C
HAPTER
2:
S
YSTEM
P
IPING
System Piping
• The most common piping configurations use a pressure filter. The pump draws the water from the skimmer and/
or a main drain, forcing it through the filter and sending it back to the pool through the return lines. (For other
types please contact factory)
If a fuel-fired heater or heat pump is installed, it is located between the collector return line and the return line to
the pool. The pipes to and from the solar collectors are connected to the return line to the pool before the water
enters the fuel-fired heater.
•
Whenever there is more than 50 gpm (189L) required flow rate to the collectors or more than 100’ (30m) of
piping used in a system, install 2” (63mm) piping to and from the collectors. (See
Table 3A
for Pipe Size based on
Flow Rate.) Piping to and from the collectors should be the same type of plastic piping and fittings approved for
use with swimming pool filters and pumps. It is recommended to always use Schedule 40 PVC pipe and fittings.
•
Although PVC pipe is generally white, black is also available but may be difficult to find locally. If for aesthetics
black pipe is desired it can always be painted black. Before painting, the PVC pipe must be wiped with cleaner to
remove the glossy surface coating. This will ensure that the paint will not flake off prematurely.
•
Use a PVC cutter or a PVC wide-blade saw (not a hacksaw) for cutting pipe. It is important to use both a quality
cleaner/primer and solvent in gluing a PVC joint. Finally, use a cloth while either gluing or painting to keep the
job a clean one.
•
Piping should also be supported at intervals based on pipe size. (See
Table 3B
) Aquatherm Industries
Pipe
Brackets
made from high-strength glass-reinforced polypropylene are available in 1 1/2” (Part #30272-1 black;
#30284-1 white) and 2” (Part #30272-2 black; #30284-2 white).
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