Tips for Installing Your Solar Storage Tank
The solar storage tank is probably the most critical component of any solar hot water system. Thus, it should be protected from rain and prolonged freezing temperatures in case of extended power failures. The preferred location is within the insulated area of a building, such as in a garage or basement, or adjacent shed.
The tank must be installed on a floor or surface substantial enough to carry the full weight of the tank plus water. Table 2.1 shows approximate filled weights of five common tanks. Drain pans must be used where required by codes. Do not install the tank in an area where future removal is difficult.
Table 2.1 Approximate Weight of Full Tanks
|
Tank Size |
Approx. Full Wt. |
Water Treatment |
|
DBM (12 gal) |
170 lbs. |
8 oz. |
|
80 gallons |
950 lbs. |
1 qt |
|
130 gallons |
1500 lbs. |
0.5 gal |
|
250 gallons |
2700 lbs. |
1.0 gal |
|
400 gallons |
4200 lbs. |
1.5 gal |
|
500 gallons |
5300 lbs. |
2.0 gal |
(For weights and dimensions of larger solar storage tanks, click here and look to the right-hand column.)
Extra fittings are not needed and usually cause extra expense and difficulty insulating the lines. Do not use any air vents or valves not specifically called out.
It is very important to leak test and flush the lines before final connection to the solar storage tank. Connecting a permanent fill line to the tank in is not recommended and may violate codes. The tank is easily filled and maintained with the boiler drain valve at the bottom of the tank.
Electrical power requirements for the system are based on the number of options installed on the solar storage tank. On residential systems, the low power consumption of each option means that a 15 to 20 amp, 110 VAC circuit will be adequate for all standard systems. A separate electrical circuit and breaker are recommended to keep other circuits from affecting the heating system.
Do not apply power to the tank until all plumbing and control wiring is complete and the tank has been filled with water.
After all piping has been completed, flushed, and leak tested, and the wiring finished, the system startup procedure can begin. Make sure the pressurized domestic hot water line and standard water heater are purged and filled with water.
Fill the solar storage tank with water using the boiler drain valve under the collector pump(s). See Figure 2.1. A hose with female connections on both ends is required, such as a washing machine hose. First add the WT-1 water treatment in the ratio of 1 gallon WT-1 to 250 gallons of water as shown in table 2.1. Fill the tank until the water level is at the bottom of the site glass on the tank. This allows space in the tank for purging space heating or boiler circuits without overflowing the tank. For domestic hot water only systems, the tank may be filled to the top of the site gauge.
Figure 2.1 – Solar Storage Tank Fill Connections
If you have any questions or thoughts regarding the installation of your solar storage tank, please don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section below!
Dr. Ben
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