20
Installation Manual
A properly maintained Solar Water Heating system can provide years of dependable trouble free
service. It is suggested that routine preventive maintenance program be established and followed
by the end user with his contractor. Listed below is the maintenance check list that outlines the pri-
mary components of the solar system that need to be inspected annually.
1. HTF Glycol – It is very important that the quality of the HTF Glycol is maintained to avoid
damage to the collector loop and related components which come in contact with the fluid.
See the Dow Frost Data Sheet located in the back of the manual for further details.
2. Water Quality can effect the operation of the solar heat exchanger over time. In very hard water
areas, it is recommended you drain (#14) a few gallons from the water to keep the bottom of
the water heater free of sediment.
3. Clean and inspect the solar collector (#1) Dirt or film may have settled on the surface and may
effect the performance. Check Collector supplier for clean procedures.
4. Check Insulation for deterioration.
5. Check Solar Tank Sensors and the Boiler back up Aquastat Sensors (#15 & 23) to assure that
they are secure and have not moved or loosen.
6. Inspect the T&P (#19) on the water heater. Lift the release handle lever and make discharge is
directed to an open drain.
7. The area near the water heater must be kept free of flammable liquids such as gasoline, paint
thinners, adhesive or other combustible materials.
8. The electric element may need cleaning – A hissing sound while operating will happen when
the element starts to build up deposits that will require cleaning. This should be done only by
a qualified individual or licensed plumber.
9. Anode Rod Inspection – The anode rod should be removed from the water heater tank
annually for inspection. If the anode core wire is exposed more than few inches it is
recommended that the anode rod be replaced. It is important to turn off the power to the
heater and run water until it is cold, then drain tank and replace the anode rod.
SHUT DOWN PROCEDURES
The Solar System is designed to be easily isolated for emergency repairs or routine maintenance.
To isolate the water heater, simply shut down the supply water shut off valve (Number #24) which
isolates the water heater from the pressurized cold water supply.
The collector loop can be isolated from the solar storage tank by closing (#6 and #11 ). If the pres-
sure in this loop drops or you find a glycol leak, close these valves and turn the circulating pump off
by shutting down the power to the control, then contact your installation contractor.
VACATION SHUT DOWN
Solar water heaters can build up very high temperatures when there is no daily draw on the system.
The best way to dissipate heat in the system is set the control to run your circulator pump 24 hours
n
CAUTION
If the heating element needs replacement, it is VERY important to use the same voltage,
wattage and construction. This element must be stainless steel and the hex plug be
made of brass. This replacement part is available from the manufacturer and should
not be purchased from outside sources.
PART 4: MAINTENANCE
