14
19.
OPERATIONAL CHECKLIST
Before the system is turned on, the piping and
electrical systems should be evaluated to see if they
match the supplied drawings. If you are satisfied
that the system is installed correctly, it should be
filled and powered according to the preceding
instructions. When the system is in the operational
mode, care should be taken to check all piping for
leaks and to make sure sufficient insulation has been
used to provide maximum system efficiency. All
modes of operation should be checked by the
installer to assure proper functioning under all
conditions.
TROUBLE SHOOTING GUIDE
Problems with systems usually fall under two
categories: system leaks or lack of sufficient solar
heated water.
LEAKS
If leaks exist the system should be shut down for
repairs. Make sure the electrical circuit to the
controller is off. Close off the cold water inlet or in
case of a leak in the closed loop system, isolate as
much of the system as possible and then drain and
repair the affected area.
There is a possibility that what appears to be leaks
may be condensation on the pipes. Also water
escaping for the T & P valve may be an indication
of proper function as they are designed to vent off
excess temperature and pressure.
INSUFFICIENT HOT WATER
If insufficient hot water is available a system
malfunction may not be indicated. A low amount of
solar radiation or heavy water demand can be the
cause.
If no excessive demands are put on the system and
ample solar radiation is available, the system should
operate properly. The pump should run each sunny
day until a full supply of hot water is stored. If the
pump does not run, there is a problem on the
electrical end of the system. Either the pump,
controller, or sensors are malfunctioning. The
controller can be bypassed by running a power cable
directly to the pump and checking its function
separate from the control system. Make sure that
the problem is not a blown fuse or a tripped breaker.
If the pump runs normally when powered
externally, the control circuit is the problem area.
Eagle Sun controllers use thermistor sensors to
determine modes of operation. A controller tester is
available from AET for checking differential
function. Check sensor wiring. If no faulty wiring
can be discovered, replace sensors.
If the pump is running all the time, even when the
collectors are cool, then the storage sensor or
collector sensor may be open. It is also possible that
the sensor wire itself is at fault. To check this, test
the continuity with an ohm meter. Be sure to
disconnect the sensor when performing this test.
Test the wire with both ends open, then retest often
twisting the 2 sensor wires together at one end. The
system can be set on a timer or switched on
manually until the controller is properly
functioning.
OTHER PROBLEMS
A noisy pump is an indication of worn bearings
obstruction or loss of prime. As a rule of thumb
about 8 to 12 degrees should be expected as a
normal gain across a collector in bright sun at
proper flow rate.
SYSTEM PARTS LIST
Solar Collectors
Set of Mounting Hardware for each collector
Hot Water Storage Tank
High-head Pump
Pump Flanges
Low-head Pump (on DX Systems only)
Differential Temperature Controller
Controller Sensors
Drainback Reservoir
Installation Manual
