Rheem SolPak Use and Care Manual - Page 4
Introduction - cost
View all Rheem SolPak manuals
Add to My Manuals
Save this manual to your list of manuals |
Page 4 highlights
Introduction Thank you for purchasing a solar water heating system. It is one of the most effective and troublefree systems available today. In addition to reducing your water-heating bills, it will help preserve precious natural resources by using free energy from the sun. As with an electric or gas water heater, your new solar water heating system operates automatically to ensure you will always have an ample supply of hot water. However, there are simple steps you can take to increase both its efficiency and service life. This manual provides the manufacturers recommended procedures for solar water-heating systems. The procedures are essential for correct installation, troubleshooting and maintenance. Read each section of this manual thoroughly before beginning work on the system. ! CAUTION: Changes to the design or intended use of the Solar Water Heating System will void the manufacturers warranty. Installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance must be performed by a qualified technician. This manual will help you get the most out of your solar water heating system. Please read it carefully when the installation is complete, and review it from time to time to refresh your memory about the service requirements and safety measures. The Operation section of the manual contains important information regarding the system procedures as well as safety measures pertaining to the system. It is important that you follow these guidelines to ensure safe, efficient and trouble-free operation. While the system requires very little maintenance, there will be a periodic need for some upkeep. The Maintenance section outlines those requirements for service, which you may do yourself, as well as those procedures best performed by a qualified service technician. The Troubleshooting section contains steps you can take if the system is not performing, as it should. The solar energy system described by this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the minimum standards established by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the SRCC. The solar energy system described by this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the minimum standards established by the Florida Solar Energy Center, in accordance with Section 377.705, Florida Statutes. This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the Florida 4 Solar Energy Center or the state of Florida. The components of the system include a water storage tank, solar collector panels, expansion tank, pump valves and fittings. In locations which are subject to temperatures below 41°F, a mixture of heat transfer fluid and water circulates through the solar collector panels. This fluid is heated by the sun, then circulated through a heat exchange, heating the potable (drinking) water inside the storage tank. The heat transfer fluid is a non-toxic, food-grade liquid, which provides freeze protection for the closed loop heat transfer loop. It is colored to differentiate the closed system fluid from the potable water supply. This circulation of the heat transfer fluid is accomplished by a pump and sensors. These solar water heaters are referred to as closed loop systems. Your hot water is stored in a steel tank lined with porcelain enamel and thickly insulated to help maintain the water temperature throughout the day and night. To ensure your hot water supply is never depleted, the system is equipped with a backup heating element.. When there may be insufficient solar energy, you are still assured of all the hot water you will need. While your system is one of the most efficient available, there are two simple steps you can take to increase your water-heating cost savings. Keep the use of the Backup Heater to a Minimum You can save the most money on your water-heating bills by using the backup heating element on your system as little as possible. If the sun shines brightly between 10 am and 3 pm, enough heat will normally be generated to keep the water hot throughout the rest of the day and night. However, on days when the sky is cloudy or when large quantities of hot water are being used, we suggest that the backup heating element be left "ON" overnight to ensure adequate hot water the next morning. Try to use Hot Water during Daylight Hours When possible, schedule heavy hot water use, such as dish washing, laundry and showers, in the middle of the day. If hot water usage occurs while the sun is up, the fresh (cold) water added to the storage tank is heated more quickly. When water is used late in the day or at night, the fresh water entering the tank will be heated by the heating element so hot water is available in the morning.