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Evacuated Tube or Flat Plate Collector? |
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Both evacuated tube and flat plate collectors are available from Alternative Power Distribution. Either will provide years of reliable service. The choice is dependent on many factors, and several are outlined below. Always consult with your installer to find the best fit for your situation. | | Evacuated Tube Collectors: Seido Models 1,2,5 | Flat Plate Collectors: Sunda Models SS 2.0-F/G and SS 2.0-T/L
| Performance | Best Performance in cold, cloudy, or windy conditions, such as SRCC categories 'D' or 'E'. Category 'C' performance is comparable to Flat Plate collectors. More consistent year round BTU production. Capable of producing higher temperatures. | Best performance in warm sunny conditions, such as SRCC categories 'A' and 'B'. Category 'C' performance is comparable to Evacuated Tube collectors. | Cost | Generally more expensive. However, when evaluated on a BTU per dollar basis in SRCC categories 'D' and "E', Evacuated Tube collectors are cost effective. Also consider labor costs, Evacuated Tube collectors require only one individual to assemble and install.
| Generally less expensive. Flat Plate collectors produce more BTU's per dollar in SRCC categories 'A' and 'B' and are comparable in category 'C'. Flat Plate collectors do require two or more installers to position on a roof. | Configuration | Closed loop: Acceptable for all SUNDA collectors. Drainback: Acceptable for SUNDA models Seido 1 and Seido 5. | Closed Loop: Acceptable for all SUNDA collectors. Drainback: Acceptable for all SUNDA Flat Plate collectors. | Visual Impact
| Evacuated Tube collectors have a modern high tech appearance. The design flexibility allows for many flush mount and low profile options.
| Flat Plate collectors have a traditional appearance and do perform best when installed facing south at the proper tilt.
| Installation | Light weight components and modular design make installation convenient, only one installer is necessary. | SUNDA Flat Plate collectors utilize a European standard in sizing. At 93 lbs and 93 x 79 in, they are easier to install than commonly sized Flat Plate collectors. They do require two or more installers to position on a rooftop safely. | Shipping | Individual components are boxed and ready to ship or load into your vehicle at our warehouse.
| Flat Plate collectors require careful handling as they are not individually packaged. |
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