What types of systems are suitable for homes?
Three types of solar collectors are used for residential applications: • Flat-plate collector Glazed flat-plate collectors are insulated, weatherproofed boxes that contain a dark absorber plate under one or more glass or plastic (polymer) covers. Unglazed flat-plate collectors-typically used for solar pool heating – have a dark absorber plate, made of metal or polymer, without a cover or enclosure. • Integral collector-storage systems Also known as ICS or batch systems, integral collector-storage systems feature one or more black tanks or tubes in an insulated, glazed box. Cold water first passes through the solar collector, which preheats the water. The water then continues on to the conventional backup water heater, providing a reliable source of hot water. They should be installed only in mild-freeze climates because the outdoor pipes could freeze in severe, cold weather. • Evacuated-tube solar collectors Evacuated-tube solar collectors feature parallel rows of transparent glass tub
