Thermosiphon Systems
Thermosiphon systems call on Mother Nature to circulate water through the solar collectors to the storage tank using the thermosiphon principle that hot water rises naturally, hence eliminating the need for circulating pumps or other moving parts. Chromagen's thermosiphon systems are the most straightforward, economically viable and energy efficient designs available. A gas or electric backup booster provides energy during cloudy weather, so you can have plenty of hot water when you need it.

The thermosiphon system includes:

• Solar collector(s) of your choice
• Storage tank sized to suit your requirements
• Connecting Kit
• Tank sizes vary from 150 to 300 litres so there’s a size to suit your particular needs.

Depending on your location and climate you may choose an Open-Loop or Closed-Loop system.

Open-Loop System: Suitable for warm climates

In Open-Loop Systems the water circulates through the solar collectors and is heated directly by the sun. These systems are suitable for climates that are mostly frost-free and have good water quality.

Closed-Loop System: Suitable for cooler climates

Closed loop systems utilise a heat exchanger to heat the water indirectly with the sun. They are particularly useful in frost prone areas and areas with poor water quality.

Review the benefits for Householders HERE

Forced Circulation Systems
Sometimes known as pumped, split or forced circulation, these systems typically have the storage tank separated from the solar collectors, with the tank located at ground level and the collectors on the roof.

Individual homes
A pump and control unit are utilised to ensure correct water circulation. This allows the collectors to be situated away from the tank. For example, the tank may be situated in a basement while the collectors remain on the roof.

Unlike uncontrolled thermosiphon systems, there is no chance of wasting water from overheating because the solar controller automatically stops the water circulating once the storage tank is full of hot water. It also has inbuilt frost protection for marginal frost areas.

Freezing and hard water protection
Although Chromagen open loop systems have inbuilt freeze protection for marginal frost areas, in locations where severe frosts or snow can occur, or where hard water supplies are prevalent, a Chromagen closed loop model should be installed. In this unique design, the solar collector panels are connected to a highly efficient heat exchanger inside the storage tank. The closed loop is filled with a special heat transfer fluid that won’t freeze and only the highly durable tank is exposed to the hard water supply.

Apartment houses
Chromagen has developed a unique solution for apartment houses to ensure hot water around the clock. Each apartment has an individual tank with all the tanks connected to a central collector cluster. A pump ensures continuous water circulation of hot water to each apartment.

Review the benefits for Householders HERE