Performance of forced and wind assisted domestic solar hot water systems- a comparative experimental study

Abstract

Natural circulation type hot water systems are widely used in domestic applications due to cost effectiveness; however, efficiencies are lower due to lower collector flow rate under natural circulation. Forced circulation systems (FCS) offer higher efficiencies but require electricity for operation. A novel system, windmill assisted system (WAS), is fabricated and tested. Collector flow rates in WAS are observed as a function of wind velocity. Wind flow increases flow rate and thus heat collection. On test days, efficiencies of WAS and FCS modes are found close to each other. WAS appears to be a better alternative to FCS for remote areas with no electricity.