These systems use liquid or air to absorb solar radiation in a device called a collector. The stored heat can then be distributed through a building's existing heat system.
The cost of an active solar heating system is determined by the size of the house, the existing heating system and local climate. But a system using 4-6 collectors to provide heat for a 2,000 square foot house can cost between $15,000 and $20,000, according to Apricus Solar, a global solar thermal systems company.
In terms of efficiency, the right active solar heating system can provide 40% to 80% of a home's heating needs, according to the Department of Energy.
During the winter, however, active solar heating systems are not capable of entirely replacing a conventional heating system.
But active solar heating systems can also cut down on other utility costs by heating water during the summer.
RSS
