Open all balancing valves completely and let the system run for several minutes. The row(s) which feel(s)
warmer to the touch than the other(s), is currently receiving less flow then it should for optimum
performance. Throttle the valve(s) of the other (cooler) row(s) step-by-step, each time waiting for a few
minutes, and check the temperature. Once all rows feel uniformly cool, the system is balanced and operates
at optimum performance. Should unexpected problems be encountered, the flow rate must be checked out
more thoroughly.
2.Flowmeter
•
The preferred system test method is flow rate. This is also the easiest and quickest method. To check flow
rate, install a flow meter in the inlet line to the collectors (follow installation instructions provided with the
flowmeter).
3. Temperature Rise Test Method
•
An alternate test method is temperature rise. To prepare the system for testing, obtain two accurate
thermometers. One of these thermometers is installed in the outlet line from the collectors. The other is
used to check the temperature of the pool water, to compare it with that of the water leaving the solar
collectors. Before installing the thermometer in the outlet line, immerse both thermometers in the pool
water for several minutes to compare the temperature readings. If they are not identical, make a notation of
the difference and add or subtract (as appropriate) this difference to or from the reading taken while you are
testing. This is necessary in order to provide an accurate indication of the temperature rise of the water
passing through the solar collectors.
• Turn the pump on and move the flow switch to the “Manual ON” position. Observe valve action...it should
divert water through the collectors. After flow through the collectors has continued for a least fifteen
minutes, compare the pool water temperature with the temperature of the water flowing through the outlet
line. On an average sunny day, with the air temperature approximately 70°F (40°C) the water leaving the
collectors should be 1° to 7°F (1° to 4°C) higher than that in the pool. If the water rise is greater than this,
insufficient water is flowing through the collectors. This may be caused by a clogged filter, undersized
piping, to many elbows in the piping or an inadequate pump. It is important that the temperature rise
through the collectors be kept as low as possible in order to deliver the maximum amount of heat to the
pool.
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