How do evacuated tubes compare to regular thermal panels?
The SRCC ratings that scientifically compare the two technologies show that evacuated tubes only perform better in extreme conditions, when the air is over 90 degrees colder than the water being heated. In the state of Colorado, this happens less then 10% of time. The other 90% (perhaps 95%) of the time, regular panels offer a better energy performance than evacuated tubes. Evacuated tubes of the past showed significant reliability problems over time. The newer tubes yet need to prove their reliability with the test of time. One thing is clear: evacuated tubes cost almost twice as much as regular thermal panels. Over all, evacuated tubes are less reliable than thermal panels, and their pay-back for regular applications in most Colorado homes are at least twice longer. Evacuated tubes would be a better option for a cabin on a mountain top or in Alaska, or for specific industrial applications which require water temperatures near the boiling point.
