The Survival Podcast Steven Harris on Solar Heating Systems – Friday Flashbacks – Epi-72
Apr 18, 2025
Steven Harris, an expert on solar heating systems and author on solar energy, returns to share insights on innovative solar heating solutions. He emphasizes how solar heat can provide a faster ROI than traditional electricity systems. Listeners learn how to build cost-effective systems from simple materials, making sustainable living more accessible. He also discusses low-tech heating strategies for greenhouses and the importance of community resilience in emergencies, highlighting practical DIY tips alongside engaging in audience questions.
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Efficiency of Solar Heating
- Solar heating offers the most efficient use of solar energy with the fastest return on investment.
- Using the sun's heat directly is far better than converting solar power to electricity for heating.
Use Solar Hot Air Not Water
- Heat air directly with solar collectors and store excess heat in rocks or water containers.
- Avoid heating water first as it has over three times more heat loss than heating air directly.
Insulate Greenhouses at Night
- Use insulation like movable curtains or sliding foam panels to cover greenhouses at night.
- Blocking the greenhouse's exposure to the cold nighttime sky dramatically reduces heat loss.