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Freeze Protection for Solar Water Heating SystemsFreeze protection for solar water heating systems can be achieved anywhere freezing temperatures exist… even Antarctica.The success of solar heating in Antarctica happened because they have adequate solar panel freeze protection – the coldest place on Earth. So… you can discount the myth that a solar water heater won't work in a cold climate. You can use solar hating in your climate. Solar water heating systems can be used anywhere freezing temperatures exist. 
At the Australian Antarctica base at Davis, a standard Solahart solar water heating system was installed. This system is currently supplying one hundred percent of the hot water for personal and laundry use in the summer season. That’s when the Sun shines. Ok – if the Australian’s can make solar hot water work in Antarctica, you can do it where you live. Protecting solar panels from freezing works in cold climates, like this residence in the Denver Colorado area. In colder northern climates the design requires additional solar panels or highl efficient panels to compensate for the cold climate. This is where your local solar professional can provide you with an adequate design. The most important planning consideration when selecting a solar water heater system is protection from freezing temperatures. The Solar Rating and Cetification Corporation (SRCC) has rated solar heating manufacurers systems with a freze tolerance limt. Go to
SRCC Annual Performance Search
to determine the "Freeze Tollerant Limit" for a manufactures system. The highest incidents of solar water heater failure are due to improper or no protection from freezing temperatures. A majority of systems that fair because they are not suited for their climate. Just where doesn’t it freeze?The map below shows the probability of a least one-pipe freeze in 20 years in the United States. The only location where the probability is zero is along parts of the California and Florida coasts.
Probability of a least one pipe freeze in 20 years. Courtesy NREL. The insulation placed around the solar panel and piping is not adequate for solar panel freeze protection. This insulation enhances the system performance by keeping water in the system hot. Warm Climate
Cold ClimateActive Indirect (Closed Loop) with evacuated tube solar heating panels.When selecting a solar water heating system great care should be taken to select a solar water heater suited for the climate. Consult with your local solar professional before purchasing a solar water heater. Return from Freeze Protection for Solar Water Heating Systems to Solar Heating Today Home
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