SolaSmart™ Plus Installation Guide
Version 1.1 – Mar 2012 Page 14
PLUMBING TIPS
Overview
This section will help you to ensure the plumbing associated with the
SolaSmart™ will enable the system to be operated safety and to maximum
efficiency.
All plumbing installations should be carried out by registered and qualified
plumbers and all regulatory and local standards must be applied. Best
plumbing standards must be used for all plumbing work associated with
installation and maintenance.
All parts including the pump must be rated for the elevated temperatures
found in solar hot water systems.
The information provided here provides feedback from experienced solar hot
water professionals, but does not represent a complete guide to plumbing a
system.
Tempering
Valve
Water from solar hot water collectors frequently reaches very high
temperatures. It may exceed 100°C (under pressure).
A tempering (or mixing) valve must be installed if required by local
regulations.
It is used to ensure the supply from the tank does not burn end users. The
tempering valve must be appropriately rated to handle extreme
temperatures.
Installation must be to best plumbing practice and the manufacturer’s
specifications.
Non Return
System
Hot water rises and cold water falls. If the solar collector is colder than the
tank (e.g. at night) the hot water from the tank can thermo-siphon up to the
collector. The collector then radiates the heat to the cool night air and the
cooler water descends back to the tank.
To stop this loss of hot water at night or during cloudy skies, a ‘one way’ or
non-return valve or other non return solution needs to be fitted.
The failure of a non-return valve or heat loop is a common problem with solar
hot water systems. Some key points are:
It is critical to make sure that the orientation of the valve is as per the
manufacturer’s directions.
Make sure there are no debris caught in the valve as that could cause the
valve not to close.
The heat loop/trap is long enough.
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