Sizing Bitcoin Mining ASICs for Home Heating: A Case Study
Tyler Stevens, a Colorado-based engineer and bitcoiner, recently explored the feasibility of using Bitcoin mining ASICs (Application-Specific Integrated Circuits) to heat a mountain home's hydronic flooring system. This innovative approach aims to offset utility costs with mining rewards while providing efficient heating.
Here's a breakdown of the process and findings
Background:
The project stemmed from Stevens' presentation on waste heat reuse from bitcoin mining machines at Denver BitDevs.
A friend inquired about implementing ASIC heating in her mountain home's hydronic flooring.
Process:
Energy Audit: Stevens conducted an assessment of the home and existing heating system.
Data Collection: Gathered information on energy source, cost, and consumption throughout the heating season.
System Analysis: The existing system used a resistive, electrically heated hot water tank, ideal for upgrading to a bitcoin mining heating system.
Sizing Methodology:
Used Heating Degree Day (HDD) method to estimate energy needs.
Base temperature set at 65°F (18°C).
Calculated energy consumption per HDD using utility bills and historical temperature data.
Key Findings:
January (coldest month) consumption: ~2000 kWh
Calculated power requirement: 2.69 kW
Existing heater rating: 3.4 kW (oversized for actual needs)
Recommended Bitcoin miner size: At least 3.0 kW
Seasonal Considerations:
Warmer months require less power (e.g., May requires only 740W continuous power).
System can be operated at full load year-round for simplicity, with potential temperature fluctuations during warmer periods.
Stevens successfully sized a Bitcoin mining ASIC system for hydronic floor heating, demonstrating that it could meet the home's heating needs while potentially generating mining revenue.
Here’s how you can help him directly contributing to his Lightning Wallet for his excellent work: tandolphin1@primal.net
For more details or inquiries about the project, Stevens encourages readers to reach out directly via the links below.
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