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Solar Heater Make a solar heater. Materials needed Lowe's part# price 18" square particle board n/a- salvage 0.00 1x6x6 #2 pine lumber 2.97 1x4x6 #2 pine lumber 201711 2.17 insulation n/a- salvage 0.00 14 soda cans n/a- salvage 0.00 rivets, steel 1/8"x1/4" 45307 4.97 rivet "washers", alum. 1/8" 45303 1.38 rivet gun n/a -Walmart 7.67 metal sheet n/a- salvage 0.00 black spray paint n/a -Walmart .97 4 screws n/a- salvage 0.00 4 pegs n/a- salvage 0.00 glass n/a - local glass shop 4.80 Total project price w/o tax ~24.93 Instructions: 1. Cut 1x6x6 #2 pine lumber into 4 pieces 17 3/8 inches long. 2. Screw together and attach to particle board to make a "box". 3. Cut cans in half - A Dremel tool fitted with a cut-off wheel and strapped to a folding saw horse makes cutting the cans much easier and more precise. 4. Rivet to metal sheet. 5. Paint cans and sheet. 4. Cut 1x4x6 #2 pine lumber into 4 pieces 17 3/8 inches long. 5. Screw together to make a "frame". 6. Fill "box" with insulation. 7. Drill 2 one-inch side holes on "frame". 8. Recess "frame" slightly to allow for metal plate. 9. Screw metal plate onto "frame" using one screw in each corner. 10. Put pegs in, one on each side, to stablize "box" and "frame". 11. Make a "sandwich" of all the parts. 12. Attach glass to the "frame". You need to use tempered glass or it will crack to due temperature stresses. Also it is important to insulate whatever ductwork you use to connect the heater to your living space and to the additional heaters you use (using several of these units is needed to heat anything larger than say a large doghouse or really small bathroom.) The additon of a small battery operated fan (preferably temperature controlled) to the output side will improve preformance. Need help ask a question or send comments to webmaster@solar.iwarp.com Every effort is taken in order to maintain accuracy in the information contained within this web site. Although all of the information is believed to be accurate you are encouraged to consult other sources for additional information or clarification. Under no circumstances shall the authors of this site be held liable for the use of the information or of its consequences. Electrical code varies from county to county, and within the US, it varies, to some extent from state to state. We take no responsibility for the content of outside links. Outside links may NOT reflect our philosophy or beliefs.