Military Prefers Non-pressurized Solar Thermal Systems

The military has asked me to provide their engineers with regular webinars describing the advantages of non-pressurized (drain back) solar thermal systems over pressurized (glycol) systems. This is a good thing. The military has recognized the benefits of low maintenance and lower cost associated with the drain back design.

Our solar hot water system installed at the new Walter Reed Naval Hospital is a shining example of this.

Historically, the military has played a very important role in helping emerging technologies develop within industries. Not that solar thermal is new by any means, but the industry still has some growing up to do. This growth must be driven by demand. As the military helps with demand growth, our industry can continue to streamline manufacturing and installation processes that will eventually lead to lower costs for the average user.

Take a listen to the first twenty minutes or so of one of my most recent presentations to military engineers from across the country. There are plenty of valuable tidbits in this snippet for any engineer or designer considering a solar thermal installation.

If you have any questions or thoughts to share, leave them in the comment section below.

I hope you enjoy!
Dr. Ben