Solar Thermal High Mass Radiant Heating System
Innovative Power Systems installed this 10-collector solar thermal high mass radiant space heating system in Lutsen, MN in 2007. A high mass radiant heating system differs from a traditional heating system because it uses a two foot insulated sandbed under the foundation of the house as the thermal storage instead of water tanks. Tubing is installed in the sandbed and heat from the solar collectors is transferred directly to the sandbed. There is no heat distribution system in the house. As the house cools down, heat from the sandbed naturally rises, heating the house. With the super-insulated walls and south-facing windows, the solar thermal system is producing more than 85% of the total space heating load of the house, in Minnesota!
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.