PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Solar Hot Water system- (Active, closed loop system)
Solar collectors mounted on the roof are used to pre-heat water
by means of a heat exchanger in the solar hot water storage tank.
When water is needed at a faucet, this pre-heated water flows through
the electric hot water heater and then to the faucet. During the
winter, the electric hot water heater brings the water temperature up
to 105 degrees. During the summer the pre-heated water may be as
hot as 180 degrees, and cold water is mixed with the pre-heated water
to bring it down to 105 degrees.
An active system requires pumps, monitors
and controls.
It works. Heat transfer fluid
leaving the panels
at 291 degrees F.
One of the primary goals of this project was to improve hot
water delivery to the sinks for handwashing. Handwashing, by
healthcare providers and staff, accounts for more than 90% of all hot
water usage in this facility. This installation included a hot
water recirculation system to ensure that hot water would be available
within 5 seconds at all faucets. This required re-routing the
supply to 13 fixtures, adding a return loop, and insulation of all hot
water piping.
SYSTEM SCHEMATIC:
PROJECT COST:
$35,000.
FINANCING: Tides
Foundation grant funded 85%, owner paid 15%
SAVINGS: During
the first six months of operation (Nov.07-Apr.08) the entire facility
used a total of 900 KWh less electricity than during the corresponding
period one year prior. It is anticipated that savings will be
greater during the coming summer months.
INSTALLER:
Waters Construction, Willits, CA
Licensed Plumbing Contractor
CONTACT INFO:
Dan Kvaka, Grants & I.T.
Email: dkvaka@longvalley.org
Physician
Sharon Paltin demonstrates correct technique.