Solar Water Heater Efficiency Demo Kit with Arduino Uno
Solar Water Heater Efficiency Demo Kit — Measure Real-Time kW Thermal with Arduino Uno
Every part needed, pre-tested for compatibility, with an AI build companion trained on this exact project. Shipped from Bengaluru in 3-5 days.
Turn sunlight into data. This kit equips students and makers to build a live solar collector efficiency meter — the same tool engineers use to evaluate thermal performance. Two DS18B20 probes capture inlet and outlet temperatures, the Arduino calculates heat gain in kilowatts and percentage efficiency, and a 16×2 LCD gives instant readings. Perfect for science fair demos or ATL lab renewable energy exhibits.
What You'll Build
You’ll assemble a compact, battery-powered instrument that connects to any small solar water heater or simulated collector. The dual-probe design measures the water temperature before and after heating, computes thermal power (kW) and collector efficiency in real time, and flashes the results on a bright LCD. With the included DS3231 RTC, you’ll also timestamp each reading — laying the groundwork for a full data logger.
What You'll Learn
- Interfacing one-wire DS18B20 digital temperature sensors
- Calculating thermal power (kW) and collector efficiency from temperature differential
- Driving a 16×2 LCD via I2C backpack for clear data display
- Using a DS3231 real-time clock to timestamp experiments and enable logging
Kit Contents
| Component | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Arduino Uno R3 | 1 |
| DS18B20 Probe | 2 |
| 16x2 LCD | 1 |
| I2C Backpack | 1 |
| DS3231 RTC | 1 |
| 4.7kΩ Resistors | 5 |
| 400-pt Breadboard | 1 |
| M-M Wires | 20 |
| 9V Battery Snap | 1 |
Why Buy This Kit Instead of Sourcing Parts Separately
| Factor | Sourcing Separately | Compoden Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Compatibility checks | You verify every part | Pre-tested as a system |
| Build support | Forums and scattered tutorials | AI companion trained on this exact project |
| Time to first working build | Days of debugging | Hours, with step-by-step guidance |
| Shipping coordination | Multiple sellers, multiple delays | One shipment from Bengaluru in 3-5 days |
Who This Kit Is For
School students (Class 5–12) preparing CBSE science exhibits or ATL Tinkering Lab renewable energy projects. B.Tech ECE/EEE first‑year students prototyping thermal efficiency meters for Smart India Hackathon or campus competitions. Educators demonstrating solar energy conversion in physics and environmental science labs.
Built and Backed by Compoden
Every Compoden kit ships with an AI build companion trained on this exact project — accessible via a QR code on the box, with WhatsApp and email backup. We've spent 10 years building projects for makers, schools, and institutions across India. If a part fails because of a manufacturing defect, replace it free within 7 days.
What if I get stuck during the build?
Scan the QR code to launch the AI companion, which walks you through wiring, code upload, and calibration step by step. If you need extra help, our WhatsApp support replies in minutes.
Can I log temperature data over time?
Yes. The DS3231 RTC timestamps each reading. With the AI companion’s guidance, you can log data to a PC via USB serial, or add an SD card module (not included) for standalone long‑term logging.
Is this kit suitable for a 10-year-old?
Absolutely. All connections use a breadboard — no soldering required. The AI companion breaks down each step with clear language and visuals, making it manageable for young makers with adult supervision.
Can I use this kit on a real rooftop solar water heater?
It’s designed to teach the measurement principle. You can attach the probes to inlet and outlet pipes of a small residential collector to see live efficiency. The AI companion offers tips on sensor placement and insulation for real‑world testing.
DS18B20 before and after solar collector measure temperature gain. LCD shows efficiency and kW thermal.
What's in this kit
- Arduino Uno R3
- DS18B20 Probe x2
- 16x2 LCD
- I2C Backpack
- DS3231 RTC
- 4.7kΩ Resistors x5
- 400-pt Breadboard
- M-M Wires x20
- 9V Battery Snap
Other projects you can build
Shipping Information
- Prepaid Orders: ₹75 for orders up to ₹999, FREE shipping above ₹999
- COD Orders: ₹125 shipping + ₹50 COD fee = ₹175 total
- Delivery Timeline: Dispatch in 1-2 days, delivery in 2-7 days depending on location
Returns & Warranty
- 7-Day Return: Manufacturing defects only (approval required)
- Warranty: 7 days from delivery
- Non-Returnable: Batteries, consumables, cut wires, clearance items