SUNSTAR RESIDENTIAL INSTALLATION MANUAL
36
PRESSURE TESTING
Upon completion of the installation of a solar pool heating system the system should be
pressure tested to verify that all connections are sound and watertight. The system should be
tested to 40-50 PSI to ensure proper installation.
1.
Wrap the threads of the Pressure Test “T” assembly, ½” ball valve, and pressure gauge with
Teflon tape. Temporarily replace the vacuum relief valve (or ¾” plug) with the Pressure Test “T”
assembly. Thread the ½” ball valve and pressure gauge into the Pressure Test “T” assembly.
2.
Attach a garden hose to the ½” ball valve. Make sure the ½” ball valve is in the “OFF” position.
3.
Turn the solar function “ON” to allow the pool pump to completely fill the solar loop.
If the pool pump is not operational, shut the isolation valve on the feed line and
use the garden hose to fill the system.
4.
Once the solar loop is completely full of water, turn off the pool pump and/or turn
the three-way diverter valve to bypass the solar loop. Quickly turn off the isolation
valves on both the feed and return lines.
5.
Turn on the water to the garden hose and open the ½” ball valve on the
Pressure Test “T” assembly until the pressure gauge reads 40-50 PSI
and then turn off the ½” ball valve. Turn off water at the hose bib.
6.
With the solar loop under pressure, check the whole loop for any leaks.
A drop in pressure on the pressure gauge indicates a leak in the system.
7.
If there are leaks, open the ball valve on the return line to relieve the pressure.
Repair any leaks. Repeat the pressure testing procedures as needed until no
leaks are present and the solar loops holds the test pressure.
8.
Return the system to normal operation when pressure testing is complete.
Be sure to open both isolation valves and replace the pressure test “T”
assembly with the vacuum relief valve or plug.
