SunCache Solar Water Heating
What is SunCache?
SunCache is a low-cost residential solar water heater that is nearing production and market introduction. It is an Integral Collector/Storage (ICS) type solar water heating system. SunCache is available in two configurations: glazed and unglazed.
What makes SunCache special?
SunCache costs less than half the current lowest-priced, code approved, and industry certified solar water heating system, including installation costs. Prices of conventional systems are rising due to their high copper and aluminum content. SunCache is made mostly from plastics (although all potable water is contained in copper) with high-quality stainless steel mounting equipment. SunCache is sold as a kit including all plumbing and installation hardware to lower installation cost and ensure that all code requirements are met. The installers have only to provide piping. SunCache will be the only system approved for installation with PEX tubing, reducing installation cost and improving freeze-resistance over copper piping. Installation is simple, fast and reliable. Installers with basic plumbing and construction experience can be trained in one day. SunCache is made entirely in California.
How was SunCache developed?
SunCache was developed by Davis Energy Group (DEG) in partnership with SunEarth Inc. of Fontana, California, the largest solar water heater manufacturer in the U.S. Significant support came from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) of the U.S. Department of Energy. NREL has contributed more than $1.5M to SunCache R&D since 2000.
How does SunCache work?
SunCache preheats cold water before it enters a conventional water heater. With the conventional water heater maintaining the desired setpoint, homeowners are only aware of SunCache operation from their lowered utility bills. The heart of SunCache is a rotationally-molded polyethylene panel that contains about 50 gallons of water. The water remains in the panel forever (requiring a top-off only every 5 years) and serving as thermal storage. Submerged in the panel is a serpentine copper heat exchanger that contains the pressurized potable water. Heat from the storage water warms the potable water as it passes through the heat exchanger before it enters the conventional water heater tank. A thermoformed acrylic glazing is optional for additional performance.
What is the target market for SunCache?
SunCache can be easily installed in both new construction and retrofit applications. As with all ICS type systems, it is best suited to Sunbelt locations where the freeze risk is moderate. When installed with PEX tubing, SunCache can tolerate a moderate freeze without damage.
How has SunCache been tested?
DEG and SunEarth have conducted a rigorous durability testing program to identify and correct all design weaknesses. Controlled laboratory and field testing have streamlined the assembly and installation process and confirmed SunCache durability.
What type of certification does SunCache have?
SunCache will be certified by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). SunCache has passed the technical review at SRCC for durable and safe operation, and for compliance with building codes and practices. SunCache is now undergoing performance testing at the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC) to establish the SRCC Solar Energy Factor (SEF) for both SunCache configurations. Upon completion of performance testing, SunCache will qualify for most current rebates, including the federal solar tax credit of 30% of installed cost. For more information on state-by-state rebates, refer to http://www.dsireusa.org.
When will SunCache be available and how can I buy one?
SunCache will be available in limited quantities in the Sacramento area in mid-2007. Availability will expand starting in 2008.
How can I learn more about SunCache?
Contact Eric Lee