tube caps, which are located in the manifold box. This will protect the bottom tip of the glass tube
from being broken if knocked. Do not remove the and/or expose the tubes to sunlight until you
install them, otherwise the inner tube and heat transfer fin will become very hot. The outer glass
surface will not become hot.
2.2. Heat pipes
If heat pipes are bent during handing, don't worry as they are not easily damaged. Just ensure they
are relatively straight before insertion into the evacuated tube.
2.3. Frame
Unpack the standard frame kit that is packed together with the manifold, if a flat roof frame or low
pitched roof frame is being used, those components will packed separately from the manifold. It
may be necessary to purchase bolts or other fasteners to suit the installation surface.
3.1 Plumbing Connection
Once the frame has been mounted and the manifold attached, the manifold header may be
connected to the system plumbing.
3.2 Choice of Piping Material
13mm OD, or 15mm OD copper piping is generally used for most solar collector installations. As
the flow rate is slow, a large diameter pipe is unnecessary and will only increase system costs and
heat loss.
3.3 Pressure Levels
Regardless of the installation configuration, pressure release values, expansion vessels and/or other
pressure control devices must be installed. T he solar loop should be designed to operate at no
more than 800kPa (PRV may be 850kPa). (800kPa =8bar=116psi) For installation where mains
pressure water is used, the system should ideally be designed to operate at a pressure of <500kPa,
achieved by use of a pressure limiting/reduction value.
3.4 Tempering value.
It is recommended, and may be required by regulations, that a temperature control device
(tempering value) be fitted into the hot water pipe between the water heater and bathrooms and
en-suites to reduce the risk of scalding. This is achieved by controlling the water temperature to
below 50℃/122F (temperature may be adjustable).
3.5 Temperature Sensor Insertion
The solar controller's temperature sensor should be coated with a thick layer of thermal paste and
inserted into the sensor port to the full depth. If the fit is too loose, slide a piece of copper plate or
wire in beside the sensor, Seal the sensor port opening with silicone sealant to prevent water
ingress. Ensure that sensors used on the collector are high temperature rated (up to 250℃/486F), in
particular the cable.
3.6. Wind and snow load
When installing the collector please consider the issue of wind resistance and the resultant stress
on the attachment points. the standard frame is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to
120km/h and 30cm snow accumulation without damage. For the areas with possibility for high
winds, additional reinforcement of attachment points may be required and can easily be supplied
