Radiant Heat Systems

The Simple Drainback system is the perfect design for solar radiant systems. Here's why: The "load side" heat exchange design means that collector fluid, not potable water, is in the tank. Our radiant tanks have an internal dip tube that draws collector fluid from near the top of the tank from the BOTTOM of the tank, at the clean out port. After running through the floor loop, fluids are returned to the tank via the collector return loop. Simple, easy, and hightly effective.

The SHEM 32 controller is easily configured for radiant applications. With 3 temperature inputs and two pump outputs, the T3 sensor measures the difference between the floor and bottom of tank temperature. The second pump relay sends water to the floor loop based on that temperature differential. High temp shut off is accomplished with a simple Acquastat.

COLLECTOR SIZING: Think of the collectors as the solar engine, and the heat exchange tank as the transmission. The maximum engine size for a SHEM tank is a function of flow through the tank orifices. Due to pipe size limitations, the maximum number of collectors per tank is 5- 4' by 10' flat plate collectors or 5 sets of 30 tube collectors. BTU production for this size of collector array is readily determinable. Whatever the amount of btu available, the SHEM tank can move it straight into your radiant system.

One more thought on the cost effectiveness of solar assisted radiant heat. Solar collector effectiveness is a function of fluid temperature entering the collector. SHEM tanks stratify greatlly. Cold water is taken from the bottom of the tank, while warmer water for the floor loop is drawn from higher in the tank. That means better collector efficiency. And, since your radiant system will last 25-30 years, this difference can truly add up to additional savings.

SHEM radiant tanks are custom built. Please be sure to specify the radiant feature when ordering a tank for radiant use. Radiant tanks have special internal dip tubes not found in regular tanks. Radiant tanks cost an additional $75 above the price of a drainback tank.