For ages, people have been harvesting energy from the sun for use around the home. That is even evident in the position of their dwellings in relation to the sun and openings in sections of the roofs of their homes. The sun provides warmth and energy that can be converted to heat water and cook food. As time passed, people found new and faster ways to use solar energy. Many of those methods are non-intrusive and roof solar heating units are an excellent example. They are a common sight on the roofs of RDP houses in South Africa. Solar geysers save a lot of energy which translates to money and many homeowners are substituting their electric powered geyser for these more economical solar geyser. The great thing about solar heating systems is that many come with a gas or electric back-up system in case the sun does not make a frequent and generous appearance as in winter.
Solar heating systems comprise of different parts to suit their functions by all of them consist of solar panels. Solar panels are instrumental in the collection and conversion of solar energy. Solar panels are indeed like the engine of the solar heating system; they are responsible for solar thermal conversion and photovoltaic conversion.
Solar panels that aid solar thermal conversion have mirrors that reflect sunlight to the storage water tank. This is the simple process by which heat from the sun is received by the solar panels and then transferred to the water inside the water tank. It is such simple yet effective technology that makes solar heating systems value for their price.
Photovoltaic conversion is a slightly more complex solar energy. ‘Photovoltaic’ means using light to produce electricity. Sheets of high-quality, relevant materials are employed to collect sunlight and use it to produce electric energy.
Solar panels are made of sturdy material that can withstand the effects of harsh weather and impact by falling fruit and tree branches as well as hail. Solar heating systems are a perfect solution for South Africa’s climate and economic circumstances.