FAFCO Solar Hot Water System Owner's Manual - Maintenance
Minimum
Water
Level
Filler
Cap
Maintenance
Ensure Freeze Protection
Extended periods of cold weather can cause freezing in exposed parts of the system. The
system should be installed so that water in the solar collectors and exterior tubing can
completely gravity drain to the drainback tank when the system is not operating. If there is
any concern that the solar collectors and tubing are not sufficiently sloped to allow water to
gravity drain, contact your FAFCO
TM
contractor to discuss the option of adding non-toxic
anti-freeze (food grade propylene glycol) to the solar circulation loop.
FREEZE DAMAGE IS NOT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY
4
Maximize Energy Savings
You can increase energy savings by scheduling large hot water usage (such as laundry
and dishwasher) for the afternoon when there is plenty of free solar energy. If you have a
single tank system with water heater timer, turn the bottom element off for enhanced solar
performance
(this may negatively impact your delivered water temperature on poor weather days)
.
Check Water Level
It’s advisable to frequently check on your drainback tank water level. The
drainback tank site glass is equipped with a red “Minimum water level” sticker.
While the system is running, ensure the water is at or above the red line. If the
water level is below the red line, turn the system off and wait one hour. Fill
drainback tank to within one inch of the top of the tank. Replace the cap
before turning the system on.
Remove Roof Debris
Leaves and dirt may build up on and around your solar collectors. The solar
collectors should be kept free of debris for maximum performance.
- WARNING -
The following maintenance tasks involve working with high water pressure,
high water temperature, and high voltage or flammable gas and should only
be performed by a qualified FAFCO contractor :
Flush water heater
The solar storage tank (or electric water heater for single tank systems) should
be routinely flushed in order to prevent debris, sediment, or scale build up
from entering your FAFCO system. Flushing should be more frequent in regions
with poor water quality. Systems are typically flushed every 6 months to 2
years.
Clean Filter
In regions with poor water quality, it may be necessary to clean the filter
located inside the circulation module. Cleaning prevents debris, sediment, or
scale build up from reducing system performance and potentially damaging
the circulation pump.
Consult your FAFCO contractor for a maintenance program
Drain
Hose
Safe location to
drain hot water
Solar
Storage
Tank