SolaStat™-1-3 Installation Guide
Version 1.1 – April 2013 Page 13
PLUMBING TIP S
Overview
This section will help you to ensure the plumbing associated with the
SolaStat™ will enable the system to be operated safety and to maximum
efficiency.
All plumbing installations should be carried out by registered and qualified
plumber; 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 [212°F](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
valve
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 needs to be fitted.
The failure of this non-return valve 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.
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