HTP PHE199-119S - Manual (Page 10)

10
LP- 204 REV. 3.25.14
D. COLLECTOR ANGLE, PLANE, AND DIRECTION
1. COLLECTOR DIRECTION
The collector should face the equator. In the northern hemisphere, this is due south, and in the southern hemisphere, due north. Facing
the collector in the correct direction and angle is important to ensure optimal heat output. A deviation of up to 15
o
from due south is
acceptable, and will have minimal effect on heat output.
2. COLLECTOR ANGLE (TILT)
It is common for collectors to be installed at an angle that corresponds to the installation latitude. While adhering to this guideline, an
angle of latitude +/- 10
o
is acceptable, and will not greatly reduce solar
output. The solar collector should be installed at an angle of between 20
– 80
o
to ensure optimal operation.
For year-round domestic hot water, the collector should be tilted to an
angle of equal to the latitude of the installation site. Add 15
o
to the
latitude to optimize for winter performance (space heating). Subtract 15
o
from the latitude to optimize for summer performance (pool heating).
Given the formula above, a solar collector installed at 30
o
N latitude
should face due south at an angle of 45
o
for wintertime advantage, and
15 o for summertime heating.
Preventing Overheating
To reduce summer heat output, angle the collector for optimal winter
absorption. This is achieved by installing the collector at an angle of
around 15
o
above the latitude angle (e.g. 45
o
at 30
o
N latitude). This
angle corresponds closely to the angle of the sun in the sky during the
winter months, thus maximizing winter output. Conversely, during the
summer when the sun is high in the sky, the relative collector surface
area exposed to sunlight is reduced, cutting overall heat production
considerably (by about 15%). This option is ideal for installations where
solar thermal is being used for space heating.
3. COLLECTOR PLANE (HORIZONTAL OR VERTICAL)
The collector could be installed vertically, but may be installed at an angle, such as sideways on a pitched roof. In vertical installations,
collectors may be insta
lled level, or with ¼” pitch towards the return port. See more detail in Part 2, Section D, Number 3.
E. COLLECTOR PIPING
Never use dielectric unions or galvanized steel fittings in the collector loop. Doing so will lead to corrosion, property damage, and
possible early water heater failure. Such damage IS NOT covered by warranty. Use only copper and brass fittings.
Collector piping requires the use of copper and brass fittings in the collector loop. To
avoid leaks and fluid loss, copper and brass ground joint unions should be used to join
the collectors. Use only lead-free solder. Engelhard Silvabrite 100 or equivalent is the
required soldering material. Use of 50/50 lead solder is expressly prohibited. Use of
galvanized steel, CPVC, PVC or any other non-rated plastic pipe is prohibited.
Penetrations through walls or other surfaces shall not allow intrusion by insects and/or
other vermin. Ensure that all structural penetrations are properly sealed with an
elastomer, such as Tremco “POLYroof”.
Piping in new solar installations may have dirt, grease, solder flux, or other impurities
that will affect the quality of HTF over time. Thorough cleaning is required before
charging new solar installations with glycol.
Ensure that there are no dips or low points in solar piping that could trap fluid and possibly rupture in freezing conditions. Copper
plumbers tape or tube strap is the required strapping material. The pipe insulation may not be compressed or crimped by the strapping
material.
The installation of all piping may not reduce the performance or rating of structural members or fire rated assemblies and must adhere
to all applicable local codes and ordinances.
Figure 1 - Suggested placement of solar collectors
Figure 2 – Sensor Placement