Billions of
photons stream from the Sun to the Earth. When photons strike the Earth's
surface atoms begin moving faster. The increased speed generates heat and is
the theory behind thermal conduction. This is what solar power is based upon.
Solar water heaters use no moving parts, just a heat collector box. This
passive method can heat water up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
Difficulty:
Moderate Instructions
Hot water heater
Black spray paint
Copper piping or strong hose
Water supply fittings
Pressure release valve
2-by-4-inch lumber
Reflective insulation
Plywood sheets
Sheet of double paned glass
Window clips
Wood screws
Drill and drill bit
The Water Tank
1.Locate
the water heater. Look in local junk yards or at homes being remodeled. Ask
about pricing and choose a water heater in good condition for your price range.
2.Remove
the outer enclosure. Remove the insulation. Remove the pipe fittings. You want
only the metal tank that makes up the core of the heater. Discard and recycle
the parts you removed according to local ordinances.
3.Fill
the tank with water. Check for leaks. Empty the tank and rinse out any
sediments.
4.Sand
the tank exterior thoroughly. Spray the exterior with the black paint. Use
multiple coats. The paint protects the metal from moisture while aiding the
heat absorption.
5.Screw
the water supply fittings to the old connections on top of the tank. You need
one for cold water to flow from the house to the tank and the other to deliver
hot water from the tank to the house. Install the drain spigot to one of the
holes on the side of the tank. Install the pressure release valve near the
fitting for the water supply. Plug the remaining unused holes in the tank.
Collector Box
1.Measure
and cut the lumber to accommodate the size of the tank. Allow for a few inches
clearance around the entire tank.
2.Build
the collector box. Build two squares from the shorter lumber for the top and bottom.
Use the longer lumber to make the sides.
3.Measure
and cut three sections of plywood for the sides of the box. Measure and cut a
square piece of plywood to be the base of the box.
4.Cut
three lengths of 2-by-4-inch lumber to match the curve of the tank base. These
become the supports. Attach the support lumber to the base sheet of plywood.
5.Stand
the box up. Set the base sheet upside down over the top of the box. The
supports should be facing the floor. Attach the base to the box with screws.
Flip the box upright and set in place where the heater is going.
The Walls
1.Lower
the water heater into the box. Rest the base on the supports squarely.
2.Measure
and cut three sections of insulation 4 inches smaller than the plywood sheets
on all sides. Lay insulation onto each sheet with the reflective side facing
outward. Center the insulation and staple it into place.
3.Mount
each of the three insulated sheets to the box to form the walls. Set the walls
with the insulation facing the tank. Keep the south face wall open. The
insulation should fit between the corners of the box. Attach each wall to the
box with screws.
4.Attach
the window clips to the inside edge of the open box side. Slide the appropriate
glass piece into place from the top. Mount the smaller glass piece onto the top
of the box. These will collect the sunlight.
5.Prime
and paint all wood surfaces. This helps maintain the box durability against the
elements. Caulk all the seams to retain heat and keep moisture out.
Attaching Heater
1.Attach
the water lines from the house to the heater. Attach the overflow hose to the
pressure release valve. Run the overflow hose out the bottom of the box.
2.Turn
on the water. Fill the tank and test the lines.
3.Wait
24 hours for the water to heat up. This gives enough time for the heater to
begin working.
