Hybrid Water Systems - Features

 

Hybrid Storage Tank
 
Hybrid Water systems can be complicated with valves, expansion tanks and other hardware.  Glycol or oil can be used to transfer heat. 
 
SWT Energy does not believe in complicating these systems.   Hybrid systems are more efficient when they use water as a heat transfer fluid and the drainback technology is used to store and transfer heat energy.    This not only makes the system more efficient but is also safer.  There is no fear of contamination from glycol or oils entering the water supply.  It is also free from dangers high pressure and high temperature concerns. 
 
The storage tanks that SWT Energy offers are stainless steel tanks that are designed to fit through a standard door opening to make it easier to retrofit existing construction.  The tanks are insulated on site with standard construction materials available from your local lumber store.   Connections to the tank are made with standard pipe connections and copper piping. 
 
A 38 gallon tank is located inside the storage tank to provide preheated water for domestic hot water use.  It is pressurized and requires no pumps.  It is protected by a check valve and a pressure valve.  It is a single wall stainless steel tank for high efficiency and longevity. 
 
The tank is self-supporting.  It has a 10 year no leak guarantee.   It is constructed of 304 stainless steel.  
 

Hybrid Collectors and Accessories
 
The solar collectors and accessories are the same components used to construct domestic hot water systems.  Larger collector arrays are typically the only difference.
 
See AETsolar.com for collector, electronic controls, pumps, etc.
 

Hybrid Furnace Connections
 
SWT Energy Inc. provides a couple ways to convert water heat to space heating for conditioned space via the standard furnace system. 
 
One allows a heat exchanger to be fabricated to fit the supply side of the furnace ductwork.  This requires the assistance of a heating or sheet metal contractor for proper fit.  Another device can be easily installed from either supply or return air ductwork.   SWT Energy's "Furnace Mate" provides the simpliest application for the do-it-yourself installation.   This unit takes the guesswork out of the installation and removes the dangers of restricting air flow through the existing ductwork design.
 
Both systems require simple electronic controls which are added on the low voltage side of the furnace.  These allow the furnace to operate in the solar heating mode or the backup heating mode.  This is similar to heat pump connections.   No modifications are needed to the furnace or thermostats.