Solar Heating Systems Why Is It Gaining Significance?

From then on, the traditional heating methods have been replaced by the solar heating systems in many of the countries. Today there are many leading manufacturers that sell a variety of these heating systems which can be utilized for domestic as well as commercial heating purposes.

Why Are Solar Heating Systems Preferred?

There are many reasons for the widespread usage of these heating systems in many countries which experience harsh weather conditions. Some of the most important reasons shall be discussed in the following sections.

Shortage of fuels: With the shortage of fuels and the rising costs of the conventional heating methods, more and more people have begun to realize the importance of solar heating systems.

Economical: The use of these heating systems, which utilize the energy from the sun, is considerably one of the cheapest ways to heat homes and commercial sites. There is a huge reduction in the electricity bills as compared to the conventional heaters.

Renewable: Compared to the other sources of energy such as coal, oil and fossil fuels, the energy from the sun lasts forever.

Clean and natural: Solar heating systems are known to be the most natural and clean form of heating systems that can be used for heating, cooling and lighting purposes.

Global warming: Another important reason why most of the people prefer to use these heating systems is because it is environment friendly. It seldom causes any type of pollution unlike the fossil fuels which release harmful toxins into the atmosphere, thereby creating global warming.

Various Types of Solar Heating Systems

Solar electric systems: Also known as Photovoltaics, these systems convert sunlight into electrical power. It is quite an expensive method of generating electric power.

Thermal systems: Another type of heating system is the thermal solar heating systems which utilize the sun’s energy for heating purposes. The thermal systems are mainly used for three purposes-

- To heat spaces
- To heat swimming pools
- To heat water

The thermal systems are further categorized into two types- the Active systems and the Passive systems

Active systems: The active systems are known to be more efficient and expensive compared to the passive systems. In the active systems, heat is transferred by moving water with the help of electric pumps and valves. The active systems are further sub-divided into two types- the closed loop systems and the open loop systems. The closed loop systems are used in countries with colder climates as it is more efficient compared to the other heating systems.

Passive systems: One of the greatest advantages of the passive heating system is its low and easy maintenance. Moreover, it can function without electric power. The passive solar heating systems are also available in two types- the Thermosyphon and the Integral Collectors Storage (ICS).

In brief, the use of solar heating systems is one of the most efficient and affordable methods to integrate power for heating purposes.