Description |
Epoch Vacuum Tube Solar Heaters |
Traditional Panel-Collector Solar Heaters |
Absorption Rate (%) |
Above 93% (up to 97%) |
Below 80% |
Heat Loss Rate (%) |
Less then 6% |
More than 20% |
Total Heating
Efficiency (%) |
Above 85% |
Below 60% |
Heating Temperature |
250℃~300℃ |
103℃ |
Maximum Water Temperature |
100℃ (steam) |
85℃ |
Installation |
Unlimited (works even if it snows) |
Only in tropics & subtropics |
Maintenance |
Easy to assemble and install |
Heavy and bulky, complicated to install |
Repair |
Easy DIY maintenance |
Professional technician required |
Life |
Individual components can be repaired or replaced quickly. |
Need to replace the whole set |
Expectancy |
Vacuum tubes are more durable than traditional metal tubes; will not rust, corrode or become blocked. |
Easy to become corroded and blocked; requires frequent cleaning. Heating efficiency degrades easily. |
Characteristics of Absorption |
Can absorb both ultraviolet and infrared rays |
Absorbs only infrared rays |
Water Applicability |
Can even be used with sea water or at hot springs |
Must use clean household water |
Heat Conduction |
Directly from the vacuum tubes to the water |
Sunlight→Glass→Copper tubes→(heat medium)→Water |
Heat Retention |
Vacuum tubes retain more heat |
Traditional solar collectors lose heat rapidly. |
Structure
|
Vacuum tubes are made from high density, high quality materials. |
Copper tubes have rough surfaces which can easily corrode. |
Vacuum tubes will not clog |
Tubes become easily blocked. |
