Innovative solutions
for new constructions and modifications
of solar-assisted heating systems
Who we are
We are a heating system construction company
that incorporates renewable energy into its projects wherever possible.
We have been working in this area on the Costa Vicentina in Portugal since 2002.
We specialize in the construction and modification of solar-assisted heating systems.
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Systems combined with solid fuel boilers
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Systems combined with heating inserts
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Systems combined with heat pumps
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Wall heating
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Underfloor heating
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Pumped solar thermal systems
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Thermosiphon systems
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Domestic water supply
Choosing the technique
Choosing the technique
Since every person has different needs, there is no standard solution that fits all.
That is why it is advantageous to contact us as early as the planning stage of a project, for example, to avoid additional costs later on.
In particular, it is often easy to “forget” to allow space for technical equipment.
There are also various solutions for installing solar collectors which, if planned in advance, can be better integrated into the overall project.
Below, we would like to give you a brief overview of the system.
For detailed information and proposed solutions for your individual situation, please contact us..
Solar water heating
Solar water heating
Pumped system
In a pumped solar system, the hot water tank is located in the house, for example, in a room that is as central as possible.
There is a regulator that compares the temperatures in the collectors and the tank to switch on the circulation pump only when the temperature in the collector is higher than that in the tank.
The advantage of this system is:
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The accumulator is located in the house, i.e., close to the points of consumption
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The reservoir and other materials are protected from the weather and therefore have less heat loss
Disadvantages:
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Space is required for the hot water tank, the regulator, and the circulation pump
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Energy consumption by the circulation pump
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Higher acquisition costs
Thermosiphon system
In a thermosiphon system, the storage tank and collector are mounted together on the roof or separately on the ground.
The water heated by solar energy rises by thermal convection to the storage tank and passes through a heat exchanger, then returns cooled to the collector.
The advantage of this system is:
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No space required in the house, therefore often suitable as a retrofit solution
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No power consumption, as there is no circulation pump (except for heating element operation)
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More cost-effective than pumped systems
Disadvantages:
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More visually noticeable, as the tank is also visible
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Heavy weight on the roof
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Possibly long distances to the consumer
Heating systems
Heating systems
Wall heating
It works with low water temperatures and is very pleasant due to its high percentage of radiant heat.
It is less slow than underfloor heating, so you can feel the wall heating up about 15 minutes after turning on the heating.
It can also be installed in existing homes.
Radiators
They operate at higher temperatures than previous systems. This means they can also be operated directly with a water-heated fireplace, without the need for a buffer tank, for example. When installing in existing homes, the pipes can also be laid exposed, while in new buildings they are laid concealed or in the floor.
Underfloor heating
It works with low water temperatures and is highly appreciated as “invisible” heating.
Another advantage is, of course, that it does not result in cold floors (tiles). Adjustments must be made using individual thermostats in each room.
Installation in existing homes is only possible with considerable effort, which is why this system is mainly used in new buildings.
Wall and floor combination
By combining the two systems, you have the advantage of not having a cold floor and, at the same time, benefiting from radiant heat in areas of the house where you spend a lot of time, such as living rooms, offices, and bathrooms.
Combined systems
Combined heating/hot water systems
In combined systems, solar thermal collectors heat both hot water and heating water. The heating water is stored in a buffer tank, which feeds the radiant floor or wall heating. Since the sun isn't always shining, it's essential to have at least one additional heat source.
To cover your remaining heating needs, you can choose between different heat sources:
heat pump, water circulation stoves, which can also be independent, pellet burners or a gas boiler.
The combination of a heat pump and a water-circulating stove has the advantage of providing a visible fireplace in the living room and, thanks to the heat pump, ensuring that the heating continues to operate without interruption.
Integrating a pool heating system is also easy to implement in this type of system.
Facility maintenance
For optimal operation and to ensure all warranty services, we recommend annual maintenance of the system in question.
Costs vary depending on the type of installation and must be agreed upon individually.
Contact
Signosol Canalização/Climatização Unipessoal Lda.
Relva Grande/Macheira
Apt.50
7630-908 São Teotónio
Portugal
CAP Solar: Nº 09/SOL/15338
signosol©me.com