Solar Thermal Farmhouse
As part of a new construction project in 2007, solar was a major part of the green plans for the house. (16) 4’x10’ Solar Skies solar thermal collectors heat (4) 120-gallon solar storage tanks (pictured below). The solar thermal collectors are configured as two separate eight collector systems, each with their own drainback tank, pump, and heat exchanger. The two system are tied together to heat the solar storage tanks. The storage tanks provide preheated water for the backup water heater and for space heating. The building is heated via an in-floor radiant heating system. During the heating season, when there is enough heat in the tanks, heat is transferred to the radiant floor. When there is not heat available in the tanks, a back-up boiler provides the hot water.
Innovative Power Systems prefers to use Solar Skies solar thermal collectors for several reasons. The collectors are manufactured in Alexandria, Minnesota. One of the many benefits renewable energy has is the creation of jobs. Solar Skies employs about 12 full-time employees, benefiting the local economy. Solar Skies collectors are also very reliable, with a ten-year warranty. In terms of performance, Solar Skies collectors compare favorably with more expensive flat-plate and evacuated tube collectors.