SolarAttic PCS1 User Manual

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SolarAttic™

Pool Heater Manual

SOLAR Without PANELS

SolarAttic, Inc.

Elk River, Minnesota 55330

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Page 2 Checked spelling. 5/1/95 Updated Troubleshooting Guide to include RelayÕs Wing Nut. 3/28/96 Inserted PCS1 Photo & Specifications into pages 2 & 3 of section 1. Inserted BTU heat transfer graphs into page 7 of section 2. Inserted Equipment Pad plumbing photos into pages 19 &...
Page 3: Valuable Coupon
The "SolarAtticª Pool Heater Manual" is supplied free of charge to all purchasers of PCS1 Systems. If you purchased this manual separately, you can use this coupon to deduct the complete cost of your manual from any PCS1 System purchased. There is no time limit on this coupon. Record your manual purchase here.
Page 4: Notice
NOTICE This manual is a PCS1 reference guide . It is not designed to answer all of the technical questions that could arise. The manual illustrates one method of installing the PCS1. Technical issues that are common to all installations are discussed in length.
Page 5: Table Of Contents
Factory Shipment: Location of Temperature Sensors ..........11 Factory Shipment: Damaged Equipment; Visible External Damage ....12 PCS1 Shipping Crate: External Damage Inspection..........13 PCS1 Shipping Crate: Internal Damage Inspection ..........14 PCS1 Serial Number......................15 SECTION 2: HEATING DATA S2-1 PCS1 Solar Theory ......................
Page 6 Description - Alternate Wiring Diagram A ............... 40 Pool Pump On Timer - Alternate Wiring Diagram B ..........41 Description - Alternate Wiring Diagram B..............42 Pump + PCS1 On Timer - Alternate Wiring Diagram C......... 43 Description - Alternate Wiring Diagram C..............44 ........... 45 STEP THREE: AUTOMATING THE PCS1 WITH THE LX220 LX220 Installation Process...................
Page 7 SECTION ONE SYSTEM ARRIVAL Page S1-1 SECTION 1 - SYSTEM ARRIVAL...
Page 8: Section 1: System Arrival S1-1
“conduction.” The attic functions as a storage and heat transfer area. The PCS1 is physically located inside the attic and then transfers this solar radiation from the attic air into the swimming pool’s water through a process called “forced air convection.”...
Page 9: Specifications
¥ Attic access: Fits through standard 24" o.c. trusses ¥ Minimum access opening recommended: 21"x 31" ¥ Can be disassembled for smaller access openings ¥ PCS1 Size: 33"W x 30"H x 20"D ¥ PCS1 Weight: 135 pounds ¥ Shipping Crate Size: 42"W x 38"H x 24"D ¥...
Page 10: Limited Warranty
Limited Warranty All PCS1 convection units are warranted to be free from defects in material and workmanship for a period of eighteen months from the date of shipment from the factory. This warranty covers all parts and labor to correct manufacturing defects, but does not cover incidental fin damage nor any corrosive damage to heat transfer coils caused by improperly maintained chemical Ph levels in pools.
Page 11: Dialog Manual
Due to the unlimited variations in swimming pools, their support systems, and the homes in which the PCS1 is installed -- a Òstep by stepÓ manual is not feasible. This manual, therefore, explains all of the technical issues and provides the installer with a general installation process to follow.
Page 12 ALL OF THESE CAUTION NOTES CHILDREN CAUTION SEVERAL SHARP EDGES ON THE PCS1 CAN CAUSE CUTS OR INJURIES. THIS IS NOT A PRODUCT THAT CHILDREN SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO TOUCH. THEIR NATURAL CURIOSITY CAN RESULT IN INJURY OR ACCIDENT. **KEEP...
Page 13 ELECTRICAL CAUTION DANGER: THIS PRODUCT USES 220 VAC AND CAN CAUSE A FATAL INJURY. THE MANUAL ASSUMES AN EXPERIENCED ELECTRICIAN IS BEING EMPLOYED. ALL ELECTRICAL WIRING MUST BE DONE IN ACCORDANCE WITH APPLICABLE CODES. PLUMBING CAUTION THIS PRODUCT REQUIRES PVC CEMENT WELDING AND THE MANUAL ASSUMES AN EXPERIENCED PLUMBER IS BEING EMPLOYED.
