Solar heating is getting more and more popular in Wisconsin due to the effectiveness and efficiency it offers. The energy prices rise, and climate concerns grow. Modern homeowners are using solar heating to capture and use the sun’s thermal energy for household purposes. But the question comes, how is solar heating used in households?
Some common applications of solar heating in the household include domestic hot water heating, pool heating, space heating through radiant floor systems, and pre-heating ventilation air. You can also use it for laundry water pre-heating, greenhouse heating, kitchen water heating, and supplemental heating in hybrid systems.
This system reduces energy cost and ensures a green footprint on the environment using renewable energy. Learn more about how does the solar heating system works.
Common Household Applications of Solar Heating
Solar Water Heating
People use solar heating for water heating in Wisconsin’s cold weather. The rooftop solar collectors absorb sunlight and convert it into thermal energy that heats water stored in a tank. The water is then used for showers, dishwashing, or laundry. Besides, people use it to supply a large portion of a home’s daily hot water needs.
Space Heating
People also use solar heating to heat the living areas. The system distributes the heat throughout the room using hydronic or air systems with a radiator, fan, or underfloor tubing. Solar collectors heat a fluid, like water or glycol solution, and circulate it. This approach is suitable and energy-efficient during cold months.
Radiant Floor Heating
Solar thermal energy can also be used for floor heating. It is comfortable and energy efficient. The system pumps heated water through PEX tubing installed beneath the flooring.
Swimming Pool Heating
Homeowners in Wisconsin use solar heating to heat their swimming pools. It is a cost-effective and low-maintenance way to warm swimming pools, saving hundreds in gas heating or electric costs. Unglazed flat-plate collectors are used for efficient heating.
Solar-Assisted Heat Pumps
Solar-assisted systems can easily preheat water or air. You can feed it into an electric or gas heat pump to decrease the load on the mechanical system..
Laundry Water Pre-Heating
A solar thermal system can preheat the water going into washing machines. It decreases the workload on internal heating elements.
Kitchen Water Heating
Some people use solar heat to serve the kitchen sink or dishwasher. You can route pre-heated water into these fixtures to reduce the demand on point-of-use heaters. It significantly reduces the energy cost.
Greenhouse Heating
Solar heat can also help residential greenhouses maintain optimal growing conditions year-round. The structure traps the heat, and thermal storage materials hold it after sunset.
What are the benefits of using Solar Heating in a household
Decrease Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Using solar heating will cut down carbon emissions. You are replacing fossil fuels with solar thermal energy. It will dramatically decrease the reliance on oil, coal, and natural gas. Thus it will decrease the greenhouse gas emissions.
Lower Energy Bills
Solar heating uses a natural energy source instead of electricity or gas. It reduces your monthly utility costs. Learn the monthly bill for solar panel.
Increased Home Value
Wisconsin’s people are focusing more on green energy. Houses with solar heating systems are getting more selling value. It stands your home out from others and attracts more prospective buyers.
Low Maintenance
A solar heating system can last 20+ years with minimal maintenance. The systems have minimal moving parts that reduce the need for maintenance.
Decreased Dependency on Grid Energy
You can easily decrease the dependency on grid energy by using solar power. It reduces energy bills and provides you with independence during peak demand hours
Is Solar Heating Right for Your Home?
Check the following to understand whether the heating system is right for you.
Sunlight Availability
The solar heating performance highly depends on the amount of sunlight your roof gets every day. The ideal candidates are homes with higher irradiance, like the Southwest U.S., parts of the Midwest, and southern states. You can also use it in cloudier or colder regions if you install it properly with a backup.
Roof Orientation and Space
Your roof orientation, slope, and shading influence the efficiency of the solar heating system. Roofs with minimal tree or building shading and south-facing roofs in the northern hemisphere will get more sunlight. You also need enough roof space to install a flat plate.
Existing Heating Infrastructure
Some solar systems cannot be installed with existing heating infrastructure. These systems integrate better with hydronic systems, radiant floor heating, or homes that already use water-based heating.
Environment concern
Are you concerned with the carbon footprint? If yes, then a solar heating system can be a good option for your house. It uses natural sunlight instead of non-renewable energy.
Energy Goals
Are you planning to save on energy bills? If your energy bills are higher due to the use of the electric heater, then installing this system will significantly reduce the energy bills
FAQs
How much does a solar heating installation cost
The average cost to install a solar heating system in a household is $2.98/W in Wisconsin. This includes all the costs. That means for a 5 kw installation, you need to pay about $14,902. However, the cost will slightly vary depending on the size, type, model, and labor costs.
Is solar heating practical for average homeowners?
Yes, average homeowners can install solar heating. Though the initial installation cost is higher, it will save you money in the long run. Besides, the system is designed to integrate easily with residential property. You can easily install it in an average house.
Can I combine solar with other energy sources?
Yes, you can integrate a solar heating system with other conventional energy sources such as gas, electricity, or heat pumps. This system offers flexibility and delivers consistent heating.
Need a Solar Installation system for your home?
Contact Lehman Electrical for energy-saving solar installation for your home. We are local, industry pros and affordable.