HTP PHE199-119S User Manual

Phoenix /

The solar energy system described in this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the minimum standards established by the SRCC. This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the SRCC.

NOTE TO CONSUMER: PLEASE KEEP ALL INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE.

Versa-Hydro

Solar Supplement

INSTALLATION

OPERATION

MAINTENANCE

TROUBLESHOOTING

Phoenix Models Versa-Hydro Models PH130-80S / 130-119S PHE130-80S / 130-119S PH199-80S / 199-119S PHE199-119S / 199-119S

NOTICE: HTP reserves the right to make product changes or updates without notice and will not be held liable for typographical errors in literature.

The surfaces of these products contacted by consumable water contain less than 0.25% lead by weight, as required by the Safe Drinking Water Act, Section 1417.

120 Braley Rd. P.O. Box 429 East Freetown, MA 02717-0429 www.htproducts.com

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The following defined terms are used throughout this manual to bring attention to the presence of hazards of various risk levels, or to important product information.

DANGER indicates an imminently hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury.

WARNING indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.

CAUTION indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.

CAUTION used without the safety alert symbol indicates a potentially hazardous situation which, if not avoided, may result in property

damage.

This manual must only be used by a qualified heating installer/service technician. Read and understand all instructions and safety messages in this manual before installing, operating, or servicing this water heater. Perform steps in the order given. Failure to comply could result in substantial property damage, severe personal injury, or death.

FOREWORD

This manual is intended to be used in conjunction with other literature provided with the Solar Water Heater. This includes all related control information. It is important that this manual, all other documents included with this system, and additional publications including Solar Water Heating System Design and Installation Guidelines, be reviewed in their entirety before beginning any work.

“The solar energy system described in this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the minimum standards established by the SRCC. This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the SRCC.”

The design of this solar system is approved by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). Any deviation from the approved specified SRCC components may affect your ability to certify this system.

Installation should be made in accordance with the regulations of the Authority Having Jurisdiction, local code authorities, and utility companies which pertain to this type of water heating equipment.

Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) – The Authority Having Jurisdiction may be a federal, state, local government, or individual such as a fire chief, fire marshal, chief of a fire prevention bureau, labor department or health department, building official or electrical inspector, or others having statutory authority. In some circumstances, the property owner of his/her agent assumes the role, and at government installations, the commanding officer or departmental official may be the AHJ.

NOTE: HTP, Inc. reserves the right to modify product technical specifications and components without prior notice.

FOR THE INSTALLER

INSTALLATION OR SERVICE OF THIS SOLAR WATER TANK IS REQUIRED TO BE PERFORMED BY LICENSED PROFESSIONALS WHERE SOLAR, PLUMBING AND ELECTRICAL WORK IS REQUIRED.

The installer should be guided by the instructions furnished with the tank, local codes and utility company requirements. Preference should be given to codes and requirements where they differ from the furnished instructions.

INSTALLATIONS MUST COMPLY WITH:

Local, state, provincial, and national codes, laws, regulations and ordinances.

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Solar Water Heating System Design and Installation Guidelines, SRCC OG-300, available from Solar Rating & Certification Corporation, 400 High Point Drive, Suite 400, Cocoa, FL 32926-6630, www.solar-rating.org.

The latest version of the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1, from American Gas Association Laboratories, 8501 East Pleasant Valley Road, Cleveland, OH 44131.

In Canada – CGA No. B149 (latest version), from Canadian Gas Association Laboratories, 55 Scarsdale Road, Don Mills, Ontario, Canada M3B 2R3. Also, Canadian Electrical Code C 22.1, from Canadian Standards Association, 5060 Spectrum Way, Suite 100, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4W 5N6.

Code for the Installation of Heat Producing Appliances (latest version), from American Insurance Association, 85 John Street, New York, NY 11038.

