Peter and Matt came up yesterday and, among other things, installed the drip pan for the drainback tanks for the solar heating system, plus two water pumps and a flow meter.
They finished the plumbing for the drainback tanks, and that part is ready for leak checking.
They also completed the input-water plumbing for one-half of the solar collectors.
The Good Lord willing and creek don’t rise, they may finish their part in a week or so. But we are not holding our breaths. As the saying goes, “There’s many a slip ‘twixt the cup and the lip.” Have you ever noticed that?
May 3, 2014
solar is such a wonderful thing.
i had no idea that it was so complicated though.
i wish they could simplify it and maybe make it more affordable for the average joe.
good luck in the between sip!
The solar water heating most people use is a lot simpler than Andy’s system. He figures ours will pay for itself by the time he’s 150. He says the difference is ours is to be used in the winter, not the summer, because it’s only for radiant heating in the floors. At the moment he uses propane to keep the temperature in the living at least 60 degrees, then he builds a fire to heat things up. He’s now 79 and is becoming less and less interested in chopping wood. It would be cheaper just to use more propane, but this is also an interesting technical challenge. Never underestimate the mental health value of having fun problems to solve. My only requirement is that he be happy.
I like the neat workmanship.
Yes, they’re doing nice work.
Today I’m happier. I’m enjoying the day by day PROGRESS.
Yay, bikehikebabe!
Oh I have.
Yes. After all these years we’re used to it by now.
Solar is getting simpler Tammy. There is a dish reflector used directly to heating the water being tested at the moment. (So no need to convert the solar to electricity to heat the water – just heating it direct. No good for electricity generation though.)
Those panels aren’t photovoltaic (to generate electricity), they’re for heating water directly. Remember, our photovoltaic panels are mounted outside: