SOLAR HEATER GUIDELINES

One

Allow sunlight in but trap heat in (greenhouse effect). 2nd most important!

Glass or plexiglass, double paned with air space between works best

Plastic wrap is too thin

Two

Increase the surface area of the water so it will heat quickly

Three

Water should be in or around a conductor (for rapid heat transfer)

Metal is good

Four

The areas containing the water should be black to absorb heat

Five

Insulate outer areas of project to prevent heat transfer

Especially the Ground Over insulation keeps light from entering

and will DROP the temperature

Six

Use of reflectors or mirrors to concentrate light and heat onto water

Difficult to get the right angle due to moving sun

Least important

Seven

Angle object 45 degrees to the SOUTHWEST

MOST IMPORTANT!!!!!!!!!!