Solar space heaters made from recycled aluminium cans

Like most older buildings in Nova Scotia, heating is a major concern, especially as oil prices continue to rise. Each of the two solar space-heating panels will reduce heating costs over a thousand square feet by approximately 20%. Our building is 7000 sq. ft., so it’s just a start—but it’s a good start.

A ConserveNS rebate helped offset the cost by $1300 (or 15%), the remainder of which was paid for by a development grant from the CBRM.

(Cost per unit is approximately $3500, $7000 for two, but our installation was a little tricky, due to a fire wall in the basement staircase, requiring additional materials and labour.)

The units are manufactured in Newfoundland by Cansolair Inc.; and were installed by the fine folks of Solar Advantage, in Westmount.

For more info about programs, rebates, and other grants, visit conservens.ca or call 1-800-670-4636.

How it will help

Each panel is expected to reduce heating costs per thousand square feet by approximately 20%. The Coastal Discovery Centre is approximately 7000 sq. ft., so this means a 20% in reduction in 1/3 of the building; an overall reduction of 6% or 7%. Not much, but it’s a start. And as part of an overall retrofit, each piece plays it part. The goal is to raise the funds necessary to install one unit per thousand square feet – 7 in all.

How it works

Each unit contains 240 recycled aluminum cans, covered in super heat-absorbent black paint and stacked on top of each 15 at a time to form columns, 16 in all. An intake vent draws cool air from inside the building and pipes it through the columns, heating it up before piping it back into the building. The intake/outtake creates a current, and the whole unit runs on less electricity than a light bulb (only what’s needed to power the fan in the intake vent).

Tips for inexpensive/free home heating savings

Home heating costs can be reduced by sealing air leaks around windows and doors using weather-stripping and/or caulking. This will also make your home comfortable in the winter. Turning down the heat when out, and at night, will typically cut home heating bills by 15% (a programmable thermostat can help).

Insulation in your home’s attic, walls and basement mean less energy is needed for heating. Upgrades can typically improve a home’s energy efficiency by 15%.

Posted by Mike Targett | Email a comment