Page 14 FIN CAUTION THE FINS ON THE PCS1 COIL ARE SHARP AND CAN CAUSE A RAZOR- LIKE CUT IF YOUR HAND OR ARM COME INTO CONTACT WITH THEM. TAKE APPROPRIATE CARE DURING INSTALLATION AND DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT WITH THE FINS OF THE COIL. IF THE COIL FINS ARE ACCIDENTALLY DAMAGED, THEY CAN BE ÒCOMBEDÓ...
Page 15 THE PCS1 REAR COIL SIDE WITH ANY SHEET METAL SCREW GREATER THAN ONE-HALF INCH (1/2Ó) IN LENGTH. DOING SO CAN DAMAGE THE PCS1 WATER COIL BY PUNCTURING ONE OF THE COILÕS WATER PIPES OR MANIFOLDS. WEIGHT CAUTION THE PCS1 WEIGHS 240-253 LBS CRATED AND 135 LBS UNCRATED. IN ADDITION, THE UNIT IS BULKY.
Page 16 TO BE INADVERTENTLY ROUTED TO DISCONNECTED ATTIC PIPES. IF THE PCS1 IS DISCONNECTED FROM THE ATTIC PIPES, DISCONNECT THE PUMP AND REMOVE THE VALVE CONTROLS AND HANDLES DURING SERVICE. OR RECONNECT A BYPASS PIPE IN PLACE OF THE PCS1 DURING ITS REMOVAL. Page S1-10 SECTION 1 - SYSTEM ARRIVAL...
Page 17 The PCS1 convection unit is shipped in a custom designed crate. It is shown on the page after next. When ordered with the PCS1, the LX220 solar controller and valve(s) are packed inside the crate to the right of the PCS1. On occasion, the controller and valve(s) MAY be shipped separately in one or more additional boxes.
Page 18 DAMAGED EQUIPMENT THE EQUIPMENT LEFT THE FACTORY INTACT. IF IT IS RECEIVED IN A DAMAGED CONDITION, THE CARRIER MUST PAY FOR THE DAMAGE. FILE A CLAIM -- IMMEDIATELY -- IF THE EQUIPMENT IS RECEIVED IN A DAMAGED CONDITION. THIS INCLUDES INTERNAL DAMAGES!! USUALLY, IF THERE IS NO EXTERNAL DAMAGE -- THERE PROBABLY IS NO INTERNAL DAMAGE.
Page 19 PCS1 SHIPPING CRATE Crate weight 235-256 Lbs DO NOT STACK OR DROP FOB From FREIGHT COLLECT TO: 1 of 1 SolarAttic, Inc. Central Pools, Inc. 15548 95th Circle NE 2345 Penn Ave Elk River, MN 55330 Location, N.Y. 01121 (612) 441-3440...
Page 20 The shipping materials can be reused in the installation of the PCS1. The plywood can be used as a base in which the PCS1 can rest on and the foam can be used under the PCS1 to dampen any vibration present from the PCS1. NOTE: a small amount of vibration is normal from the PCS1 convection unit.
Page 21: Pcs1 Serial Number
PCS1 SERIAL NUMBER Each PCS1 is given a seven digit serial number which is inscribed onto the top inlet manifold pipe. SEVEN DIGIT SERIAL NUMBER Scribed on top of coil EXAMPLE: 0380105 Intake Manifold. Page S1-15 SECTION 1 - SYSTEM ARRIVAL...
Page 22 SECTION TWO HEATING DATA Page S2-1 SECTION 2 - HEATING DATA...
Page 23: Section 2: Heating Data S2-1
2. Roof is a massive solar collector 3. Roof absorbs solar heat energy 4. Roof conducts heat energy into attic 5. Attic stores/builds up heat energy 6. PCS1 removes heat from attic 7. PCS1 transfers heat to pool 8. Solar process is continuous Page S2-2...
Page 24: Pcs1 Solar Heating
The PCS1 behaves just like a solar panel system in that it will bring the pool up to temperature over a two week period and then work to keep it there.
