After three long weeks we finally have the results of our test. This was an experiment comparing solar PV vs. solar Thermal panels in heating water.

I have been heating water with my solar thermal collectors for years, and then storing that hot water in a thermal battery. However, I have found that the tank never seems to get super hot. Also, a few months ago, I had a leak in one of my thermal panels. Those things motivated me to see if there was a better way. Everyone says heating water with PV is crazy. But why? I set up an experiment to find out if it is a dumb idea, or holds merit.

I was very surprised to find that the PV panels did a fantastic job. Not only did they create more heat (BTU's) but they also got the tank of water hotter compared with the solar thermal collectors. I think I'm in love with solar PV panels!

It's important to me to learn all I can about heating water without grid power. I'm trying to move my family's energy needs off-grid so that we are more energy independent.

I've got a lot of videos about this whole experiment. Here are a few:

Storing 180°F water: [ Ссылка ]
Introduction to the experiment: [ Ссылка ]
Building the experiment: [ Ссылка ]
Wiring the PV panels: [ Ссылка ]

Thank you for your support on Patreon: [ Ссылка ]

DC Power Meter: [ Ссылка ]
DC Hot Water Pump: [ Ссылка ]
DC Electric Heating Element: [ Ссылка ]

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