In this study, a mathematical model is developed for simulating the thermal behavior of single and two-glass cover solar air collector systems with forced convection flow. In order to model collectors, energy balance equations are analytically derived and solved. Comparison of present work results with the results of other researchers shows a good agreement. Using energy and exergy analysis, influence of effective parameters such as depth, length, fin shape, and Re number is presented. The results indicate that the systems with fin and thin metal sheet (TMS) are more efficient than other studied systems from the energy and exergy efficiency standpoints. It is found that the value of exergy efficiency for the systems with TMS and double glass covers at very high Re numbers (Re > 22,000) is negative. In terms of energy and exergy performance, the obtained results would be useful to select the most efficient system and determine design parameters such as Re number, channel depth, and collector length. (C) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.