The instructables web site provides how to guides on many topics. The origins of the site trace back to the MIT Media Lab. Solar Thermal Water Heater For Less Than $5
This project will create a DIY solar hot water heater for less than five dollars (if you have access to a garbage dump). It will allow you to see the principles of solar water heating in action, and is highly customizable.
Its a great way to learn about using the renewable energy of the sun to produce useful effects, in this case hot water. You can use these instructions to build a device that will actually heat enough water to use in the home, but it would require modifications.
Materials needed:
* Water
* 2 buckets
* Drill (with both drill bits and screw bits)
* Some scissors
* A saw (a simple hand saw will do)
* Some wood
* A pane of glass.
* The back of a small refrigerator.
* 12 feet of air pump hose used in fish tanks
* Backing material (we used an old door mat)
* A box of wood screws
* Aluminum Foil
* Role of duct tape
* Angle Cutter (or hack saw)Time:
This project took about 3 hours of constructions time. It took a couple weeks to find all the parts.
Related: Dissecting an IP Phone ‘Magic Cable’ – Engineers Without Borders – Cost Efficient Solar Thermal Dish by MIT Students – Engineering at Home (AC) – Make blog
It is amazing to me just how many people are unconscious of the energy challenges that we face. Its truly troubling that so many of us either think that there is an boundless supply of good clean energy, or ignore the issue completely. For others, solar options, as well as many new technologies present a bright light at the end of a really dark tunnel. I highly regard anyone, who in either a large or small way, takes their valuable time to cultivate everyone about their independent opportunities and obligations when it comes to our future, and our kids future. When we reflect back twenty years from now, it will virtually be astounding that we were even joined in this debate. Our energy future is a forgone conclusion, and we all have a role to meet in advancing us toward it.