aurinkolämpöpaneeleista

Aurinkolämpöpaneelit, also known as solar thermal collectors, are devices designed to capture solar energy and convert it into heat. This heat is then typically used for domestic hot water production or space heating. Unlike photovoltaic (PV) panels that generate electricity, solar thermal collectors focus on transferring thermal energy.

The basic principle of a solar thermal collector involves an absorber plate, often coated with a selective surface to maximize heat absorption and minimize emission. This plate is enclosed in an insulated box with a transparent cover, usually made of glass, to reduce heat loss to the surroundings. A heat transfer fluid, such as water or a mixture of water and antifreeze, circulates through tubes attached to the absorber plate. As the sun's radiation strikes the collector, it heats the absorber plate, which in turn heats the fluid passing through it.

This heated fluid is then pumped to a storage tank, where it can be used as needed. In domestic hot water systems, the heated fluid from the collector transfers its heat to the water in the storage tank via a heat exchanger. For space heating, the heated fluid can be circulated through radiators or underfloor heating systems. Solar thermal systems can significantly reduce reliance on conventional heating methods, leading to lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint. The efficiency of a solar thermal collector depends on factors such as its design, insulation, orientation, and the amount of solar radiation it receives.