We have created a solar water heating kit ordering process thats allow even an inexperienced installer to order a complete installation-ready system with total confidence that the design is right, that the solar equipment order includes everything that's needed, and that all of the components are compatible. Starting with one of several basic kits, we work with you to modify the kit, add options, as needed. All contractor package kits comes with system design assistance, all of the solar components that are needed, and complete technical support during and after installation.

Evacuated Tube Collector - Flush Mount		Flat Panel Collector - Flush Mount

Compare: Review Evacuated Tube Collectors vs. Flat Panel Collectors

The first decision is the type of solar thermal collector to use. In general, if your winters are cold and you want the system to work all year, or if you need extremely hot water for a special process, you need an evacuated tube collector. They cost a little more but will work even in below-freezing weather. However, if your winters are mild you can save money with a flat panel solar collector. See technology and performance differences here comparison of flat panel solar collectors and evacuated tube solar collectors.

Compare: Review Closed Loop vs. Drainback Systems

Drainback systems are generally used for residential systems to prevent summer overheating and/or winter freezing. When the sun goes down and the collectors begin to cool off, the heat transfer fluid drains back into an indoor tank to prevent overnight freezing. During the day if the tank becomes saturated with heat and the collectors approach max temperature, the systems will stop and drain itself. The downside is that if there is a daytime load on the tank after the system has drained back, the load will be un-met because a drainback system will not restart until the next morning. A drainback system may also be a little more complex to design and install.

Closed loop solar thermal systems are ideal for customers with higher hot water usage, or with hot water usage throughout the day, or with larger storage tanks. A food-grade glycol is added to the heat transfer fluid to prevent freezing, and heat dissipaters (like a radiator) can be attached to the collector to prevent the collector from overheating. The collector is always available for thermal production and can respond to water heating demand throughout the day. One downside is that during a power failure the system could overheat, unless the building has backup generator power or if the pump is powered by a small solar PV panel.

Features of all SPP Solar Thermal Contractor Packages

• Top-Rated Buy American Act Compliant Collectors: With billions of BTUs of solar thermal installed, SPP collectors are the choice of Fortune 500, U.S. military, schools and local governments, and countless homeowners.
• All-Stainless: Top grade frame and mounting hardware.
• Professional Grade Components: We supply only top name brand pumps, controllers, and other components.
• Design & Technical Support: The best engineering and tech support in the industry to help you from start to finish.
• Freeze Protection: Non-toxic Corn Glycol or drainback tank
• No Overheating: Includes heat dissipater or drainback tank.
• SRCC certified for federal tax credits.
• Complete. We know what you need, it's all in the box.

Exterior Wall Mount (Awning Mount)		Ground Mounted Evacuated Tube Collector

Most residential solar thermal systems are mounted flush to the roof as shown at the top of the page, which is the preferred option when there is available roof space facing in a generally southern direction. Shown immediately above are installation options for when there is no available roof with a southern orientation. Collectors can also be mounted east or west facing with somewhat reduced performance. Collectors cannot be mounted in a northern direction in the US.