8
P
IPE
I
NSTALLATION
Careful consideration of the proper piping of the system should be done prior to a final decision
being made on the collector mounting. The collectors and piping should slope slightly
downward, toward the tank, in order to allow for draining in freezing conditions.
Piping should consist of copper tube (Type M), insulated with at least ½” Armaflex pipe
insulation or similar and be wrapped with aluminum tape in all areas exposed to UV radiation.
All soldered connections require 95/5 solder.
The cold-water inlet (supply) pipe connection should be made at the lowest corner of the
collector. The hot-water outlet (return) pipe connection should be made at the opposite corner of
the cold-water inlet. The hot-water return should have the shortest possible run back to the
storage tank to avoid heat loss.
The Vacuum Relief Valve (Part #6), Automatic Air Vent (Part #7), Pressure Relief Valve (Part
#8), and Freeze Protection Valve (Part #5), should be plumbed into the return line as illustrated
in the System Schematic on page 12 of this manual.
It is extremely important to take special care in weather proofing the piping installation through
the roof.
1.
Drill a hole the same diameter as the copper piping being utilized in the system
installation being careful not to place the opening above the collector supply point.
The system will not drain properly if the opening is above the above the supply point.
2.
Cement a copper roof flashing around the pre-drilled hole. The upper edge of the
flashing should slide underneath the adjoining shingle.
3.
Push the copper tube up through the roof flashing. Slide the flashing cap over the
copper tubing so it rests on the flashing opening. The wiring for the Photovoltaic
Module should also be run through this the return line flashing.
4.
After all of the piping is completed, solder the flashing cap into place.
5.
Utilizing a polybutalyne adhesive, finish weather proofing the roof flashing.
