The efficiency of the collector tube on a
winter day (based on net absorber area).
Tests on Thermomax Collectors have shown
efficiencies higher than 86%. On average,
70% of available solar energy is delivered
as useable heat. Even on a winters day
Thermomax can heat water to 80C or 176F. A
hot shower, by comparison, is only 105F.
How
Much Hot Water Will Thermomax Supply?
Thermomax systems are capable of producing
100% of your hot water requirements on an
annual basis. A low-cost Thermomax system
would supply 100% of your hot water during
the summer months and a significant
proportion during the winter.
How
Safe is The Thermomax System? It is totally safe.
Each collector tube self-limits at a
factory pre-set temperature, so there is
no risk of overheating.
The collectors continue to operate
efficiently at temperatures far below
freezing.
The only material in contact with
the water is copper, which is non-toxic.
Thermomax collectors have been
proven to withstand hailstorms as well
as high winds.
What
Can a Thermomax System Be Used For?
Thermomax systems have been chosen for a
wide variety of domestic and commercial
applications. These installations range from
domestic hot water systems, space heating,
pools, spas, and hot tubs to commercial
solar heating and air conditioning systems
in airport terminals, hospitals, laundromats,
car washes and hotels.
Could
a Thermomax System Heat My House? Yes it could. There are a number of
important factors to consider.
The area you live in - areas with
good winter radiation are excellent,
even in cold weather.
How the house is heated - radiant
floor heating systems are best, as they
operate at low temperatures.
House design - open plan or high
ceiling homes are excellent for radiant
heating.
A full backup system should always
be provided. This can be a conventional
boiler, however, lately we have had
demand for linking to wood stoves or
external wood boilers. This is very
practical - especially for those who
wish to substantially reduce their bills
- or even move "off grid".
We recommend that house heating be
combined with a summer applications,
e.g. a pool or spa
What
About Installation?
Thermomax Collectors are light and modular
and can usually be installed in one day by a
qualified professional. They are supplied
with a marine grade stainless steel frame
and, being lightweight, they will attach
easily to your existing structure. The solar
tubes allow air to circulate around them and
will not trap moisture or debris. Methods of
getting the heat into the water are as
follows.
In areas prone to freezing - The
collector is connected to a heat
exchanger, usually in the hot water
tank, and a non-toxic propylene glycol
antifreeze is used to transfer the heat
down. This system is excellent for
multiple applications and is very
versatile.
Warm non-freezing climates - In
these areas a direct connection can be
made to a tank, even an existing on
using a special fitting, simplifying
installation and lowering costs.
What
About Maintenance?
No collector maintenance is required. The
glass tubes are round and perfectly smooth;
any dirt or dust is carries away by the wind
and rain. There are no moving parts to wear
out. All components are made from high-grade
stainless steel, copper or non-corrosive
materials.
Is
The Thermomax Collector A Proven Product?
Thermomax has a successful history of over
sixteen years of operation in over forty
countries around the world. There are over
two million tubes in every-day use in over
sixty thousand locations worldwide. There
are hundreds of installations in North
America, from the Canadian North to the
deserts of the Southwest.
Will
A Thermomax Collector Suit My Needs?
Thermomax has a network of qualified dealers around
North America able to advise you. We provide
technical support and can advise on most
situations.