The latest version of the National Electrical Code, NFPA No. 70. In Canada, refer to Canadian Electrical Code C 22.1, from Canadian Standards Association, 5060 Spectrum Way, Suite 100,

Mississauga, Ontario, Canada L4W 5N6. NOTE: The Phoenix gas manifold and controls met safe lighting and other performance criteria when undergoing tests specified in

ANSI Z21.10.3 – latest edition.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5

PART 1 - GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION ........................................................................................................................... 5

A. PRECAUTIONS .......................................................................................................................................................................... 5

B. LOCAL INSTALLATION REGULATION ...................................................................................................................................... 6

C. CHEMICAL VAPOR CORROSION ............................................................................................................................................. 6

D. INSULATION BLANKETS ................................................................................................................................ ........................... 7

E. DOMESTIC HOT WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT ...................................................................................................... 7

F. FREEZE PROTECTION .............................................................................................................................................................. 7

PART 2 – IMPORTANT INSTALLATION INFORMATION .......................................................................................................... 7

A. SCOPE OF MANUAL .................................................................................................................................................................. 7

B. LOCAL STANDARDS AND AUTHORIZED PERSONS .............................................................................................................. 7

C. TERMINOLOGY ......................................................................................................................................................................... 7

D. SYSTEM DESIGN ...................................................................................................................................................................... 8

E. FLUID QUALITY ......................................................................................................................................................................... 8

F. CORROSION ................................................................................................................................................................ .............. 8

G. FREEZE PROTECTION ............................................................................................................................................................. 8

PART 3 - GENERAL SOLAR INFORMATION ............................................................................................................................ 8

A. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION ............................................................................................................................................................ 8

B. SOLAR SYSTEM DESIGN ......................................................................................................................................................... 9

C. SOLAR COLLECTOR INSTALLATION ...................................................................................................................................... 9

D. COLLECTOR ANGLE, PLANE, AND DIRECTION ................................................................................................................... 10

1. COLLECTOR DIRECTION ................................................................................................................................................................................. 10

2. COLLECTOR ANGLE (TILT) .............................................................................................................................................................................. 10

3. COLLECTOR PLANE (HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL) ....................................................................................................................................... 10

E. COLLECTOR PIPING ............................................................................................................................................................... 10

F. COLLECTOR LOOP PIPE INSULATION .................................................................................................................................. 11

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G. COLLECTOR SENSOR PLACEMENT ..................................................................................................................................... 11

H. AVOID SHADE ......................................................................................................................................................................... 11

I. LOCATION ................................................................................................................................................................................. 11

J. LIGHTNING PROTECTION ................................................................................................ ................................ ....................... 11

K. GALVANIC REACTION ............................................................................................................................................................ 11

L. WIND STRESS.......................................................................................................................................................................... 11

M. SNOW LOAD ........................................................................................................................................................................... 12

N. HAIL RESISTANCE .................................................................................................................................................................. 12

O. STORAGE TANKS ................................................................................................................................................................... 12

P. THERMAL EXPANSION (CLOSED LOOP SYSTEMS) ............................................................................................................ 12

PART 4 – SPECIFICATIONS ..................................................................................................................................................... 13

PART 5 - INSTALLATION ......................................................................................................................................................... 14

A. INSTALLATION CHECKLIST ................................................................................................................................................... 14

B. SOLAR WATER HEATER LOCATION ..................................................................................................................................... 15

PART 6 – PIPING ...................................................................................................................................................................... 16

A. POTABLE WATER PIPING ...................................................................................................................................................... 16

B. GENERAL PIPING DETAIL ...................................................................................................................................................... 17

C. SOLAR HEAT EXCHANGER PIPING ...................................................................................................................................... 17

D. TANK SENSOR PLACEMENT ................................................................................................................................................. 18

E. NECESSARY COMPONENTS FOR SOLAR WATER HEATER INSTALLATION .................................................................... 18

F. SOLAR PIPING WITH AIR HANDLER ...................................................................................................................................... 20

G. SOLAR PIPING WITH CENTRAL HEATING ............................................................................................................................ 21

H. TANK CONTROL ...................................................................................................................................................................... 22

I. CIRCULATOR SIZING ............................................................................................................................................................... 22

