How solar panels work
Solar panels trap the sun and convert its energy into heat.
Catching the sun
Water circulating through a solar panel is heated by the sun's rays. A glass plate lets the sun in, while other layers prevent the heat from being reflected away. The heat is then transferred to a heating system.
1. Solar panels
The six panels in a solar panel are made from different materials. They are:
Top layer
- Glass
- Teflon
- An absorbent layer
Bottom layer
- Aluminium
- Mineral wool
- An insulating bottom plate
2. Insulated tank
The heat is stored in an insulated tank. It can also be stored in hollowed-out rock, or in a covered ’pool’.
3. Heating
The hot water is conducted into the house and used for heating.
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