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8. Installation #7: Disconnecting Hot Water Heater
SHUT OFF water and electricity to the water heater. Using a tube cutter, disconnect the water heaters in
and out copper pipes from the house. Some copper pipes, depending on how your water heater was
constructed, will need to be blowtorched to melt the previous soldering job before being disconnected.
Disconnect the electrical wiring running from the house to the water heater.
9. Installation #8: Soldering the Water Heater and Solar Panel
It is now time to connect the copper pipes from the water heater to the solar panel. With a tube cutter,
cut the pipe to the proper length. Shine the end of each pipe at the point where it will go into the fitting
so the copper is as bright as a new penny. Do not touch the shined metal with your fingers, which will
leave grease on the pipe that tends to prevent the solder from sticking properly. Use a small brush to
apply a light, evenly spread of flux to the tube end. Test the tube fitting before soldering. Heat around
the joint and be careful not to touch the solder with the flame. Hold the solder still and it will melt the
wire and run into the joints, making the two copper ends become one.
*Always wear gloves in case your hand comes in contact with the hot pipe or solder. Eye protection is
also required.
10. Installation #9: Drain Valve Installation
Instructions may vary depending on water heater type. Tighten the drain valve to the water heater.
Once the drain valve is firmly attached to the water heater, turn off valve to prevent leakage.
11. Installation #10: Strap Copper Tubing
To prevent any damage to the flexible copper tubing running from the solar panel water heater to the
house water heater, cover the tubing with copper tubing foam. To ensure that the copper tubing is
secure, strap the tubing to support beams throughout attic along the tubing's path.
Enjoy the savings from your new Solar Water Heater from
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