PART 7 - FLUID QUALITY ........................................................................................................................................................ 22

A. SOLAR LOOP FLUID QUALITY ............................................................................................................................................... 22

B. FLUID SAFETY LABELING ...................................................................................................................................................... 23

C. FREEZE PROTECTION ........................................................................................................................................................... 23

PART 8 – START-UP PREPARATION...................................................................................................................................... 23

A. CHARGING THE SYSTEM ....................................................................................................................................................... 23

B. COMMISSIONING THE SYSTEM ............................................................................................................................................ 24

PART 9 – SERVICE/MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES ............................................................................................................. 24

A. SHUTDOWN PROCEDURES ................................................................................................................................................... 24

B. VACATION SHUTDOWN .......................................................................................................................................................... 25

C. ESTIMATED LIFE OF COMPONENTS .................................................................................................................................... 25

D. TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE RELIEF VALVE................................................................................................................ 25

PART 10 - TROUBLESHOOTING ............................................................................................................................................. 25

A. LEAKS ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 25

B. OTHER PROBLEMS ................................................................................................................................................................. 25

C. OPERATING SUGGESTIONS FOR THE USER ...................................................................................................................... 25

PART 11 - SYSTEM PARTS LISTING....................................................................................................................................... 26

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NOTE: Failure to follow the procedures described in this manual WILL VOID the warranty.

INSTALLER – Read all instructions in this manual before installing. Perform steps in the order given.

USER – This manual is for use only by a qualified heating installer/service technician. Have this solar water heating system serviced/inspected by a qualified service technician annually.

FAILURE TO ADHERE TO THE GUIDELINES ON THIS PAGE AND HAVE THIS SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEM SERVICED/INSPECTED ANNUALLY CAN RESULT IN SUBSTANTIAL PROPERTY DAMAGE, SEVERE PERSONAL INJURY, OR DEATH.

NOTE: If any component of the solar water heating system is exposed to the following, do not operate until all corrective steps have

been made by a qualified serviceman:

1. FIRE

2. DAMAGE

3. WATER Any claims for damage or shortage in shipment must be filed immediately against the transportation company by the consignee.

DO NOT USE THIS SOLAR WATER HEATING SYSTEM IF ANY PART HAS BEEN SUBMERGED IN WATER. Immediately call a qualified service technician. Components MUST BE replaced if submerged. Attempting to operate a solar water heating system that has been even partially submerged could create numerous harmful conditions, such as a potential gas leakage causing a fire and/or explosion, or the release of mold, bacteria, or other harmful particulates into the air. Operating a previously submerged solar water heating system could result in property damage, severe personal injury, or death.

NOTE: Damage due to flood or submersion is considered an Act of God, and IS NOT covered under product warranty.

A. ESTIMATED COMPONENT LIFE ............................................................................................................................................. 26

B. WARRANTIES AND DISCLAIMERS ........................................................................................................................................ 26

MAINTENANCE NOTES ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 32

HTP CUSTOMER INSTALLATION RECORD FORM ............................................................................................................................................. 33

INTRODUCTION

Your solar water heater has an internal solar heat exchanger for use with solar collectors. When there is not sufficient solar energy, the water heater utilizes a gas-fired backup system to provide hot water. (Refer to solar piping details in this manual for suggested piping applications.)

Your solar system uses a circulation pump to circulate a propylene glycol/water heat transfer fluid solution (HTF) throughout a closed loop system. Closed loop propylene glycol systems provide freeze protection for the solar components.

This manual intends to familiarize you with the proper installation and maintenance of your solar water heating system. This system must be installed by a licensed solar or plumbing contractor in accordance with SRCC Standard OG-300 and all applicable national, state, and local codes.

Job site conditions will require your installation contractor to supply some or all of the following:

 Plumbing Connections  Piping and Insulation  Valves Between the Existing Domestic Water System and the Solar System

NOTE: Solar system performance and efficiency varies with factors such as: household hot water load, ambient air temperature, collector/roof pitch, collector orientation, and seasonal intensity.

