Implementation of a solar heater prototype to evaluate temperature variations inside a study room in the city of Loja

Abstract

Introduction. Ecuador, like many regions in the developing world, faces the need to promote awareness and adoption of renewable energy sources. Solar thermal energy is commonly used for heating domestic water; however, this article explores its application in space heating. Objective. This study aims to evaluate the temperature variations induced by a solar heater prototype using water and oil as thermal fluids, to determine the temperature inside an experimental model box installed in a study room. Methodology. This is a quantitative study. A solar heater prototype was designed and installed, consisting of a heater box and a closed-loop circuit of ½-inch steel coiled tubing. This system heats a thermal fluid—either water or oil—which acts as a heat carrier from the solar heater box to the experimental box installed in a study room of a residential home in the city of Loja. Temperature variations were measured using a Testo 174H temperature logger and a multimeter with a temperature probe over a period of 24 days. Results. After analyzing the data collected, an increase of 6.72 °C was observed when using water, and 1.92 °C when using oil, inside the experimental box installed in the study room. Conclusion. Once the research was completed, it was concluded that the temperature inside the experimental model box installed in the study room increased when using the solar heater prototype with both water and oil as thermal fluids. General Area of Study: Sustainable Architecture. Specific area of study: Renewable Energy in Buildings. Type of study: Original.