lp-364 Rev. 000 Rel. 007 Date 2.12.18
6
I. Snow Load
In areas prone to heavy snowfall, the solar collectors should ideally be
installed at an angle of 50
o
or greater to help promote snow sliding off
the collectors. In addition, it is advisable to raise the lower collector
frame off the roof surface 6 – 8 inches or higher. Doing this places the
collector above moderate snowfall accumulation and allows drifting
snow to more easily slide out from under the collector, which helps
ensure that snow does not cover the collector array.
Please refer to local regulations regarding snow loading precautions.
J. Storage Tanks
It is recommended that the lever on the pressure and temperature
relief valves (PTRV) on main pressure hot water storage tanks be
operated once every 6 months to ensure reliable operation. It is
important to raise and lower the lever gently, and be careful as the
water released will be HOT. Failure to operate the PTRV on a regular
basis could lead to failure of the component and the possibility of the
storage tank exploding.
It is recommended, and may also be a local regulation, that, in order to
expel water safely, the PTRV have a copper pipe connected and run to
an appropriate drainage location. The PTRV and drain outlet pipe must
not be sealed or blocked.
NOTE:
If the water heater is left in an operating condition and not used
for two weeks or more, a quantity of highly flammable hydrogen may
accumulate in the top of the water cylinder.
To dissipate hydrogen safely, it is recommended to turn on a hot
water tap for several minutes at a sink, basin, or bath, but not a
dishwasher, clothes washer, or other electrical or heat producing
appliance. During this process, there must be no smoking,
open flame, or electrical appliance operating nearby. Hydrogen
discharged through the tap will sound like air escaping. Failure
to dissipate hydrogen properly could result in explosion and fire,
serious property damage, severe personal injury, or death.
K. Hail Resistance
Solar collectors are surprisingly strong and able to handle significant
impact stresses once installed. Testing and impact stress modeling
proves that when installed at an angle of 40
o
or greater, collectors
are able to withstand impact from hail larger than 1” in diameter. The
ability of collectors to withstand hail impact is greatly influenced by
the angle of impact, so installing the collectors at low angles does
reduce their impact resistance.
Part 3 - Installation Information
A. Transport, Unpacking, and Inspection
Solar collectors are normally transported in a protective crate. Boxes
containing the mounting assemblies will generally accompany the
collectors.
Component List
Please familiarize yourself with the components listed on the packing
list. If any components are missing, and/or additional part(s) are
required, please contact your supplier.