Page 25: Empirical Tracking
The data supplied below is an example of the PCS1Õs actual performance near Jacksonville, Florida during 1989. It can be observed that the PCS1 raised the poolÕs temperature from 3 to 8° F in a single day. A more typical rise in the poolÕs temperature is 1 to 2°...
Page 26: Pcs1 Operating Curves
0 . 0 0 FLOW RATE IN GPM These operating curves show the heat transfer range of the PCS1. By knowing the flow rate in gallons per minute, the attic's temperature and the pool's temperature -- both the BTU hourly rate of heat transfer and the output rise in degrees Fahrenheit from the PCS1 can be accurately predicted.
Page 27 The attic temperature should be measured inside the attic at or near its peak. Once operating, the PCS1 will stratify the attic with lower temperatures at the attic floor and higher temperatures at its peak.
Page 28: Btus Vs Gpm Curve
BTUS Vs GPM ∆ BTUS Vs SECTION 2 - HEATING DATA Page S2-7...
Page 29: Pool Heaters
While gas heaters can be purchased and installed at a lower price than the PCS1, they quickly make up the difference in cost in the form of Òenergy consumedÓ. Gas heaters represent the majority of the heaters sold today and typically will cost $150.00 or more per month to operate.
Page 30: Solar Panel Problems
Solar Panel Problems The following problems can occur with solar panels: 1 Massive roof installations 2 Roof rotting 3 Deterioration of panels 4 Plugged panel orifices 5 Vandal damage 6 Large surface areas 7 Orientation towards sun 8 Wind damage 9 Glazing of panels 10 Glass breakage 11 Glass cracking...
Page 31: Gas Heater Problems
Gas Heater Problems The following problems can occur with gas heaters: 1 Fouling of the air quality 2 Contributing to the ÒGreenhouse EffectÓ 3 High monthly fuel costs 4 Shortages of fuel 5 Fuel leakage 6 Runaway operating costs 7 Restrictive energy use laws 8 Flow rate problems 9 Fire problems 10 Copper heat sinks...
Page 32: Heat Pump Problems
Heat Pump Problems The following problems can occur with heat pumps 1 Fouling of the air quality 2 Contributing to the ÒOzone problemÓ 3 Questionable fuel savings 4 Shortages of maintenance CFC chemicals 5 CFC chemical leakage 6 Compressor problems 7 Restrictive energy use laws 8 Flow rate problems 9 Large current requirements...
Page 33: Ventilation
Certain types of passive ventilation can actually improve the heat transfer characteristics of the PCS1. We know that the PCS1 works fine with twice the passive ventilation that a home was designed with 15 or more years ago. We know that newer homes are being built today with more passive ventilation.
Page 34 SECTION THREE INSTALLATION Page S3-1 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 35: Section 3: Installation S3-1
Some simple dos and don'ts! 1. Heat rises even in a hot attic. Locate the PCS1 as high in the attic as is practical. 2. Airflow through the PCS1 is important. Do not obstruct air going in or out of the unit.
Page 36: Installation Process [Basic]
INSTALLATION PROCESS [BASIC] 1. Retrofit support system with new valves 2. Install the PCS1 3. Automate the PCS1 The installation discussions that follow will amplify this basic installation process and provide plumbing and electrical details. NOTICE: It may be necessary to modify the diagrams supplied depending upon local installation requirements including code restrictions.
Page 37: Suggested Tool Lists
Suggested Tool Lists INSTALLATION TOOLS Cable Hoist/Puller tool (used to raise PCS1 into attic) Reciprocating Saw (used to enlarge a closet access to attic space) Circular Saw Hacksaw Hammer PVC pipe cutting tool (otherwise use hacksaw) Screwdriver(s) Ladder(s) Flashlight Other forms of lighting (for use in attic)
Page 38: Suggested Materials
[male or female pipe threads]. OTHER MATERIALS - 220 vac 20 amp Outlet & Box: Leviton #5821 or equivalent [PCS1 simply plugs in] - 22 gauge wire for attic thermistor [temperature sensor] - Silicone Sealant (for use on PCS1 manifold pipe threads)
Page 39: Pcs1 Parts List
PCS1 PARTS LIST PART# DESCRIPTION OF PART 11001 Cabinet Top Panel 11002 Cabinet Base Pan 11003 Cabinet Right Panel [facing fan blade] 11004 Cabinet Left Panel 11005 Venturi 11006 Front Protective Grille 11007 Grille mounting brackets (2 on each grille)
Page 40: Description Of Valves
Description of Valves A. Solar Bypass Valve Function: Allows the pool water to be routed up to the PCS1 for extracting the heat from the attic. Operated automatically from the Compool LX220/2Y controller. Can be manually operated but this is not recommended since the PCS1 can both heat and cool pools.
