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The solar hot and solar cold pipe work between the solar Hiline storage tank and the solar
collector(s) are supplied in the pipe kit. The supplied copper solar hot and solar cold pipes MUST BE
used.
If the solar water heater is installed either on a metal roof or in a trafficable area, such as on an
accessible roof, then the solar hot and solar cold pipes must be insulated. The solar hot and solar
cold pipes may be required to be insulated to comply with local regulations.
If insulation is required, 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 the temperature of the water 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 AS/NZS 3500.4
be weatherproof and UV resistant
be fitted up to and cover the connections on both the solar storage tank and the solar collectors.
The insulation will offer corrosion protection to a metal roof against water runoff over the copper
pipe, assist in avoiding accidental contact with the solar pipe work as high temperature water can
flow from the solar collectors to the solar storage tank and also reduce pipe heat losses.
Plastic pipe MUST NOT be used, as it will not withstand the temperature and pressure of the water
generated by the solar collector(s) under stagnation conditions. The solar collector(s) can generate
extremely high water temperatures up to 150°C and high water pressure of 1000 kPa. Plastic pipe
cannot withstand these temperatures and pressures and MUST NOT be used. Failure of plastic pipe
can lead to the release of high temperature water and cause severe water damage and flooding.
There must be a continuous fall of a minimum 10° in the pipe work from the solar Hiline storage
tank to the solar collector(s). The highest point of the solar cold pipe and solar hot pipe must be
where they connect to the solar Hiline storage tank, otherwise thermosiphoning will not occur.
A non return valve MUST BE installed on the cold water line to the solar storage tank AFTER the
cold water branch to a temperature limiting device.
The solar water heater, including the collector circuit and solar collectors, is to be isolated during the
testing and commissioning of the heated water reticulation system in a building, in accordance with
Clause 11.1 and 11.3 (a) of AS/NZS 3500.4.
WARNING: Plumber – Be Aware
29
INSTALLATION – SOLAR COLLECTORS
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