Operating Instructions
General
The Solpal system only offers unlimited performance when installed in frost-free zones. If the temperature falls below 20°F for 18 con-
secutive hours or 10°F for 6 consecutive hours, the Solpal system must be drained and covered. The Limited Warranty is void, if you
do not drain and cover the Solpal under the temperature conditions described above. Appropriate insulation or pipe heat tracing must be
provided on-site to prevent hot and cold water pipes from freezing. A thermal mixer, at which the required water temperature can be set,
must always be installed at the hot water outlet.
The safety valve provided must be installed at the cold water connection of the Solpal system to limit positive pressure in the water circuit.
The freeze tolerance limits are based upon an assumed set of environmental conditions. Extended periods of cold weather, including
ambient air temperatures below the specified limit, may cause freezing in exposed parts of the system. It is the owner's responsibility to
protect the Solpal system in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions if the air temperature is anticipated to approach the specified
freeze tolerance limits.
Operating and Filling Instructions
The Solpal system is delivered with a protective film on the solar glass. Do not remove this film, which blocks the sunlight, until after
the system has been filled with water. Otherwise the system components can be damaged because the unblocked sunlight heats up the
empty system which lacks water to absorb the heat. Remove the protective film after the system has been filled, as it serves no other
purpose. It is recommended that you fill the system within 2 weeks after installation, as otherwise residue from the film may adhere to the
solar glass. Repeat filling and flushing until you are sure that all air has been removed from the system. Make sure that the maximum op-
erating pressure stated on the type plate or in the installation instructions is not exceeded. Check to make sure that all safety components
have been installed in accordance with the hydraulic diagram (in the chapter "Hydraulic Connection" in this manual) before you open the
water supply and fill the system before initial start-up.
1.
If possible, fill the collector in the morning before sun light heats up the absorber.
2.
It is recommended that you fill the collector before you connect the return piping to the collector outlet, or open the pressure relief
valve or open the boiler drain on the return line, or that you make in some other fashion sure that the system is vented to the atmo-
sphere. Failure to follow these instructions could void the warranty and damage the system.
3.
Set the flow control valves to the solar pre-heat position. Consult system valve position drawings. Close the boiler drain on the supply
side to the solar loop piping. Open the boiler drain on the return side.
4.
It is most important that the unit be vented to the atmosphere before and while being filled. It is recommended that the collector
be filled before connecting the return piping to the collector outlet, or open the pressure relief valve or open the boiler drain on the
return line, or in some other fashion make sure the unit is vented to the atmosphere. Failure to follow these instructions could void
the warranty and damage the unit.
5.
Open the cold water shut-off valve to fill the collector. Allow the air to be purged from the system through the open boiler drain on
the return side of the solar loop piping.
6.
Allow water to flow from the system for several minutes to flush out the collector and the piping.
7.
Close the open boiler drain. Carefully inspect the system for leaks. Open the 2-way ball valve (#4 in the plumbing drawings).
8.
Turn on a hot water faucet in the house to purge any remaining air from the system.
9.
Make sure all FSEC, SRCC and manufacturer required labels are placed on the system. Consult FSEC or SRCC appendix for required
labels and their placements.
10. For installation and operation of the instantaneous water heater, please follow the manufacturer operation manual
Instructions on Maintenance/Draining the System
Conduct an inspection of the Solpal system at least annually for any damage, leakage and soiling. The manufacturer recommends annual
maintenance by a qualified specialist (licensed installer, contractor, plumber, HVAC and solar contractor). For maintenance or repair work
on the Solpal system that requires the water content to be drained off, the entire system must be covered by a light-reflective cloth or foil
to prevent damage by possible over heating. A original cover is available at your Solpal partner.
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