Smart control of the solar water heating system

Gašper Mis (2016) Smart control of the solar water heating system. EngD thesis.

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Abstract

The thesis explores options for optimising heating of sanitary water with the use of solar panels and the electric heater. Since electricity is cheaper at night, it would be reasonable to determine whether the electric heater should only be additionally heated at night alone. A smart controller was assembled, which starts the heater on the basis of weather forecasts and estimated consumption of hot water, thereby mostly only at night and if necessary. Hardware is responsible for reading data from temperature sensors and starting the electric heater. The software part of the system obtains a weather forecast from e-mail and starts the heater on the basis of forecast analysis and anticipated use of hot water. An analysis of algorithm functioning was performed, which compared the effectiveness of the algorithm in different scenarios of collectors’ sun exposure. The effectiveness of each algorithm was established on the basis of the cost of electricity necessary for the provision of domestic hot water. It has been concluded that in this case, heating water during night time alone is not worthwhile because the heat loss of the heater is too significant. Efficacy of the algorithm was compared assuming half smaller losses and better isolation of the heater. It has been found that the algorithm is more efficient. An improved algorithm which heats water only for morning use and heats it during the day only when needed, was put to test as well. This algorithm was used as a final solution in the test environment, as it delivers the greatest savings.

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