Q: What are the main differences between the SR510 and SR868C8 solar system controllers?
A: The SR510 is typically designed for smaller or more basic solar water heating systems. It offers essential functions such as temperature monitoring and basic system controls. The SR868C8, on the other hand, is a more advanced controller suitable for larger and more complex systems, providing a wider range of features including various temperature protection functions, customizable settings, and advanced energy-saving strategies.
Q: When would I choose the SR510 over the SR868C8?
A: The SR510 is ideal if you have a straightforward, single-panel solar water heating setup and require basic temperature control and monitoring. It's a cost-effective option that covers fundamental needs without the bells and whistles of more sophisticated units.
Q: In what scenario is the SR868C8 the preferred choice?
A: Choose the SR868C8 if your solar heating system is more extensive, with multiple panels or you require detailed control over different aspects of the system. It’s also the go-to if you live in an area with variable weather conditions and need robust protective features like frost protection and overheating prevention.
Q: Can the SR868C8 manage more complex solar heating setups than the SR510?
A: Yes, the SR868C8 is built to handle complex configurations with multiple inputs and outputs, various sensor integrations, and the ability to manage auxiliary heat sources. It's designed for systems that demand a higher level of interaction and functionality.
Q: Is there a significant price difference between the SR510 and SR868C8?
A: Generally, the SR868C8 is priced higher due to its advanced features and capabilities. The SR510, being more basic, is typically less expensive, making it suitable for those on a tighter budget or with simpler solar heating needs.
Q: Which controller should I buy if I'm concerned about energy efficiency?
A: Both controllers can improve energy efficiency, but the SR868C8 has more advanced features for energy management. If optimizing energy use and reducing costs is a priority, the SR868C8 might be the better investment.
Q: How do I decide which solar system controller is right for my home?
A: Consider the complexity of your solar heating system, your specific control needs, the climate you live in, and your budget. For basic, cost-effective control, the SR510 is sufficient. For advanced functionality, customization, and additional protective features, the SR868C8 is the superior choice.
]]>Identify the areas where you will be installing RadiantShield insulation, such as walls, ceilings, or floors.
Consider your insulation needs. Are you in a hot climate and want to insulate an entire wall or area? Or are you simply looking to insulate part of an area (i.e., behind a heater or boiler).
For each section where insulation will be applied, measure the height and width to calculate the square footage.
Example 1: A single wall in a garage that is 2.5m high and 5m long.
Insulation needs: 2.5m * 5m = 12.5m2
Example 2: Three walls in a garage. Both side walls measure 2.5m * 5m. The back wall measures 2.5m * 2m.
Insulation needs: (2.5m * 5m) + (2.5m * 5m) + (2.5m * 2m) = 29.75m2
When measuring insulation needs for a ceiling, note that a flat ceiling is different to a sloped ceiling (like an angled roof of a garage or warehouse).
Measure a flat ceiling by measuring the base and length of the room.
Measure a sloped ceiling by measuring the length and the “run” (sloped edge) of the ceiling. If you can’t get up to measure the run, a general rule of thumb is measure the length and width of the room and then add 10%.
Example 3: A flat ceiling in a room that is 5m * 5m.
Insulation needs: 5m * 5m = 25m2
Example 4: A sloped ceiling in a room that is 5m * 5m. The height of the ceiling is 2m.
Insulation needs: (5m *5m) + 10% = 27.5m2
RadiantShield insulation needs to be connected from edge to edge, and in some cases, you may need to create a minor overlap of material to ensure proper thermal barrier.
Also, consider a small additional percentage for cutting and fitting waste, especially in areas with complex shapes.
Consider the complexity of your project (i.e., if you have to overlap material or if you have complex shapes) and consider adding a small buffer to your total needs. In our experience, 5-10% is a safe measure.
Get a little extra, as it’s better to have just a bit over than not enough. Sometimes, having extra material (for mistakes or things you didn’t consider) will help keep your project moving.
Keep offcuts for complex shapes or tight spaces!
By following these steps, you will be able to estimate the amount of RadiantShield insulation required for your next project. If you want to double-check your calculations or require some expert advice, speak to one of our experts on 1300 127 227.
]]>Are you tired of high-energy bills and uncomfortable temperatures in your home? Look no further than RadiantShield Premium 4, the ultimate solution for maximising energy efficiency. With its innovative design and advanced technology, RadiantShield Premium 4 is the perfect choice for homeowners who want to save money and create a more comfortable living environment.
RadiantShield Premium 4 is a high-performance insulation product that is specifically designed to reflect radiant heat. It consists of multiple layers of reflective foil laminated to a thick layer of foam insulation. This unique combination creates a barrier that prevents heat transfer, keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
1. Energy Savings: By reflecting up to 97% of radiant heat, RadiantShield Premium 4 reduces the need for excessive air conditioning or heating. This translates to significant energy savings and lower utility bills.
