Correlation for the routine estimation of performance of solar domestic hot water systems

Abstract

Chart-based procedures for determining the useful energy output from solar domestic hot water (DHW) systems are derived from the correlation of results of multiple detailed performance simulations. One such procedure is that available since 1989 in the relevant British Standard, which is limited to giving the total annual output from systems operated in the UK. On the basis of fundamental physical principles, it is now seen that chart co-ordinates can be chosen such that the correlation condenses to a single curve. This provides a convenient and transparent process for estimating the Solar Load Fraction for any system, location and period, suitable for use by system designers, manufacturers, specifiers and users of all kinds.

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