Solar Air Heating
Problem statement
A comfortable living environment is a crucial aspect to maintaining a well-balanced healthy life. In a cold environment, an affordable and sustainable method to make this happen is a solar air heater. Our client, Professor Timothy Szczykutowicz is looking for a way to test the efficiency of a solar air heater with a quaking absorber to keep his cabin temperature above freezing during Wisconsin’s winter months. Current solar air heating solutions available on the market are fairly expensive, with several priced at $899+ [1], but are efficient enough to reduce between 10-50% of the conventional heating load [2]. Other DIY options have been posted to YouTube which cost less than $100, but may be inefficient at capturing thermal energy due to incorrect installation and significant heat loss from the heater [3]. Analyzing and optimizing the efficiency of the solar heater design allows homeowners to maintain comfortable temperature controlled space, while also taking meaningful steps towards contributing to positive environmental change. References [1] “1500 series, gen 2 solar air heater,” Arctica Solar. [Online]. Available: http://www.arcticasolar.com/product/1500.html. [Accessed: 10-Feb-2022]. [2] “Solar-Heated Fresh Air Cuts Heating Costs,” NREL, 1994. [Online]. Available: http://www.solarairheating.org/media/NREL%20Technology%20Brief.pdf. [Accessed: 10-Feb-2022]. [3] desertsun02. “DIY Solar Air Heater! The “STEEL PANEL” Solar Air Heater! -New! biggest! hottest! Best Yet! EZ Build.” YouTube video, 11:58. March 31, 2020. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gNldYoeRYF0&ab_channel=desertsun02
Team members
Michael Johnson – leader
Logan Brown – communicator
Luke Hyndiuk – accountant
Joseph Simon – admin
Client
Dr. Szczykutowicz