[Greenbuilding] Volume heat storage

[Jessica]

Clarke, even in drain back systems a heat exchanger is usually used. The
most practical reason, in your case, would be to maximize stratification.
The second valid cause is to limit oxidization, though this can be
accounted for by using all non ferrous components. It sounds like you are
using unpressurized storage. I have seen two unpressurized drainback
systems and one of them used the storage water for the collector "loop" but
has all SS components and the draws are always indirect from an
unpressurized tank anyway. I see no reason to complicate matters by not
using a drain back tank with a HX in the storage tank. I also suspect you
can run the pump longer because one needs to keep an eye on the temperature
tolerance of the tank.

How many Sq. ft of collectors are you using? It seems like you'll do well
with 1000 gallons, your heating load might be less than 20K/hr? I am soon
to embark on piping in a 700 gallon off grid with radiant in Bearsville.
This system is ground mounted and trenched with no option for a drain back
tank so it's going to be a glycol loop.

Jessica




-- 

Jessica Baldwin
917-207-2403
Solar Plumbing Design <http://www.solarplumbingdesign.com>
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