Solar circuit, Additional equipment, Closed circuit fluid – Rheem GAS BOOSTED SOLAR WATER HEATER User Manual
Page 36: Commissioning
COMMISSIONING
36
SOLAR CIRCUIT
It is necessary to commission and check the operation of the solar circuit. The commissioning
procedure includes:
• checking the circulation of closed circuit fluid through the solar circuit.
• checking the drain back function of the solar circuit.
• pressure testing the solar circuit to ensure there are no leaks.
• checking the level of the closed circuit fluid and adjusting if required.
The water heater is supplied charged with closed circuit fluid. The level of the closed circuit fluid only
needs to be checked if:
• a third solar collector is installed.
• there is a significant leak in the solar pipe work and closed circuit fluid has been discharged.
• the maximum recommended solar pipe length is exceeded.
• a second solar pump is installed if the maximum height from the base of the solar storage tank to
the top of the solar collectors exceeds 9 m (refer to
“Pipe Lengths”
on page 27).
Additional Equipment
Additional equipment will be required for the commissioning and checking of the solar circuit. This
includes checking the closed circuit fluid level and conducting a drain back test. The following
equipment is required:
• a 1500 mm long x 12 mm (½”) diameter clear hose (closed circuit fluid level hose).
• one (1) ½” hose clamp.
• a suitable plug for one end of the hose.
• suitable tape to affix the hose to the side of the solar storage tank.
• a torch to illuminate the working area under the heat exchanger and storage tank cylinder.
Closed Circuit Fluid
The water heater is supplied charged with closed circuit fluid and it is not necessary to add further
closed circuit fluid to the system. If the closed circuit fluid has been completely drained or discharged
from the solar circuit and needs to be replaced, then the amount to be added is:
• 5 litres of Hartgard concentrate, mixed with
• 11 litres of water.
It is necessary to undertake the solar circuit commissioning procedure if the closed circuit fluid has
been replaced.
The closed circuit fluid contains food grade additives (rust inhibitor, anti-freeze agent, colour) and is
harmless to the environment. However, it is good practice to recover any excess closed circuit fluid and
remove from site.