Thermal and Energy Performance Assessment of Evacuated Tube Collectors: Case Study at Rancho Luna Hotel

This study aimed to evaluate the thermal performance and operational behavior of an evacuated-tube solar collector field installed in a coastal hotel under real industrial conditions. The work analyzed temperature, irradiance, and mass-flow data to determine instantaneous efficiency and identify performance deterioration associated with fouling. A multivariable regression model was developed to predict collector efficiency as a function of operating parameters. The results showed an average efficiency of 40–55%, with a noticeable decrease attributed to soiling effects. The methodology and findings contribute to improving monitoring-based maintenance strategies and optimizing the energy performance of large-scale domestic hot-water systems.