Rheem 12104793 Installation Instructions Manual page 14

INSTALLATION – SOLAR COLLECTORS

The solar hot and solar cold pipes between the solar storage tank and the
solar collectors MUST BE of copper. All compression fittings must use
brass or copper olives.

The full length of the solar hot and solar cold pipes MUST BE insulated.
The insulation must:
 be of a closed cell type or equivalent, suitable for a solar water heating
application and capable of withstanding temperatures of up to 150°C,
which may be generated by the solar collectors under stagnation
conditions
The specification of the chosen insulation material should be checked
with the insulation manufacturer prior to installation as different
materials may vary in temperature tolerance.
 be at least 13 mm thick, however thicker insulation may be required to
comply with the requirements of either AS/NZS 3500.4 or
AS/NZS 3500.5:2012 Section 3 (for a Class 1a or Class 10 building) as
applicable under the Plumbing Code of Australia
 be weatherproof and UV resistant if exposed
 extend through any penetrations in the eaves, ceiling and roof
 cover valves and fittings in the solar pipe work
 be fitted up to and cover the connections on both the solar storage tank
and the solar collectors.
Note: Failure to observe these requirements also increases the risk
of freeze damage.
Uninsulated pipe work, including concealed in cavities and roof spaces or
where it may be in contact with a metal roof, may lead to freeze damage.
The system has NO WARRANTY for freeze damage if the solar hot and
solar cold pipes are not insulated in accordance with the installation
instructions.
The insulation is essential to assist in providing freeze protection, will offer
protection to a metal roof against corrosion due to water running off the
copper pipes, assist in avoiding accidental contact with the solar pipe work
as very high temperature water can flow from the solar collectors to the
solar storage tank, and also reduce pipe heat losses.
WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware
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