My project needs to build a thermal solar panel that would be used as a demonstrational rig. The dimensions i am allowed do not allow me to use a normal thermal solar panel so i have decided to use the heat exchanger from the back of a fridge. Although this is possible to use what equation would i use to prove the power of the sun would actually heat up the water. More importantly when the rig is demonstrated to students, they will need to be able to determine if the raise in temperature given by the thermometers is what should be given. Variables of the rig will include: Angle of the panel, Light intensity, Direction of panel, and more importantly the flow rate of the water travelling through the pipes. What equation includes those variables (change in temperature, flow rate) and would allow me to incorporate the angle of the panel. The light source would be a lamp so i would also need to know how much of the energy from the lamp is actually being used by the panel?
Forget the long winded discussion above. There are so many variables that you cannot calculate the outcome. This does not mean that the experiment is a failure. It gives you information on the fact that water can be heated in this manner, and that you can vary the result by modifying the variables.
If you only use it for demonstrational . 75W-00W small solar panels would be that you are looking for, you can use it heat up the water. With simple guide you can do it yourself easily and cheaply.
solar panels don't store energy, they only generate it. If you want to store energy you need a battery bank of some kind to get you through the night and anytime the sun isn't shining. If you have a little extra in the budget you might look at a geothermal system for your home's heating and cooling needs. They're highly efficient systems and you can supplement however you like. Whatever you do, though I hope you have a good building envelope in place already. Solar panels are cool, but if you have a leaky house, you're still not getting the best out of your panels. Do the more mundane stuff first. Insulation, windows, and weather-tight doors.
