This video includes full instructions on how to build it (w/materials list). Super hot water fast. reaches temps at or above 150F with air temps from high 40’s to low 50’s. A few features of the panel: full 1/2″ hard copper pipe (type L). hooks to a standard water tap/garden hose.via: desertsun02
source/image: desertsun02
Slim portable design (at only 2″ thick) and is very rugged and durable (built with 2×2’s and 1/2″ plywood). multiple panels can be hooked together for additional capacity and extras can be easily added; water flow valves, temp sensors, timers etc… couple of final thoughts. make sure to use type L copper (rated 0-400F 986psi).
Other choice is type M (only rated 100-150F) and will not hold up to temperature extremes.The smaller “internal board” is very important to the design – for a few reasons. 1.) it allows for the pipe to lay essentially flat inside of collector (because all the connection points are up in the air). 2.)
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It holds the pipe at the right height so it enters and exits thru the 3/4″ hole in the 2×2. 3.) it allows for the pipe to easily be removed from the collector (if extra work needs to be done on any of the solder joints – re-solder etc.) Lastly, to secure the glass into the frame, just use a bead of silicone caulk around the edge and drop the glass in.via/credit: desertsun02