Page 41 Retrofitting the support system is the most difficult part of installing the PCS1. The reason for this is the generally rigid and permanent nature of the typical pvc type support systemÕs plumbing. This usually means having to carve up the pvc pipe and not being able to salvage and reuse the fittings and in some cases the valves also.
Page 42: New Layout
7. Is 110 or 220 vac power available from pump for the LX220 solar controller? 8. Can 220 vac power be run from the LX220 to the PCS1 in the attic? 9. Can the thermistor temperature sensor wire be run from LX220 to PCS1?
Page 43: Plumbing Process
E. Permanently cement the various pvc parts together. F. Connect remaining parts together. G. Connect a short section of pipe between the PCS1 inlet and outlet lines 1. this creates a temporary Òbypass loopÓ at the support system. H. Test the operation of the completed support system.
Page 44: Plumbing Notes
NOTE: the bypass loop, when installed within the attic, can take the form of a section of pipe with union fittings identical to those on the PCS1. An attic bypass loop is helpful when the entire installation can be completed and there is a delay in the PCS1 delivery.
Page 45 6. The flexible pvc pipe end that connects to the PCS1 inlet and outlet should be equipped with a PVC UNION that allows for a quick disconnect. This union should be cemented onto the flex pvc outside of the attic environment. There is absolutely no need to do any pvc cementing within the attic itself.
Page 46 This is set internally by cams and micro switches. 19. Automatic drain down of the PCS1, in the off mode, can be obtained by installing a solar drain down kit. This is available from SolarAttic, Inc and consists...
Page 47 1/4Ó plastic tube connected from the inlet line to the outlet line of the PCS1 at the support system and above the check valve. Whether to install this is up to the installer. The PCS1 holds approximately 5 gallons of water.
Page 48: Operating Modes
OPERATING MODES NORMAL FLOW 1. Flowreversal valve is in ÒNORMAL FLOWÓ 2. Water is taken off the bottom of the pool and from the skimmers 3. Water is returned to the top of the pool via return lines 4. 2-3 foot area around the main drain appears clean all the time 5.
Page 49: Basic Plumbing Diagram [Without Flowreversal Valves]
BASIC PLUMBING DIAGRAM Without Flowreversalª Valves FILTER PCS-1 ON PCS1 BYPASS PCS-1 OFF Check Pool Water Valve Temp Sensor PUMP INTAKE Chemical Dispenser STRAINER SKIMMER MAIN RETURN SUCTION LINE DRAIN LINES Page S3-15 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 50: Plumbing Diagram [Flowreversal With Bypass Loop]
PLUMBING DIAGRAM With Flowreversalª Valves And Temporary ÒBYPASS LOOPÓ INLET FILTER PCS-1 ON BYPASS OUTLET PCS-1 OFF Temp Bypass Loop Auto Check draindown Valve Pool Water kit [loop] Temp Sensor PUMP INTAKE Chemical Dispenser STRAINER FLOWREVERSAL ª SUCTION VALVE PROPORTIONER VALVE Valve shown in Reverse Flow SKIMMER SUCTION &...
