Installation G
Solar Tube Company - Eco Airpump
www.ecoairpump.co.uk
Support Line: 08444 930099
3
General
Installation of a solar thermal heating system usually requires safe working at heights on a roof. It is essential to check that the
rafters are strong enough (rafters should have a minimum cross-sectional area of 75 sq cm); if in any doubt, ask a structural
engineer to advise.
Collector Positioning
The optimum performance of the collector will be achieved when it is positioned at a 50 to 60
tilt angle in a south
facing direction. A more vertical tilt angle will favour performance during the winter at the expense of reducing the
maximum performance during the summer. Evacuated tube collectors using radial absorbers (such as the SPA
models) will perform well even when not pointing due south. However, it will be necessary to increase the number
of tubes over what would be expected for a due south installation:
Position
Allow % extra evacuated tubes
West
25%
South West
10%
South East
20%
East
35%
An alternative is to fit collectors to more than one roof surface. For example, collectors can be fitted to east and
west facing elevations in conjunction with an upgraded controller (such as the Resol BS Plus) switching the flow
from the east to the west collector during the day via a motorised 3-way valve.
For flat roofs, the use of a Flat Roof Mounting Frame is recommended.
Collector Installation
The collector is typically attached to the roof by stainless steel brackets or by stainless steel banding (some
installers use other methods). The brackets are fixed directly to the rafters where possible, or to noggins fitted
between rafters. Fitment to roof battens is not recommended.
