, protection from extreme temperature and efficiency are just among the factors to be put into consideration.
