User Manual - Ground Mount Solar Hot Water System - August 2017
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Solar Hot Water Storage Tank
To obtain maximum performance the solar tank/system should be positioned as close as practical to the most
used hot water outlets. This will reduce the amount of “lag time” which is the amount of cold water discharged
through the outlet before the hot water reaches the outlet.
Frost Protection
Solargain’s ‘Open Loop’ split systems are fitted with an inbuilt frost protection mechanism in the solar control
unit designed to automatically circulate a small amount of water through the solar collector array when freezing
conditions occur. It is important to ensure that the power supply to the control unit is NEVER switched off during
normal day to day operation. Solargain split system has been tested to level 2 - severe frost condition according
to AS/NZS 2712:2007 Appendix E.
Warranty will not apply to frost damage collectors if the pump and/or controller are determined to be faulty
for any reason, including power failure except within the first 12 months. If installation is in a frost area, frost
protection is required.
It is the home owner’s responsibility to check the system before winter to d termine that the system is circulating
water to the collectors. This can be done by checking temperature of the pressure relief valve on a sunny day
in the late afternoon. If the valve is hot the pump and controller are working properly and this verifies that the
frost protection will function correctly. Failing to perform this check will render the home owner liable for the full
expense of collector replacement should frost damage result.
Solargain evacuated tubes are designed for installation conditions where temperatures fall below 2°C or
installation site is located above 800 metres altitude.
Going away on holidays?
If the water heater is left unused for two weeks or more, a small quantity of hydrogen gas (which is HIGHLY
flammable) may accumulate in the top water cylinder. To dissipate this gas safely it is recommended that a
sink or bath hot tap be turned on to dispel a couple of litres of water. During this procedure there should be no
smoking, open flames or any electrical appliances such as washing machines or dish washers operating nearby.
If Hydrogen is discharged through the tap, it will make a sound like air escaping.