Page 51: Plumbing Diagram [Flowreversal Showing Normal Flow]
PLUMBING DIAGRAM With Flowreversalª Valves Showing Normal Flow FILTER PCS-1 ON PCS1 BYPASS PCS-1 OFF Check Pool Water Valve Temp Sensor PUMP INTAKE Chemical Dispenser STRAINER FLOWREVERSAL ª SUCTION VALVE PROPORTIONER VALVE SKIMMER SUCTION LINE DRAIN RETURN (BOTTOM) (TOP) SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 52: Plumbing Diagram [Flowreversal Showing Reverse Flow]
PLUMBING DIAGRAM With Flowreversalª Valves Showing Reverse Flow FILTER PCS-1 ON PCS1 BYPASS PCS-1 OFF Check Pool Water Valve Temp Sensor PUMP INTAKE Chemical Dispenser STRAINER FLOWREVERSAL ª SUCTION VALVE PROPORTIONER VALVE SKIMMER SUCTION LINE DRAIN RETURN (BOTTOM) (TOP) SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 53: Equipment Pad Configuration
Equipment Pad Configuration 1989 Photos Courtesy Of Max Fisher Pools, Orange Park, Florida SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION Page S3-19...
Page 54 New Pool Installaton Includes PCS1 Plumbing Features PCS1 Heat Exchanger (In Attic) 15 Filter Backwash Valve Automatic Temperature Controller 16 Backwash Drain Line Timer for min runtime of pump 17 PCS1 Inlet Line Automatic Pool Vacuum 18 PCS1 Outlet Line...
Page 55: Bypass Valve
Bypass Valve TOP VIEW OF ASSEMBLED COMPOOL VOR24 & BYPASS VALVE FOR PCS1 NORMAL FLOW INPUT TO PCS1 SOLAR OFF FLOW SOLAR ON FLOW VOR-24 #1 Compool Handle VOR ROTATES CW TO OFF CCW TO ON REVERSE PLUG IF VALVE IS STAGED...
Page 56 Whatever method is used, it is necessary to mount the PCS1 so that the air can be drawn off of the interior of the roof and through the PCS1 heat exchange coil. Any mounting other than horizontal and inside the attic may require a condensate drain provision.
Page 57: Attic Process
It is possible that it can be enlarged slightly to accommodate the PCS1. A rough opening of 21Ó x 31Ó will allow the PCS1 to go through - on its side - if sufficient height is inside the attic. Page S3-23...
Page 58 Do all PVC cementing outside of the attic in areas with adequate ventilation! J. Ensure the pump is off and electrical power is disconnected. 1. drain support system 2. cut off bypass loop and prepare pvc pipes going to PCS1 for extension Page S3-24 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 59 If manually lifting, the bulk of the unit along with the sharp fins can pose a significant danger. Especially if the PCS1 is dropped or loss of control is experienced. This can result in a back or other injury. The larger the access opening, the easier the unit can be man- handled.
Page 60 1. will water be routed correctly when pump is energized? 3. plug PCS1 into outlet and observe that fan turns on. NOTE: a properly wired solar controller will turn the PCS1 on when ON [manual override] is selected and off when the controller is turned AUTO OFF.
Page 61 This is a general attic process to follow when a small access opening is expanded. You, as the installer, are responsible for the safe application and installation of the PCS1. Poor workmanship inside the attic can lead to a mess. Page S3-27 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 62: Attic Notes
1. The PCS1 can be located over adjoining garages as a further leak protection measure. 2. When the PCS1 is located on one end of the attic, air flow can be extended by using large flexible duct work attached to the PCS1. This would require a metal plenum to be fashioned and attached to the PCS1.
Page 63 8. Lay down an extra piece of plywood from the shipping crate directly in front of or behind the PCS1 as a service platform. In this manner, someone who has to service the unit will not have to dangle their legs between attic joists.
Page 64 20. If a radiant heat barrier has been installed on the ceiling area, it can be left as is since it does not affect the operation of the PCS1. NOTE: radiant barriers work to keep the attic heat from radiating into the home. The PCS1 solves this problem by taking the heat and placing it into the swimming pool.
Page 65: Attic Installation Photos
Attic Installation Photos SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION Page S3-31...
Page 66 Attic Installation Photos SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION Page S3-32...
Page 67: Enhancing Heat Transfer (A)
Place the flexible duct adjacent to the PCS1Õs heat transfer coil 1-2 inches from the fins. This allows ÒdistantÓ air to be more easily drawn across the heat transfer coil. Centering the flex duct on the coilÕs surface also allows ÒlocalÓ...
