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Question: How to operate a solar water heating system?

(Posted by: SHAWNA C on 2006-08-18 21:41:43)

I just moved into a house and i have know idea how to get the hot water to work on this. it has two valves that say solar only, solar and back up only and back up only. it did start to get warm but went away after about 10min. also i have hardley any water pressue when turning on the hot water side of the faucet.

Posted by: aries4272 on 2006-08-22, 19:55:38

Solar water heating systems are outdated,in fact I remove them from peoples roofs all the time(im a builder),but sometimes they need to be drained and re-filled to get the air out of the lines,especially if it hasnt been used for awhile,good luck...

Posted by: davewilliams1865 on 2006-08-18, 21:58:10

This is a tough one with out seeing it it could be so many things best bet would be calla plumber who installs and SERVICES those otherwise you will get someone who will spend hours trying to figure it out, but sounds like something is off that should be on or two things are on at the same timebut only one should be its tough to answer without looking at the piping set up

Posted by: Tom-SJ on 2006-08-18, 22:37:39

I agree with davewilliams. A solar water system installer or plumber can figure it out in short order. My dad's DIY system is tied into his gas-fired water heating system, with a 2 valves which let the solar heater act as a pre-heater for his water system. The valves are open in the spring but closed in the winter. There is a drain plug on the roof mounted panels to drain the system in the winter, and an automatic air bleed valve at the highest point for the plumbing on the roof. Finally there is a system controller with a differential temperature sensor (thermostat) inputs to turn on and off a low HP recirculating water pump as needed. Most solar water systems are similar in design. Check the source for some typical designs.