Filling a solar system (referring to a solar thermal system, not the astronomical one) involves using a filling pump to introduce fluid until all air is purged from the system and the desired pressure is achieved.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Connect the Filling Pump: Attach the filling pump to the designated fill valve on the solar thermal system.
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Purge Air from the Pump: Operate the filling pump until no more air bubbles are visible in the liquid container of the pump. This ensures that you're only pumping fluid into the solar system.
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Vent the System: Vent the pump line and, if necessary, the solar circuit pump. This helps remove any trapped air in the lines and components of the system itself. Air pockets can significantly reduce the efficiency of a solar thermal system.
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Fill Until Desired Pressure: Open the filler valve and continue pumping fluid into the system until the desired pressure is reached. Refer to the solar system's specifications for the correct pressure.
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Shut Off Valves: Once the desired pressure is reached, shut off the filler valve connected to the system and then the filler valve on the pump itself.
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System Check: After filling, monitor the system for any leaks or pressure drops. This may require running the system for a short period.
Important Considerations:
- Fluid Type: Use the correct type of fluid specified for your solar thermal system. Typically, this is a specialized heat transfer fluid, often a glycol mixture. Using the wrong fluid can damage the system.
- Pressure: Adhere to the pressure specifications for your system. Over-pressurizing can damage components.
- Safety: Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and eye protection, when handling fluids.
- Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this task, it is best to consult with a qualified solar thermal system installer or technician.
