37
INSTALLATION – SOLAR COLLECTOR(S)
SOLAR COLLECTOR LOCATION
Consideration must be given to the position of the solar collector(s) in relation to the solar storage tank. There
are limitations on the maximum length of the solar hot and solar cold pipes between the solar storage tank and
the solar collector(s). Refer to
on page 39 and to
“Maximum height to collectors”
on page 40.
The solar collector(s) must be installed in a shade free position. The surrounds should be checked for higher
buildings or trees which may cause shade at other times of the year and for small trees which may grow and
shade the solar collector(s) in the future.
The installation must comply with the requirements of either AS/NZS 3500.4 or AS/NZS 3500.5:2012 Section 3
(for a Class 1a or Class 10 building) as applicable under the Plumbing Code of Australia, and all local codes
and regulatory authority requirements. Refer to the installation instructions supplied with the collector kit for
details on the installation of the solar collector(s).
ROOF STRENGTH
The installer must ensure the structural integrity of the building is not compromised by the solar water heater
installation and the roof structure is suitable to carry the full weight of the solar collector(s) and frame (if one is
installed). If in any doubt of the construction or the condition of the roof, the roof should be suitably
strengthened. Consult a structural engineer. Each solar collector and its fittings weigh approximately
36 kg (LCS
– 2.0 m
2
collector) or 41 kg (NPT200
– 2.0 m
2
collector) or 55 kg (CSA2612
– 2.6 m
2
collector)
when full of water.
ROOF AREA FOR INSTALLATION
Roof area required for 2.0m
2
solar collectors:
2 solar collectors
–
2.3 m wide x 2.0 m deep
Weight (full) 72 to 82 kg approx.
1 solar collector
–
1.2 m wide x 2.0 m deep
Weight (full) 36 to 41 kg approx.
Roof area required for 2.6m
2
solar collectors:
1 solar collector
–
1.4 m wide x 2.3 m deep.
Weight (full) 55 kg approx.
In addition to this area, a minimum one (1) metre clearance is recommended on all four sides of the solar
collectors for safe service access.
Maximum Number of Collectors
The maximum number of solar collectors as part of an open circuit system is:
Selective Surface LCS 2.0m
2
Collectors
161 tank
– 2 x collectors (Victoria only if installed greater than 50° off solar north)
– 1 x collector (other areas)
Non-Selective Surface NPT200 2.0m
2
Collectors
161 tank
– 2 x collectors
Selective Surface CSA2612 2.6m
2
Collectors
161 tank
– 1 x collector
ORIENTATION OF SOLAR COLLECTORS
The optimum orientation of solar collectors, to maximise system performance, is facing true north (in the
southern hemisphere) or true south (in the northern hemisphere).
However, the optimum orientation of solar collectors is not always practical or achievable. If it is not possible
to achieve the optimum orientation, then it is recommended to install the solar collectors as close to the
optimum orientation as possible.