2. Enhanced Comfort: With its superior insulation properties, RadiantShield Premium 4 helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home. Say goodbye to hot spots and cold drafts, and enjoy a more comfortable living space all year round.
3. Eco-Friendly: RadiantShield Premium 4 is made from environmentally friendly materials and is 100% recyclable. By choosing this product, you are saving energy and reducing your carbon footprint.
Installing RadiantShield Premium 4 is a breeze. Simply roll out the product and staple it to the underside of your roof rafters or directly onto the attic floor. It can also be used in walls, floors, and crawl spaces for maximum energy efficiency.
Once installed, RadiantShield Premium 4 requires no maintenance and will continue to provide energy savings for years to come. It is compatible with all types of roofing materials and can be used in both new construction and retrofit projects.
Don't let high-energy bills and uncomfortable temperatures hold you back. Upgrade to RadiantShield Premium 4 and experience the benefits of maximum energy efficiency. Start saving money and enjoying a more comfortable home today!
]]>The building was a funky shell with lots of potential, but lots of work was required to get the space into a state that was comfortable and viable to heat & cool without having to pay excessive amounts in utility bills.
In particular, the existing sawtooth ceiling was totally uninsulated and the quotes that our builder had received to insulated and line with plasterboard were astronomical. There was difficulty in the lack of access due to the roof trusses & the height of the ceiling.
After approaching Solavis, we suggested replacing the plasterboard lining with our RadiantShield product. The benefits would be huge:
Overall, the cost of insulating the roof with Radiantshield was less than half of the cost of the second cheapest option they quoted up for. And with a turnaround of less than a week was also significantly less than any other option.
Here are some 'in progress' photos:
And the finished product. The client has now been in the renovated building for nearly a full season (including a Melbourne Winter!) with positive results and happy staff.
]]>Conduction is the direct flow of heat through a material resulting from physical contact. The transfer of heat by conduction is caused by molecular motion in which molecules transfer their energy to adjoining molecules and increase their temperature.
A typical example of conduction would be the heat transferred from hot coffee, through the cup, to the hand holding the cup. Another example, as shown above, the contents of the kettle boils from heat transferred from the burner to the kettle. Also, a poker becomes hot from contact with hot coals.
Heat transfer by conduction is governed by a fundamental equation known as Fourier’s Law. (Rate of Heat Flow) = – k x (Area) x (Temperature Gradient)
The factor k is called thermal conductivity or in the case of many insulation materials “apparent thermal conductivity”. This property is characteristic of the material and it varies with temperature, density (degree of compaction), and composition. Some typical thermal conductivity and thermal resistivity data are given in the following table for the purpose of comparison.
Material | K value |
Standard Fibreglass batt | 0.313 |
High performance Fibreglass batt | 0.263 |
Expanded Polystyrene | 0.263 |
Air | 0.181 |
Carbon Dioxide | 0.115 |
Helium | 1.04 |
Aluminium | 1890 |
Plywood | 0.83 |
Convection in buildings is the transfer of heat caused by the movement of heated air. In a building space, warm air rises and cold air settles to create a convection loop and is termed free convection. Convection can also be caused mechanically, (termed forced convection), by a fan or by wind.
Typical examples of heat transfer through convection:
Radiation is the transfer of heat (infra-red radiant energy) from a hot surface to a cold surface through air or vacuum. All surfaces including a radiator, stove, a ceiling or roof and ordinary insulation, radiate to different degrees. The radiant heat is invisible and has no temperature, just energy. When this energy strikes another surface, it is absorbed and increases the temperature of that surface. This concept can be understood with the following example: On a bright sunny day, radiant heat from the sun travels through a car’s window, strikes the steering wheel and is absorbed, causing it to rise in temperature.
Radiation from the sun strikes the outer surfaces of walls and roofs and is absorbed causing the surface to heat up. This heat flows from the outer wall to the inner wall through conduction which is then radiated again, through the air spaces in the building, to other surfaces within the building.
There are two terms commonly encountered while discussing radiant heat transfer:
The emittance of various surfaces is listed in the following table:
Material | Emittance |
Brick | 0.93 |
Concrete | 0.85-0.95 |
Glass | 0.95 |
Fibreglass/Cellulose (Bulk Insulations) | 0.8-0.9 |
Plaster | 0.91 |
Aluminium Foil | 0.03-0.05 |
Reference: Reflective Insulation Manufacturers Association International (RIMA-I); http://www.rimainternational.org/technical/handbook.html
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