Page 68: Electrical Wiring Notes
3. The attic temperature sensor is connected in series with the white internal float leads located on the right side of the PCS1 by the electrical clamp. The internal float is a normally closed switch which opens if the water in the base pan rises to 3/8Ó.
Page 69 Also, a timer set to operate both the pump and the PCS1 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. can achieve a SEMI- AUTOMATIC operation of the system without using the LX220.
Page 70 19. Some pumps may be wired to run off 110 vac. The pump is usually the source of power for the LX220 and PCS1. Check first to see if the pump is capable of running off of 220 vac. Most pumps can be simply ÒswitchedÓ at a rear panel to run off 110 or 220 vac.
Page 71: Electrical Wiring Diagram
ELECTRICAL WIRING DIAGRAM LX220 Controller Power Panel POOL WATER SENSOR ATTIC TEMP ¥ ¥ Ground SENSOR PCS1 Float ¥ ¥ ¥ ¥ Line 2 220V LEVITON #5821 Black ¥ ¥ ¥ Or Equivalent Line 1 220 VAC 1.8 AMPS ¥...
Page 72: Internal Float Wiring
[AS SHOWN ABOVE]. The float is a closed circuit switch. If excess water should ever occur inside the PCS1, the float rises and the switch opens. In AUTO mode, the LX220 interprets this open circuit condition as a cold attic and shuts the bypass valve off. The LX220 ÒSolar Sensor Service ReqÕdÓ...
Page 73 POLARIS POOL VAC Alternate Wiring Diagram (A) Power Panel Filter Pump 110 vac ground 220V 110 vac Polaris Booster Pump Black PCS1 Black Motor Power Relay LX220/2Y CONTROLLER Page S3-39 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 74 110 vac was taken from each manual switch for use in the LX220 as 220 vac for the PCS1. The LX220 itself could have been wired to operate from either 110 vac or 220 vac. The PCS1 requires 220 vac at 1.8 amperes.
Page 75 POOL PUMP ON TIMER Alternative Wiring Diagram (B) LX220 Controller Power Panel POOL WATER SENSOR ATTIC TEMP ¥ ¥ Ground SENSOR PCS1 Float ¥ ¥ 220V LEVITON #5821 Black ¥ ¥ ¥ Or Equivalent 220 VAC 1.8 AMPS ¥ Black...
Page 76 The timer width of 12 hours can be adjusted downward by observing either the PCS1 fan or the LX220Õs SOLAR ON light to determine when it turns on and off. After observing solar on and off times, simply adjust the timer to operate during your local solar collection process time.
Page 77 PUMP + PCS1 ON TIMER Alternative Wiring Diagram (C) Power Panel TIMER Ground ¥ ¥ 220V LEVITON #5821 ¥ ¥ ¥ Or Equivalent 220 VAC 1.8 AMPS ¥ ¥ ¥ Set timer from 11a.m. - 7 p.m. PCS1 Power ¥...
Page 78 PCS1 [via the second set of power contacts]. SEMI-AUTOMATIC OPERATION Both the pump and the PCS1 operate off of the same timer. The timer is set to operate from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. on sunny days. This covers part of the time that the solar collection process occurs.
Page 79 STEP THREE: AUTOMATING The PCS1 With CompoolÕs LX220 Solar Controller Page S3-45 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 80: Lx220 Installation Process
The problem with this is that the PCS1 is capable of cooling down a warm pool instead of heating it up. It will accomplish this if the attic is cooler than the pool water. Using a manual setup will always leave you guessing as to what is really happening.
Page 81 4 minutes of solar startup. It prevents air bubbles from entering and damaging the booster pump. 5. Connect the output of the relay to the PCS1 using one set of contacts. NOTE: This assumes that the wiring of the pumpÕs power will be slaved to the LX220 controller.
Page 82: Lx220 Operating Instructions
LX220 OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS Set the thermostat to a relative position. We suggest you set it at maximum until the pool starts to get too warm. This will keep the solar heating process going at maximum. 2. As the pool gets warmer, you can start to lower the thermostat until you find the setting you like best.
