14kBtu/4kWp Solar Thermal Array Performance Data
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Introduction
The performance data presented here is collected from a 14kBtu/4kWp solar air heating system that was installed at our test site in Prince William, New Brunswick. The system consists of a 4 panel ground array (+1 on 12/25/15, see updates below) w/ a 7 foot outdoor duct chase connecting it to the living space (insulated with cellulose to approx. R60), and has a designed heating capacity of approximately 500 square feet in -20°C weather. Filtered indoor air is circulated through the panel array to be heated by the sun, and then back into the living space by two axial fans that are rated for 110VAC/20W, ~100cfm each and are controlled by a KSD301 30°C snap switch and programmable digital thermostat. The purpose of this research is to establish a cost benefit analysis by examining heat energy output from our solar thermal panels in comparison with local weather patterns and solar irradiance variances throughout the heating season, and determine subsequent energy cost savings as a supplemental heat source when compared to other fuel types at their current avg. costs (Fredericton, New Brunswick area).
See below for more details about this system and to view performance reports, or click here for more information about energy cost savings and a potential payback period.
The performance data presented here is collected from a 14kBtu/4kWp solar air heating system that was installed at our test site in Prince William, New Brunswick. The system consists of a 4 panel ground array (+1 on 12/25/15, see updates below) w/ a 7 foot outdoor duct chase connecting it to the living space (insulated with cellulose to approx. R60), and has a designed heating capacity of approximately 500 square feet in -20°C weather. Filtered indoor air is circulated through the panel array to be heated by the sun, and then back into the living space by two axial fans that are rated for 110VAC/20W, ~100cfm each and are controlled by a KSD301 30°C snap switch and programmable digital thermostat. The purpose of this research is to establish a cost benefit analysis by examining heat energy output from our solar thermal panels in comparison with local weather patterns and solar irradiance variances throughout the heating season, and determine subsequent energy cost savings as a supplemental heat source when compared to other fuel types at their current avg. costs (Fredericton, New Brunswick area).
See below for more details about this system and to view performance reports, or click here for more information about energy cost savings and a potential payback period.
Click on a time period below to view and/or download performance data:
Nov-Dec Dec-Jan Jan-Feb Feb-Mar Mar-Apr Apr-May Log start: Nov. 25/2015 Total system run time to date, April 07/16: 368.3 hrs System Updates: Dec 25/15: +1 900Wp (40cfm) panel, power potential increased to 14kBtu/4kWp Dec 26/15: Trees removed from property to extend afternoon harvest approx. 1/2 hr |
System Spec's:
Power in: 110v/40w Heat energy out: ~14kBtu/4kWp Collector size: 4.8 sq.m/52 sq.ft Airflow: ~1900 fpm/170 cfm Heat capacity: 4400 cu.ft, 125 cu.m, (~500 sq.ft) Heated living space: 10,304 cu.ft, 291.8 cu.m, (28'x46'x8') |