If you need a solar system or solar hot water repair, there are some things you can do to have the best chance of success. Here are some tips and tools for those who want to know how to get started. However, it is safer to hire a professional solar electrician.
Before even getting your hands dirty, it is essential to understand what makes up a sound installation.
There are three key components:
1. The array or collectors
These are the parts of your system that will be exposed to the sun’s rays and converted into heat. Therefore, it is essential to make sure you have enough surface area to collect as much sunlight as possible.
2. The storage tank
This is where the heat will be stored until it can be used in your home. Again, a well-insulated and sealed tank will help reduce energy loss in this step, so make sure you have one that does both these things very well.
3. The piping
This will carry the heated water from the collectors to the storage tank and back again. Therefore, it is vital that your piping be as leak-proof as possible to reduce energy loss.
Solar hot water repair is not the same as fixing any other type of heater. If you are familiar with plumbing, then this will be pretty easy to understand and fix if it breaks. However, since there are so many different types of solar equipment out there, sometimes even people who have experience in these things find themselves unsure what they need or where to get it.
Once you have a good understanding of these basics, it’s time for the repair itself.
If you’re looking for ways to troubleshoot and fix common issues, here are some tips:
- If your system isn’t heating up properly, one of the first things to check is the orientation of your collectors. They should be facing south if you’re in the northern hemisphere and north in the southern hemisphere. Make sure they’re also at a 30-45 degree angle from horizontal.
- If your system seems like it is heating up too quickly, you may need to insulate the piping and storage tank better. This can help slow down heat loss in these areas and increase efficiency overall.
- If your panels seem dirty, try power washing them with a hose and some dish soap (like Dawn). Be very careful not to damage the panels in this process.
- If you’re having problems with leaks, it is important to check all of your piping and fittings for signs of wear and tear. You may need to replace them if they are starting to show significant age or deterioration.
- If you’re not sure what is wrong, it may be a good idea to call in a professional. They will have the expertise and knowledge to help diagnose and fix your system’s problems.
Finally, always remember safety first! Ensure you have a safe work area, and take precautions against potential hazards like electrocution or fire.
With these tips in mind, you should be able to troubleshoot and fix the most common solar system and solar hot water problems.
