A hybrid collector does two things at once: On the one hand, it converts solar energy into electricity and, on the other, into heat that can be used to heat shower water, for example. The dual function of hybrid collectors is so useful because they combine photovoltaics and solar thermal energy. This means that homeowners do not have to decide which system to install on their roof, but instead generate electricity and hot water in one system.
In addition, hybrid collectors have many other advantages. For example, if too much heat is produced, the hybrid collectors dissipate it and store it for use at another time. This means that no heat is lost, nor is there any risk of overheating. The heat generated from a hybrid collector can be used in a variety of ways. In addition to heating drinking water, the warm water can also be used for regenerative heating. These include, for example, low-temperature heating systems or air-source heat pumps.
If a hybrid collector is connected to a heat pump heating system, abundant solar energy can be obtained even on clear, cold winter days. This combination would thus replace a geothermal collector. Hybrid collectors are very space-saving. They are placed close to each other on the roof, so that even a smaller roof area can be completely utilized for energy production.
Source: energiesparen-im-haushalt.de
© fotolia.com
