Users should regularly check the temperatures which the solar control panel is re-
cording. With the SC range of controllers, simply pressing the ‘SET’ button on the
fascia once will display the upper and lower collector temperatures since the control
panel was last reset. If the collector temperatures have been excessively high i.e. over
170˚C, it is recommended that the antifreeze level be checked using a refractometer
by a qualified engineer. A sample of the solar antifreeze fluid can be extracted from
the pump station at the pump itself. The large centre of the pump hub can be opened
with a large flathead screwdriver. This should be opened slowly until a few drops
of the antifreeze fluid are released. A sample of the fluid placed on the glass of the
refractometer will display the level of antifreeze in the system. If the antifreeze has
lost its antifreeze properties the system should be refilled with fresh solar fluid. It is
recommended that the solar system is serviced annually by a qualified engineer and
immediately if the system shows evidence of having lost pressure or has discharged
liquid at the pressure relief valve. The solar antifreeze fluid should always be replaced
after 7 years.
Maintenance schedule
A qualified person should service the system at the recommended intervals, us-
ing the maintenance schedule below. In addition the user should check the system
pressure at regular intervals. A visual inspection of the pressure gauge is required to
check that the system pressure is maintained at the level noted below. The service
engineer should complete the following; the shaded boxes should be completed if
the system requires refilling:
Servicing and Maintenance
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