PART 1 - GENERAL SAFETY INFORMATION

A. PRECAUTIONS

NOTE: When inquiring about service or troubleshooting, reference the model and serial numbers from the solar water heater rating label.

NOTE: OBTAIN ALL APPLICABLE PERMITS AND OBEY ALL LOCAL CODES.

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Install all system components and piping in such a way that does not reduce the performance of any fire rated assembly. Failure to do so may lead to fire, property damage, personal injury, or death.

Be sure to disconnect electrical power from the solar water heating system before performing service. Failure to do so could result in an electrical shock, property damage, serious personal injury, or death.

Improper installation or use may result in property damage. Such damage IS NOT covered by warranty.

NOTE: HTP DOES NOT WARRANT THIS WATER HEATER AGAINST FREEZE RELATED DAMAGE.

Only use this solar hot water system as intended and described in this installation manual. Any use other than described will void warranty and may lead to fire, property damage, personal injury, or death.

High heat sources (sources generating heat 100oF / 37oC or greater, such as stove pipes, space heaters, etc.) may damage plastic components of the water heater as well as plastic vent pipe materials. Such damages ARE NOT covered by warranty. It is recommended to keep a minimum clearance of 8” from high heat sources. Observe heat source manufacturer instructions, as well as local, state, provincial, and national codes, laws, regulations and ordinances when installing this water heater and related components near high heat sources.

NOTE: DAMAGE TO THE SOLAR WATER TANK, COLLECTOR, OR RELATED COMPONENTS CAUSED BY EXPOSURE TO CORROSIVE VAPORS IS NOT COVERED BY WARRANTY. The warranty is voided if failure of water tank is due to a corrosive

atmosphere. (Refer to the limited warranty for complete terms and conditions).

PRODUCTS TO AVOID

AREAS LIKELY TO HAVE CONTAMINANTS

Spray cans containing fluorocarbons

Dry cleaning/laundry areas and establishments

Permanent wave solutions

Swimming pools

Chlorinated waxes/cleaners

Metal fabrication plants

Chlorine-based swimming pool chemicals

Beauty shops

Calcium chloride used for thawing

Refrigeration repair shops

Sodium chloride used for water softening

Photo processing plants

Refrigerant leaks

Auto body shops

Paint or varnish removers

Plastic manufacturing plants

Hydrochloric or Muriatic acid

Furniture refinishing areas and establishments

Cements and glues

New building construction

Antistatic fabric softeners used in clothes dryers

Remodeling areas

Chlorine-type bleaches, laundry detergents, and cleaning solvents

Garages and workshops

Adhesives used to fasten building products

ALL PIPING AND PLUMBING CONNECTIONS IN CLOSED LOOP SYSTEMS SHOULD BE MADE WITH COPPER PIPE ONLY. No less than ¾” I.D. copper tube of the type meeting local codes must be used for piping. Pipe runs must be solidly attached with proper clamping methods. Soldered connections should be secured with 95/5 lead-free solder. Use only pipe rated for 250oF minimum on both the collector return and supply piping.

B. LOCAL INSTALLATION REGULATION

Installation of this solar water heater may be governed by individual local rules and regulations for this type of product, which must be observed. Always use the latest edition of codes. The installation, adjustment, service, and maintenance of the solar water heater must be done by a licensed professional who is qualified and experienced in the installation, service, and maintenance of solar hot water systems.

C. CHEMICAL VAPOR CORROSION

Table 1 – Chemical Contaminants

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Households with small children, disabled, or elderly persons may require a 120oF or lower temperature setting to prevent severe personal injury or death due to scalding.

Failure of the solar system due to freeze related damage IS NOT covered by warranty.

APPROXIMATE TIME / TEMPERATURE RELATIONSHIPS IN SCALDS

120oF

More than 5 minutes

125oF

1 ½ to 2 minutes

130oF

About 30 seconds

135oF

About 10 seconds

140oF

Less than 5 seconds

145oF

Less than 3 seconds

150oF

About 1 ½ seconds

155oF

About 1 second

Table 2

D. INSULATION BLANKETS

For installation of insulation blankets, refer to Solar Water Heating System Design and Installation Guidelines, SRCC OG-300.

