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OPERATION & MAINTENANCE
Operation
1. The collectors should feel cool to the touch when the sun is shining on them and water is passing through. This means that the
heat is being transferred to the water.
2. The water returning to your pool will be a few degrees (3-5 degrees F/2-3 degrees C)) warmer than the pool itself. This is the most
efficient way to heat a large body of water like a pool. Keep circulating the water, which adds a few degrees each pass.
3. Circulate water though the solar collectors at least 6 hours per day during the daylight hours on sunny days. If you circulate
your water through them at night, or when it’s overcast or on chilly days, you will cool your pool water rather than heat it. If you
need to run your pump at night, divert the water directly back to the pool and bypass the solar system.
Winterization
YOUR SOLAR SYSTEM MUST BE DRAINED FOR WINTERIZATION! FREEZE DAMAGE IS NOT
COVERED UNDER WARRANTY! YOU MUST DRAIN YOUR SOLAR COLLECTORS JUST LIKE
YOU DRAIN THE REST OF YOUR POOL EQUIPMENT!
Remove the white end cap at the top of the solar system. Remove the white end cap at the bottom and be sure ALL the water is
drained out of the system. Replace end caps and blow pressurized air through the system. After blowing them out, remove and
store the bottom end cap for use again in the spring when you start up again. You can leave the collectors in place (as long as they
are completely drained) and they will withstand even the harshest winters. SmartPool recommends that you store your collectors
inside in a warm dry place.
Collector Repair
IF A COLLECTOR DEVELOPS A LEAK
Your solar collectors are warranted against defects in materials and workmanship
(see warranty for details and limitations). If a leak develops for any other reason,
you may use the repair method shown. Collectors are not warranted against
freeze damage.
SOLAR COLLECTOR REPAIR
This method allows for an easy and permanent, on-site repair of a collector by
isolating the leading riser tube. Referring to the figure at the right, locate the
tube to be isolated. (End tube has been shown for clarity). Using a sharp
utility knife, very carefully cut away approximately 1" (25 mm) of the tube at
both headers. Drive a #10 sheet metal screw, preferably stainless, into the
hole in the header. The screw must be between 1/2" (12.7 mm) and
3/4" (19 mm) long.
DO NOT OVERTIGHTEN!
If the screw strips out, or if the repair leaks,
use a #12 screw. This repair method will not void the collector warranty.
With proper care and winterization, you will enjoy your solar collectors for many years.
