20
SOLAR PLUMBING CONNECTIONS
To connect the solar cold pipe on the storage tank.
Connect the “Solar Flow” pipe to the non-return valve that has to be fitted on nipple on the
outlet side of the pump. This pipe will run to the bottom right of the collector array.
The “Solar Flow” Pipe will carry water from the tank up to the panels for heating. It is very
important that this pipe runs continuously upwards or horizontally from the outlet of the pump
to the inlet of the panels. If the pipe runs downwards, water will sit in the gooseneck formed by
the pipe and cause extra resistance to the pump.
To connect the solar hot pipe to the solar storage tank:
Connect the
“Solar Return” pipe to the tank using a compression elbow. This pipe will run
from the top left of the collector array (diagonally opposite the panel inlet fitting) down to the
tank. A compression fitting or copper olive fitting is recommended.
The
“Solar Return” Pipe must run continuously downwards or horizontally from the panels
to the tank
– the reason for this is given in the section above.
Fitting of a non-return valve in the solar line after the pump. We recommend the installation of
a ½ inch spring check valve (supplied in panel installation kit) in the solar pump line to prevent
the backflow of air from the panels into the pump which can cause cavitation of the pump the
next time it starts. Dual spring check valves are
not
to be installed as the pump does not have
enough force to flow through the valve. Note that the fitment of the incorrect valve in frost
prone areas can cause damage to the panels.
NOTES ON PLUMBING
Flush out all piping after installation
DO NOT use thread tape on compression fittings.
Copper olives or Compression fittings must be used.
DO NOT use plastic pipe work between the tank and collectors.
CONNECTIONS
– PLUMBING
CONNECTION SIZES
Hot water outlet: 20mm Female BSP.
Cold water inlet: 20mm Female BSP.
Solar hot (from collectors) connection: 20mm Female BSP
Solar cold (to collectors) connection: 20mm Female BSP
PTR 15mm Female
Pump Inlet and Outlet Fittings: 15mm male BSP (connections already supplied)
Solar Panel Fittings: 3/4” BSP Barrel Unions (connections already supplied)