E. DOMESTIC HOT WATER TEMPERATURE ADJUSTMENT

An ASSE 1017 rated mixing valve to avoid severe burns or death from scalding temperature IS REQUIRED PER SRCC OG-300.

F. FREEZE PROTECTION

NOTE: Consider piping and installation when determining heater location. Place heater in location not prone to freezing.

In order to meet health and safety regulations, solar system antifreeze fluid should be food grade polypropylene glycol, FDA rated as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS). The recommended glycol is DOWFROST or equivalent. Using proper concentrations of glycol, solar systems can be operated at ambient temperatures as low as -60oF. Freeze tolerance limits are based upon an assumed set of environmental conditions. Refer to the specification sheet included with the glycol for recommended concentrations. A glycol/water mix must not exceed 50%, unless the manufacture specifies that a different ratio is recommended for use with solar water heaters. Glycol may need to be changed periodically (every 3-5 years) to prevent it from becoming acidic; please refer to the guidelines provided by the glycol manufacturer regarding replacement.

PART 2 – IMPORTANT INSTALLATION INFORMATION

A. SCOPE OF MANUAL

This manual pertains only to the installation and operation of the HTP Phoenix and Versa-Hydro solar water heaters. Details for the installation, operation, and maintenance of the complete solar water heating system, including, but not limited to: the solar collector(s), boiler, pump, system controller, valves, and other plumbing components, should be provided separately by their respective manufacturers.

NOTE: This manual is primarily a reference document for authorized persons, as the solar water heater is not permitted to be installed by non-authorized persons.

B. LOCAL STANDARDS AND AUTHORIZED PERSONS

Installation must be completed in accordance with local standards and regulations. Installation must also be completed by a qualified tradesperson who holds relevant industry licenses or certificates. The term

“authorized person(s)” refers to a suitably qualified professional. Unless otherwise specified, no part of the HTP solar water heater may be inspected, repaired, or maintained by anybody other than an authorized person.

C. TERMINOLOGY

Solar terminology differs from region to region. To avoid confusion, please note the following:

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Supply – The plumbing line running from the outlet of the collector to the tank (or heat exchanger). Return – The plumbing line running from the tank (or heat exchanger) to the inlet of the collector. This line incorporates the circulation

pump.

D. SYSTEM DESIGN

PRESSURIZED CLOSED LOOP SYSTEMS

A closed loop system uses non-potable HTF and must be pressurized to less than 72.5 psi. Closed loop systems require an expansion tank to accommodate HTF expansion. The system should be designed to minimize stagnation after the tank temperature has been met; extensive stagnation may increase pH levels and glycol deterioration.

The expansion tank and plumbing must be properly sized so that the safety pressure relief valve will not activate except in the event of component failure or extreme conditions. The pressure release must be set at no more than 90 psi. (There may be exceptions in engineered designs for tall buildings.)

E. FLUID QUALITY

Water quality is very important. Water in direct flow through the solar collectors must first meet potable water requirements; any fluid circulated through the collectors should be non-corrosive to copper. In addition, water quality must meet the following requirements.

Hardness: Less than 7 grains Chloride levels: Less than 100 ppm pH levels: 6-8 TDS: Less than 2000 ppm Sodium: Less than 20 mGL

In order to meet health and safety regulations, glycol used should be food grade propylene glycol, FDA rated as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS). If using a glycol/water mix, distilled water is preferred. If distilled water is unavailable, the water must meet the above

requirements. The glycol content of the liquid must not exceed 50%, unless the manufacturer specifies that a different ratio is recommended for use with solar water heaters. Glycol should be checked periodically to prevent it from becoming acidic. Please refer to guidelines provided by the glycol manufacturer regarding glycol maintenance.

F. CORROSION

Both copper and stainless steel are susceptible to corrosion when, amongst other factors, high concentrations of chlorine are present. NOTE: Leakage of the solar water heater due to corrosion caused by improper water quality IS NOT covered by product warranty.

