Unique wood-fired system for domestic hot water generation. Final report
This project has proven that it is possible to construct in a home workshop situation, a simple, durable, reasonably modest-cost stove and heat-exchanger which will conveniently generate wood-fueled hot water year-round to meet household needs and daily demand schedules. Included with this report are the illustrations, descriptions, and details which should make it possible for someone with the proper skills to construct their own system. However, before rushing out to buy copper and steel, it would be important for anyone to consider the costs, benefits, and possible alternatives available. Whatever the source of hot water, conservation is a major way of saving energy and money. Some major ways of conserving are to add extra insulation to the water heater tank, turning the heating elements down to 115 to 120/sup 0/F thermostat settings, using a timer to turn on the elements only during the time of day that hot water will be needed, using warm or cold water for laundry, and using flow-restricting shower heads. These measures can save up to 50% of the energy previously used, with very little investment. Total costs for the system using an existing water heater for the storage tank could range from $200 to over $1000. Assuming free firewood, at current utility prices this would make a pay-back period for original investment of only 8 months to 3 years 4 months for the average family. Considering these costs, one might reasonably wonder if it would be worthwhile to purchase and use a wood-fired system which would save only a dollar or less per daily use. This would amount to a rate of savings pay equal to no more than the minimum wage for the time involved.
- Research Organization:
- Stone Family Dulcimers, Montrose, PA (USA)
- DOE Contract Number:
- FG43-79R306086
- OSTI ID:
- 6038398
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/R3/06086-T1; ON: DE85009202
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Related Subjects
HEAT EXCHANGERS
RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS
WATER HEATERS
WOOD BURNING APPLIANCES
APPROPRIATE TECHNOLOGY
COMBUSTION
ECONOMIC ANALYSIS
EFFICIENCY
STOVES
APPLIANCES
BUILDINGS
CHEMICAL REACTIONS
ECONOMICS
HEATERS
OXIDATION
THERMOCHEMICAL PROCESSES
320101* - Energy Conservation
Consumption
& Utilization- Residential Buildings- (-1987)