®
6
What Do the Components In my System Do?
1. The Connected Tube
CT
Collector
When used in pool heating applications, Connected Tube
CT
collectors provide enhanced perfor-
mance by:
•
Returning the heated water to the pool, extending your swim season.
•
Reducing and often eliminating the cost of operating conventional pool heating equipment.
2. Solar Drain Valves
Spigot style valves ensure draining. Some systems may instead connect a hose to the system’s low-
est point, which can then be run through the downspout of your gutter for easy ground access.
3. The Isolation Valves
A manually operated valve is installed in the supply line and allows you to isolate the Connected
Tube
CT
System from the filtration system. It is primarily used when backwashing the filter or at
any time it is desirable to isolate the system. A check valve is installed in the return line allowing
isolation and prevents over-pressurizing your system.
4. Diverter Valve
An automatically controlled valve that diverts the pool or spa water to the thermal system.
5. Auxiliary Heating Equipment
It is only needed to give your spa a supplemental heat boost, or when weather or special occasions
demand higher pool temperatures.
6 . Pump and Filter
For optimal performance a variable speed pump is preferred. Please contact your FAFCO
®
Inc. dis-
tributer for more information. Keeping your skimmer and pump baskets clean enhances perfor-
mance by ensuring the maximum flow of pool water. When cleaning the filter, the solar system
should be isolated, preventing debris from entering the system.
7. Check Valve
When the pump shuts off, the Connected Tube
CT
System will drain. A Check Valve prevents the wa-
ter in the collectors from flowing backwards through the Filter and backwashing.
8. Vacuum Relief Valve (VRV)
The VRV must be located at the highest point in the system. It seals the system while operating
and opens under high vacuum so the system drains when shut off.
9. End Caps
The End Caps seal the headers at the corners of the collector rows which aren’t plumbed with a
supply or return line.
10. Automation Equipment
The Automation System uses a controller to run the pool pump, control a diverter valve, and direct
pool water to the Connected Tube
CT
collectors through use of a control system which analyzes
pool and roof temperatures via feedback sensors. If not properly configured, the Automation
Equipment can cause the pool to lose heat rather than store it.