G. FREEZE PROTECTION

Freeze protection must be implemented in any regions that may experience freezing conditions at any time throughout the year. “Freeze tolerance limits are based upon an assumed set of environmental conditions. Extended periods of cold weather, including

ambient air temperatures below the specified limit, may cause freezing in exposed parts of the system. It is the owner’s responsibility to

keep the system’s freeze protection levels maintained in accordance with the supplier’s instructions if the air temperature is expected to approach the specified freeze tolerance limit.”

Closed loop systems: In areas with temperatures not falling below 23oF, a differential solar controller with freeze protection may be used (e.g. requiring pump to circulate if the manifold temperature approaches freezing). In an open loop system, a freeze valve (which opens to allow water to dribble out) could also be considered.

Closed loop systems: In areas with temperatures falling below 23oF, a propylene glycol/water mix should be used to provide freeze protection. Please refer to glycol manufacturer’s specifications about the temperature ranges the liquid can withstand. Only food grade propylene glycol, FDA rated as GRAS, should be used.

NOTE: HTP DOES NOT WARRANT THE SOLAR WATER HEATER AGAINST FREEZE-RELATED DAMAGE.

PART 3 - GENERAL SOLAR INFORMATION

A. SYSTEM DESCRIPTION

By using the sun’s energy to heat water, solar hot water heating systems help reduce the nation’s dependence on polluting fossil fuels. This reliable, efficient solar water heater meets the certification requirements of SRCC-OG-300.

Basic components of the solar water heating system include: the solar collector(s), a solar water heater, a circulator pump, a differential solar control, and an expansion tank. The types of solar systems in which the solar water heater can be installed include:

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Do not introduce HTF into any fittings on the heater except those clearly marked for that purpose.

All persons working on roofs should have completed a fall safety course and must be properly outfitted with appropriate safety equipment. Failure to follow this information could result in property damage, severe personal injury, or death.

Solar collectors should be covered at all times until installation is complete. Failure to follow this information could result in severe personal injury or death.

Pressurized Closed Loop Systems – Closed loop solar systems use a glycol/water mix as HTF, which protects the system from freezing. These systems operate at high pressures.

In systems using a glycol/water mix, freeze protection fluid must be non-toxic propylene glycol, FDA rated as GRAS. To protect the heat exchanger and other system components, regular scheduled maintenance must be established to monitor and maintain proper HTF pH levels.

The system components should carry temperature and pressure ratings equivalent to the design of the solar collector. To ensure system is appropriate for the installation climate, the solar collector ratings should be verified against the collector manufacturer specifications. Collector and storage tank temperatures can be read from the system controllers. Typical tank operating temperatures range from 40-80oF on the cold supply line to the 175oF tank high limit. The collector temperature sensor should be 5-20oF higher than the tank sensor during normal charging operation. During idle period, when there is no sun, the collector sensor will read the ambient temperature; in full sun, the sensor will read as high as 250oF. Temperatures vary depending on installation climate.

Using proper concentrations of glycol, solar systems can be operated at ambient temperatures as low as -60oF. Freeze tolerance limits

are based upon an assumed set of environmental conditions. Refer to the manufacturer’s specification sheet for recommended

concentrations. Depending on the controller model, the differential controller uses 10k ohm thermistors or 1k ohm RTDs to monitor the temperature

difference between the collector and the solar water heater. The controller turns on when the collector is 12-20oF above tank temperature and turns off when the differential drops to 4oF.

B. SOLAR SYSTEM DESIGN

System design should be completed prior to installation. Solar collectors need to be installed correctly to ensure high efficiency and, most importantly, safe and reliable operation. Please seek professional advice for the design and installation of your solar heating system.

NOTE: Only authorized licensed contractors are permitted to install the solar collector.

C. SOLAR COLLECTOR INSTALLATION

NOTE: The solar collector instructions are general in nature. Reference the solar collector manufacturer’s instructions for more specific and detailed installation information.

