Solar Heater Guidelines
One Allow sunlight in but trap heat in (greenhouse effect) Glass or plexiglass, double paned with air space between works best Plastic wrap is too thin
Two Increase the surface area of the water so it will heat quickly
Three Water should be in or around a conductor (for rapid heat transfer) Metal is good
Four The areas containing the water should be black to absorb heat
Five Insulate outer areas of project to prevent heat transfer Especially the Ground Over insulation keeps light from entering and will DROP the temperature
Six Use of reflectors or mirrors to concentrate light and heat onto water Difficult to get the right angle due to moving sun Least important
Seven Angle object 45 degrees to the SOUTHWEST MOST IMPORTANT!!!!!!!!!!