19
pump is running and the system is fully purged, set the
control to the desired settings. It is recommended that
the storage tank high limit set point is not set any lower
than 160
o
F. A lower set point could lower the
performance of the solar water heater and cause
overheating of the collector system. You must install
an anti-scald valve on the hot water outlet as
temperature within the storage tank can cause injury –
please see warning label for outlet temperature
restriction.
PART 4: MAINTENANCE
A properly maintained solar water heating system can provide years of dependable, trouble free service.
It is suggested that a routine preventive maintenance program be established and followed by the end
user with the contractor. Below is the maintenance check list that outlines the primary components of the
solar system that need to be inspected annually.
1. Glycol – It is very important that the quality of the glycol heat transfer fluid is maintained to avoid
damage to the collector loop and related components which come in contact with the fluid. See
the DowFrost data sheet located in the back of the manual for further details.
2. Over time, water quality can affect the operation of the solar heat exchanger. In very hard water
areas, it is recommended you drain (#14) a few gallons from the tank to keep the bottom of the
water heater free of sediment.
3. Clean and inspect the solar collector (#1). Dirt or film which may have settled on the surface may
affect performance. Check collector supplier information for cleaning procedures.
4. Check insulation for deterioration.
5. Check solar tank sensors to assure they are secure and have not moved or loosened.
6. Inspect the T&P valve (#19) on the water heater. Lift the release handle lever and make sure
discharge is directed to an open drain.
7. The area near the water heater must be kept free of flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint
thinners, adhesive, or other combustible materials.
A. SHUTDOWN PROCEDURES
The solar system is designed to be easily isolated for emergency repairs or routine maintenance. To
isolate the water heater, simply shut down supply water shut off valve (#21) which isolates the water
heater from the pressurized cold water supply.
The collector loop can be isolated from the solar storage tank by closing (#6 and #11). If the pressure in
this loop drops, or you find a glycol leak, shut these valves and contact your installation contractor. Turn
the circulating pump off on your solar control.
B. VACATION SHUTDOWN
Solar water heaters can build up very high temperatures when there is no daily draw on the system. The
best way to dissipate heat in the system is set the control to run the circulator pump 24 hours a day to
cool off the storage tank at night. The collector will radiate heat back to the atmosphere at night,
preventing the system from stagnating at very high temperatures.
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