The solar collector installation contractor shall obtain all required permits and approvals when installing the solar system. The installation shall conform to all federal, state and local regulations governing solar water heating system installations. The contractor shall adhere to sound building safety and trade practices. Special consideration must be given to building code requirements for the penetration of structural members and fire rated assemblies.

Before installation, the contractor shall inspect the condition of the roof and notify the homeowner of any existing roof damage or necessary repairs. The most important structural consideration is to securely anchor the solar collector and solar strut mounting hardware to the structural members of the roof with stainless steel hanger or lag bolts. Consult with the collector manufacturer installation manual for proper guidelines in your application.

Preserving the integrity of the roof membrane is the most important roofing consideration. Ensure that all roof penetrations required to plumb and mount the solar collector are properly flashed and sealed in accordance with standard roofing practices. The recommended elastomer for sealing roof penetrations is Tremco “POLYroof”.

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Never use dielectric unions or galvanized steel fittings in the collector loop. Doing so will lead to corrosion, property damage, and possible early water heater failure. Such damage IS NOT covered by warranty. Use only copper and brass fittings.

Figure 1 - Suggested placement of solar collectors Figure 2 – Sensor Placement

D. COLLECTOR ANGLE, PLANE, AND DIRECTION

1. COLLECTOR DIRECTION

The collector should face the equator. In the northern hemisphere, this is due south, and in the southern hemisphere, due north. Facing the collector in the correct direction and angle is important to ensure optimal heat output. A deviation of up to 15o from due south is acceptable, and will have minimal effect on heat output.

2. COLLECTOR ANGLE (TILT)

It is common for collectors to be installed at an angle that corresponds to the installation latitude. While adhering to this guideline, an angle of latitude +/- 10o is acceptable, and will not greatly reduce solar output. The solar collector should be installed at an angle of between 20 – 80o to ensure optimal operation.

For year-round domestic hot water, the collector should be tilted to an angle of equal to the latitude of the installation site. Add 15o to the latitude to optimize for winter performance (space heating). Subtract 15o from the latitude to optimize for summer performance (pool heating).

Given the formula above, a solar collector installed at 30oN latitude should face due south at an angle of 45o for wintertime advantage, and 15o for summertime heating.

Preventing Overheating To reduce summer heat output, angle the collector for optimal winter absorption. This is achieved by installing the collector at an angle of around 15o above the latitude angle (e.g. 45o at 30oN latitude). This angle corresponds closely to the angle of the sun in the sky during the winter months, thus maximizing winter output. Conversely, during the summer when the sun is high in the sky, the relative collector surface area exposed to sunlight is reduced, cutting overall heat production considerably (by about 15%). This option is ideal for installations where solar thermal is being used for space heating.

3. COLLECTOR PLANE (HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL)

The collector could be installed vertically, but may be installed at an angle, such as sideways on a pitched roof. In vertical installations, collectors may be installed level, or with ¼” pitch towards the return port. See more detail in Part 2, Section D, Number 3.

E. COLLECTOR PIPING

Collector piping requires the use of copper and brass fittings in the collector loop. To avoid leaks and fluid loss, copper and brass ground joint unions should be used to join the collectors. Use only lead-free solder. Engelhard Silvabrite 100 or equivalent is the required soldering material. Use of 50/50 lead solder is expressly prohibited. Use of galvanized steel, CPVC, PVC or any other non-rated plastic pipe is prohibited.

Penetrations through walls or other surfaces shall not allow intrusion by insects and/or other vermin. Ensure that all structural penetrations are properly sealed with an elastomer, such as Tremco “POLYroof”.

Piping in new solar installations may have dirt, grease, solder flux, or other impurities that will affect the quality of HTF over time. Thorough cleaning is required before charging new solar installations with glycol.

Ensure that there are no dips or low points in solar piping that could trap fluid and possibly rupture in freezing conditions. Copper plumbers tape or tube strap is the required strapping material. The pipe insulation may not be compressed or crimped by the strapping material.

The installation of all piping may not reduce the performance or rating of structural members or fire rated assemblies and must adhere to all applicable local codes and ordinances.

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