Page 83 Could also be a loose screw at the SOL terminals on the LX220 electronics board. Also turns on if the internal float in the PCS1 activates to shut the system down because of a leak detection. Could also turn on if the leak detection float inside the PCS1 is defective [opened].
Page 84 Sensor Pool Water Sensor PMP Socket Plug the PCS1 Power Relay installed at the bottom of the high voltage compartment into this socket. [See next page]. SWP Socket Plug the optional sweep [pool cleaner] pump relay into this socket. VLV Socket Plug the bypass valve operator into this socket.
Page 85 Grounding Bar Green Transformer Power Wires (4) PCS1 POWER Relay plugs into PMP socket on the Red Wires Circuit Board OPTIONAL Pool Cleaner Relay Black Wires High Voltage Compartment PCS1 POWER RELAY Grounding Bar Page S3-51 SECTION 3 - INSTALLATION...
Page 86: Controller Notes
6K ohms [6000 ohms across the sensorÕs two leads]. 6. If the Òsolar sensor service reqdÓ light is onÑthis could also mean that the float inside the PCS1 has detected a condition of excess water in the base pan. Page S3-52...
Page 87 PCS1 Auto+ System ATTIC TEMP SENSOR POWER FOR PCS1 LX220 CONTROL FILTER PCS1 ON BYPASS PCS1 HEATER PCS1 OFF POOL TEMP Check SENSOR Valve PUMP POWER PUMP MOTOR INTAKE FLOWREVERSAL (DOTTED ARROW) Chemical Dispenser STRAINER 220VAC FLOWREVERSAL ª SUCTION VALVE PROPORTIONER VALVE Note: Flowreversal valve is shown in reverse flow position.
Page 88 SECTION FOUR SERVICE Page S4-1 SECTION 4 - SERVICE...
Page 89: Section 4: Service S4-1
2. Any time service is performed inside the PCS1, disconnect power first. 3. Any time the front grille or a side panel is off the PCS1, inspect to ensure proper operation of the float. This is indicated by the float being free to move. If the float switch was defective [open], the automatic mode of the LX220 would not work.
Page 90: Spring Startup
100% on the motorÕs shaft. The fanÕs hub should not protrude past the end of the motorÕs shaft. 3. Check the PVC unions on the PCS1 inlet and outlet. They should be tight. Do not over tighten as they could crack.
Page 91: Winterization
Repeat this process until no water drains from the PCS1. 6. Pour 1 quart to 1/2 gallon of RV [recreational vehicle] non toxic antifreeze into the bottom of the PCS1.
Page 92 WINTERIZATION Bypass Valve Consideration In the process of winterization, air is blown through all of the pipes to eliminate water inside of the pipes [and all valves]. The bypass valve should be exercised in both directions a few times to eliminate all of the water within the valve. This can be accomplished using the manual on/off function of the LX220 or by manually turning the valve in both positions.
Page 93: Freeze Warnings
The standard operating procedure in such an instance is to keep the poolÕs filtration pump running during this brief period of freezing temperatures. This also pertains to the PCS1. You should keep water running through the PCS1 during this period of time.
Page 94: Unattended Pools
Equipment you trust and is capable of maintaining your poolÕs water chemistry while you are away. WE RECOMMEND: That the PCS1 be turned off when the pool will be left unattended for extended periods of time. This can be accomplished by turning the LX220 controller to the ÒOFFÓ...
Page 95: Troubleshooting Guide
PCS1 FAN does not turn 1. Thermostat is set too low on LX220. Turn to maximum. on. Note: Solar On light is 2. PCS1 is unplugged at attic outlet or power is missing. On. Sensor Service Required 3. Power is incorrectly wired at LX220.
Page 96 6. LX220 is not in ÒAutomaticÓ mode. 7. LX220 Solar Controller does not supply power to PCS1. 8. PCS1 water flow and fan power are out of sync with each other. 9. Defective temperature sensor(s) or Open leak detection float.
Page 97 Place LX220 in AUTO. This combination maximizes solar collection and minimizes the energy required to accomplish it. 4. Problem is not the PCS1. It only draws 1.8 amps maximum and its energy use is easily determined within a range of $3.00 minimum to $20.00 Maximum per month depending upon local electricity rates.
