28/07/2025
Petflessen zonnecollector...
DIY solar water heater, nice idea 👍
🧰 Step-by-Step Instructions:
🔧 1. Prepare the Bottles
• Clean each plastic bottle thoroughly.
• Cut a hole in the bottom of each bottle (just large enough to insert the next bottle’s neck).
• Remove the cap of each bottle (they will slide into each other like a tunnel).
• Slide the bottles together neck into bottom to create a long protective tunnel for the pipe.
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🧵 2. Insert Black Tubing
• Cut black pipe/tubing to desired lengths (usually ~1.5 m per row).
• Insert the pipe through the center of the bottles.
• Make sure the tubing stays inside the bottles—this helps trap heat.
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🔩 3. Build the Support Frame
• Build a tilted frame using wood or metal to hold the bottle rows. A ~30–45° angle is ideal.
• Secure the pipe+bottle units to the frame using zip ties or clamps.
• Ensure the bottom is lower than the top so water flows down by gravity.
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🔁 4. Connect Water Inlet and Outlet
• Connect the top end of the black tubing rows to a cold water inlet from the elevated water tank.
• Connect the bottom end of the tubing rows to a return pipe that brings heated water back up to the tank or directly to a shower tap.
• Use PVC elbows and T-joints to join pipes.
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🌞 5. Set Up the System
• Place the water tank at least 30 cm higher than the top of the solar collector.
• Connect the tank to the collector and your water outlet (shower, sink).
• Fill the tank and check for leaks.
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🔥 6. Test It Under the Sun
• On a sunny day, water inside the black tubes will heat up to 40–60°C (104–140°F) after a few hours.
• Use during daylight or evening when water is still warm.
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💡 Tips for Better Performance:
• Use clear PET bottles for best sunlight pe*******on.
• Make sure the tubing is black to absorb maximum heat.
• Insulate the top and return pipes to avoid heat loss.
• Angle the collector to face the sun (south in northern hemisphere, north in southern).
