Päikeseküttesüsteem

A päikeseküttesüsteem, or solar thermal system, is a technology that uses sunlight to heat water or another fluid. This heated fluid can then be used for various purposes, most commonly for domestic hot water or space heating. The core components of a solar thermal system include solar collectors, a storage tank, and a circulation system. Solar collectors, typically flat-plate collectors or evacuated tube collectors, are mounted on a roof or in an open area to capture solar radiation. These collectors contain an absorber plate that heats up when exposed to sunlight, transferring this heat to a fluid flowing through pipes within the collector.

The heated fluid then travels to a storage tank, which is usually an insulated cylinder. The storage tank holds the hot water until it is needed. A circulation system, often powered by a small electric pump, moves the fluid between the collectors and the storage tank. In some simpler systems, natural convection can also drive this circulation. The heated water from the storage tank can then be used directly for showering, washing dishes, or supplied to a heating system to warm a building.

Solar thermal systems can significantly reduce reliance on conventional heating methods, such as fossil fuels or electricity, leading to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. The efficiency of a system depends on factors like the amount of sunlight received, the collector's design and orientation, and the system's insulation. While the initial investment can be considerable, the long-term savings and environmental benefits make solar thermal systems an increasingly popular choice for sustainable energy generation. They are a practical application of renewable energy, harnessing the sun's power for everyday needs.