Specifications

www.aetsolar.com Open Loop / PV - Page 19
OPERATIONAL CHECKLIST
Before the system is turned on, the piping and electrical systems should be evaluated to see if they match
the supplied drawings. If you are satisfied that the system is installed correctly, it should be filled and
powered according to the preceding instructions. When the system is in the operational mode, care
should be taken to check all piping for leaks and to make sure sufficient insulation has been used to
provide maximum system efficiency. All modes of operation should be checked by the installer to assure
proper functioning under all conditions.
Although operational checks may include physical contact (by touch) with the collector return pipe and the
pump housing (for heat and or vibration), the addition of thermometers in the feed and return pipes or a
flow meter in the feed line would provide a visual indication of operation. These items are not part of the
supplied system and would be available through your solar contractor/installer.
VACATION PROCEDURES
If no hot water is to be used for some time, the system should be de-energized and drained. Follow
instruction below; “Leaks in the solar loop” to shut the system down. To re-energize the system, refer to
the OPEN LOOP START-UP section of this manual.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
Problems with systems usually fall under two categories: system leaks or lack of sufficient solar heated
water.
LEAKS
If leaks exist, the system should be shut down for repairs.
Leaks at the tank:
1. Turn off the circuit breaker to the water storage tank and unplug the power to the controller (A/C
controlled) or switch the toggle switch to the off position (PV controlled).
2. Close the cold water shut-off valve and close the isolation ball valves to the collector(s).
3. Connect one end of a garden hose to the tank drain valve placing the opposite end of the hose at
a location suitable for draining.
4. Open the tank drain valve and the hot water valve of any fixture with the premises served by the
water heater.
5. Allow the tank to drain and make the necessary repair.
6. Recharge the system as described in the Open Loop Start-Up section of this manual.
Leaks in the solar loop:
1. Unplug the power to the controller (A/C controlled) or switch the toggle switch to the off position
(PV controlled).
2. Close the isolation ball valves to the collector(s).
3. Connect one end of a garden hose to the collector feed boiler drain valve and a washing machine
hose to the collector return boiler drain. Place the opposite end of the garden hose in a location
suitable for draining and the opposite end of the washing machine hose in a 5 gallon bucket.
4. Open the collector feed drain valve and then slowly open the collector return drain valve. The
majority of fluid in this part of the system should drain through the collector feed drain valve.
5. Allow the solar loop to drain and make the necessary repair.
6. Recharge the system as described in the Open Loop Start-Up section of this manual.
There is a possibility that what appears to be leaks may be condensation on the pipes. Also water
escaping for the T&P relief valve may be an indication of proper function as they are designed to vent off
excess temperature and pressure.