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Solar System Installation Guide
Component Description
Evacuated Tubes
This is the heart of the solar system. The evacuated tubes are what change the light energy from the sun and change it
into hot water. Inside the glass is a vacuum that prevents heat from being lost from the system. This prevents the loss
of most energy from the system meaning the maximum amount is available to heat water. The tubes may look delicate,
but they are actually quite strong. They are certified to withstand hail impacts of up to 1” in diameter (DIN EN12975-5)
and a snow load of over 3,000 lbs!
Please be careful when handling the tubes when it is sunny outside. The metal piece on the top (the condenser) can
become very hot and cause burns. Tube installation and removal should be conducted by a trained professional only.
Manifold
The manifold is what connects the tubes to the rest of the system. Inside the manifold is a tube where the glycol runs
past the condenser on the tubes and transfers the energy to the glycol mixture that runs through the solar loop. Each of
the tubes slides into a pocket in the manifold that the glycol solution flows around. This means there is no contact
between the glycol and the actual tubes themselves. Individual tubes can be replaced without having to drain the entire
system.
Flexible Piping and Fittings
Most systems will use flexible stainless steel piping for transporting the glycol mixture between the manifold and tank.
This piping and its insulation are designed for use in solar systems. Fittings are included to attach the piping to the
various parts of the system.
Pump Station
The pump station provides flow between the collector and tank in the system. In addition to the pump it has several
safety features that are important to the overall operation of the solar system. Do not attempt, or remove any of the
connections to the pump station. Important information on the system is included on a label on the pump station.
Solar Tank
The solar hot water tank is similar to most other hot water heaters, with the exception that it provides more insulation
and is designed for the temperatures that solar can generate. The Kingspan Tribune tank is also made from duplex
stainless steel to give the maximum life and corrosion resistance to the tank that is on the market today. The tank has a
coil in the bottom that the Glycol mixture flows through and transfers the heat to the domestic hot water. There is no
mixing allowed between the fluids.
Tyfocor Glycol Solution
Your solar system comes with Tyfocor, a special antifreeze mixture for use in solar systems. Tyfocor is non toxic. It is
important that the fluid be maintained in line with the maintenance schedule provided in this document. See page 35
for more information.
Thermostatic Mixing Valve
The maximum temperature hot water should be delivered to your faucets is 120°F. Your solar system can store water at
temperatures up to 140°F and higher. In order to prevent scalding, a thermostatic mixing valve is connected the hot
water outlet from the tank, the hot water line to the house and the cold water supply. It mixes the hot water from the
tank and the cold water to make sure that the water that is delivered to your faucets is the same temperature regardless
of the tanks temperature.