Page 98: Section 5: Reference S5
SECTION FIVE REFERENCE DATA Note: Each part of this reference section is identified separately by its contents. For example: Common Questions are identified as pages ÒCommon Questions Page 1 of 10Ó, etc. SECTION 5 - REFERENCE DATA...
Page 99: Common Questions
COMMON QUESTIONS Page 1 of 10 Common Questions...
Page 100 [drinkable]. To the extent the pool's water is not like this, it will shorten the life of all of the pool's support equipment in addition to shortening the life expectancy of the PCS1. The PCS1 has extended life characteristics when compared to heat pumps or fossil fuel heaters.
Page 101 220 vac is required. Full load amperage is 1.8 amps. A separate, 15 amp circuit, with a double pole safety cutoff switch and outlet by the PCS1 is recommended. The PCS1 must be wired in accordance with local, state, & national electrical codes.
Page 102 Plumbing must be installed in accordance with state and local codes and good trade practices. Experience has shown that a continuous length of flex pvc to and from the PCS1 in the attic and extending outside of the eaves where it is connected to rigid pvc pipe is acceptable. Rigid pvc pipe is used from this point throughout the rest of the support system.
Page 103 PCS1 is exposed to is 20 PSI or less. It is therefore, highly unlikely, that any leaks could occur in the PCS1 as a result of pressure. Again the PCS1 is factory tested at 350 PSI under water with dry nitrogen and operates at 20 PSI or less.
Page 104 Further protection can be achieved by mounting a sheet metal plenum on the coil end of the PCS1 and connecting the other end of the plenum to flexible duct. In this scenario, the PCS1 would be installed over the garage area and draw air from the main attic. To be effective, it must have a clear path to draw and return the hot attic air.
Page 105 20. Can the PCS1 heat spas? Yes! The PCS1 has been used to heat water up to 105° F. SolarAttic, Inc. expects to have a separate spa version on the market sometime in the future. However, in the meantime, another opportunity avails itself. That is the sharing of the heat from the attic with both the pool and a spa.
Page 106 (450 sq ft) and large roof areas. Grey, white, and smooth white may be marginal on a large pool with an extremely small attic to draw from. The above factors can be interpreted as follows: The PCS1 will perform nominally, or 1.00, with a Brown roof.
Page 107 PCS1 up into the attic. Be sure to center the lift and use straps under the unit.
Page 108 The additional energy savings from reduced or eliminated air conditioning costs. ¥ The availability of electricity to run the PCS1 as opposed to natural gas and other fuels. ¥ The practicality of using attic heat to solve your swimming pool heat needs.
Page 109 DICTIONARY TERMS Page 1 of 4 Dictionary of Terms...
Page 110: Dictionary Of Terms
Air to Liquid A heat transfer term referring to the transfer of heat from air to liquid or vice versa. A valve used to route water up to the PCS1 when heat is Bypass Valve available in the attic. British Thermal Unit. The quantity of heat required to raise one pound of water one degree Fahrenheit.
Page 111 A factor used in BTU calculations. A product that takes heat from one area and transfers it to Heat Exchanger another area. The PCS1 transfers heat from the attic to the swimming pool. Heat Pump A method used to heat swimming pool's by using a reverse refrigeration cycle.
Page 112 Temperature Controller An electronic device used to automate the bypass valve so that water is automatically routed up to the PCS1 in the attic when heat is available. Therm One Therm equals 100,000 BTUs.
Page 113 SITE SURVEY Page 1 of 4 Site Survey...
Page 114 SITE SURVEY Use the “SITE SURVEY” form to help define the length of pipe and other materials you will need for the installation of the PCS1. You can also use the form when communicating with the factory. Send the completed form in along with photos of the pool’s support system and attic access area along with your questions.
Page 115 House to attic access: (1 way)______ feet From attic access to PCS1: (1 way)______ feet Vertical distance from the pump to the PCS1 inlet _________feet (Head) Additional pressure caused from the vertical run:________PSI (Head/2.31) Describe attic access method:___________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Describe materials required for access:_________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________ Describe attic insulation &...
Page 116 Sketch Form Page 4 of 4 Site Survey...

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