Recirculation Solar Thermal System Pros and Cons

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These systems have the following advantages:

  • They are simple, cheap and easy to install compared to most active systems.
  • They offer more collector placement options than an ICS setup.
  • They provide cold weather protection, provided freezes are mild, infrequent and short.

It's also important to consider the disadvantages:

  • They require a water softener, installed before the collector array.
  • They must use a microprocessor-based controller.
  • They cannot use a PV-powered pump.
  • Freeze protection is very limited.
  • Recirculation reduces system efficiency and increases backup heater operating costs.