W W W . S O L A R P O W E R . N E T . A U
Page 15 of 20
Revision: 9h Issued: 01 August 2008
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WATER FLOWING FROM THE OVERFLOW OUTLET
Normal Operation
It is normal that the overflow pipe will leak water for the first couple of days of the unit’s
operation. This is caused by the expansion of the tank water, and should stop after the heater
has reached maximum operating temperature. The tank may also leak small amounts of water
in summer, when the hot weather will cause the tank to reach higher temperatures.
Continuous dribble
Try gently raising the easing lever on the relief valve for a few seconds this may dislodge any
trapped particles of foreign matter and clear the fault.
Release the lever gently
.
Steady flows for long period (often at night)
This may indicate the mains water pressure sometimes rises above the designed pressure of
the water heater. Ask your installing plumber to fit a pressure limiting valve.
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VENT PIPE LEAKING WATER
If the vent pipe is leaking water, it may be that your overflow outlet pipe is blocked. Ensure that
the overflow outlet pipe is not damaged, and disconnect any plumbing from the overflow outlet to
see if it is blocked.
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HIGH ELECTRICITY BILLS
With the installation of your new solar hot water system, maximum electrical energy savings can be
achieved with careful planning of hot water usage. Should you at any time, feel your electricity
account is too high, we suggest you check the following points:
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Is the relief valve running excessively?
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Are you using more hot water than you think?
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Is there a leaking hot water pipe, dripping hot water tap etc? Even a small leak will waste a
surprising quantity of hot water and energy. Replace faulty tap washers, and have your
plumber rectify any leaking pipe work.
•
Are you using the booster heating unit properly?
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Consider recent changes to your hot water usage pattern and check if there has been any
increase in tariffs since your previous account.
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Does the system have the correct foam insulation installed on the pipe work? Incorrect
insulation can waste solar energy and lead to excess electrical use at times of high water use.
NOTE:
IF YOU HAVE CHECKED ALL THE FOREGOING AND STILL BELIEVE YOU NEED
ASSISTANCE, CALL SOLARPOWER PTY LTD ON 07-3274 0774.
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COLLECTOR GLASS
SolarPower
WARRANTY
DOES NOT cover breakage of solar collector glass. Check your
household insurance policy to ensure that the policy covers collector glass breakage. In the event of the
Collectors glass being broken a new collector will need to be installed.
3.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
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PRESSURE RELIEF AND NON RETURN VALVE
This valve is at the top of the water heater and is essential for its reliable operation. During periods
after hot water has been drawn off, water in the coil is trapped between the tap and the non-return
valve. This water heats up through the transfer of heat from water in the tank and expands. The relief
valve redirects this excess into the tank, assisting with topping up. The inlet side of the valve may be
supplied restricted or unrestricted to provide different flow rates.
