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Performance of three breadbox solar water heaters in central Florida

Technical Report ·
OSTI ID:6413611
This project investigated three breadbox solar waterheaters in Central Florida. Temperature distributions that occur as the breadbox tank absorbs solar energy are throughly documented. Thermal stratification in breadbox heaters is dramatic during sunny hours as the tank collects useful energy. Performance of breadbox water heaters is hindered by their small surface area to volume ratio. For instance, the typical Florida domestic solar water heating system uses 40 ft/sup 2/ collector for an 84 gallon tank. Typical breadbox designs provide roughly half this amount for similar storage volumes. In Florida's mild climate, nocturnal insulation can be considered optional for nine months of the year. However, winter performance without an insulation mechanism is very poor with 6 am tank temperatures below 80/sup 0/F. This contrasts sharply with results from a nominal 1.5'' expanded polystyrene shutter system 6 am tank top temperatures of 107/sup 0/F.
Research Organization:
Burch (Jefferson B.), Oakland, FL (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
FG44-81R410463
OSTI ID:
6413611
Report Number(s):
DOE/R4/10463-T1; ON: DE85000635
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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