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Kalwall - Model Sun-Lite -Thermal Storage Tubes
Water contained in low cost, non-pressurized cylinders has proven to be the most practical and effective approach to the capture and storage of thermal energy for space and hot water heating. Water stores 3 to 4 times as many BTU’s per lb. as rock or masonry. It also releases this heat energy faster when you really need it. With over 35,000 units in use worldwide, Sun-Lite® Solar Storage Tubes are the most efficient and cost-effective way to store solar thermal energy and keep your greenhouse or sunspace cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
How do they work?
Sun-lite® Thermal Storage Tubes work by absorbing the excess heat energy generated in your greenhouse or sunspace during the day and releasing it at night to effectively control the large temperature swings between day and night. Think of them as heat sinks. The cooler you can keep your greenhouse or sunspace during the day the less heat you lose through your glazing or window areas. The stored heat in the tubes through simple thermo-dynamics will automatically release itself into the space when the air temperature drops below the water temperature in the tubes. No moving parts.
How many do I need?
The general rule of thumb is 2 to 3 gallons of water per each sq. ft. of south facing glazing. An example is if your greenhouse has a south facing wall that is 12′ long x 8′ high you would need somewhere between 192 to 288 gallons of water. In this example four to six 12″ diameter x 8′ tall tubes would work, or you could use any combination of the sizes that we offer. See specification chart at the bottom of the page. We can also make custom heights to fit your needs.