Solar energy absorption and distribution system with full solar, solar assist, and fireplace heat exchanger modes

摘要

A heating and cooling system, which in the "heating" mode provides fresh, filtered, solar heated air which may be augmented by a fireplace(s) heat exchanger to selectively complement or supplant a heating system otherwise fueled by mass-purchased fossil fuels (oil, gas, coal, etc.), without resorting to intermediate steps, i.e., heat pump assist, liquid conversions, low level air mixing, etc. A collector duct extends along the peak region of an attic space to direct air, heated by solar energy impinging on the roof, to the intake of a heating and/or distribution system within the building. Vents admit outside air to the attic space, adjacent the eaves, so the air is heated by the hot roof and rises to the inlet slot of the duct in the peak region. The duct transfer can be closed and a further inlet opened to admit normal return air from the occupied areas to the heating and distribution system. In the absence of adequate solar heated air, a heat exchanger installed in a conventional fireplace may be selectively energized to perform a similar function. In the "cooling" mode, the system provides outside, cool air to the distribution system within the building, either in lieu of air normally cooled by the air-conditioning compressor, or as supply air thereto for normal cooling function.