Numerical Modeling and Simulation of Solar Water Heating Systems for Enhanced Thermal Performance: A Review
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Solar Water Heating Systems (SWHS) are increasingly recognized as vital technologies for reducing dependence on conventional energy sources and supporting sustainable thermal energy solutions. This study reviews recent advancements in the numerical modeling and simulation of SWHS, with a particular focus on improving heat transfer efficiency and overall system performance. The primary aim is to evaluate how Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and other simulation approaches accurately predict thermal behavior, fluid flow characteristics, and energy storage dynamics. The study identifies key objectives, including the analysis of critical design parameters, collector geometry, material properties, working fluid selection, and operating conditions, and their impact on thermal efficiency. This review integrates heat transfer, fluid dynamics, and energy storage within a unified numerical modeling framework. The current study also emphasizes advanced simulation techniques, including multi-physics analysis and optimization to enhance prediction accuracy and reduce computational cost. The outcomes indicate that validated numerical models provide reliable performance predictions under varying operating conditions and facilitate the development of high-efficiency, cost-effective SWHS for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The findings also outline future research directions, including transient analysis, experimental validation, and advanced optimization frameworks, thereby contributing to the next generation of solar thermal technologies.
Source: Solar
DOI: 10.3390/solar6030023
Institutions: Durban University of Technology, Collin College
Language: English
Field: Energy
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,207
OpenAlex ID: W7160880538