Anti-freezing measures for residential solar energy systems

Pipeline anti-freezing

Pipe insulation

Before winter comes, all the pipes of the solar energy system, including water supply and drainage pipes, overflow pipes, etc., should be comprehensively insulated. Rubber and plastic insulation pipes or glass wool and other insulation materials can be used to tightly wrap the pipes. The thickness of the insulation material should be selected based on the lowest temperature in the local winter. Generally speaking, the lower the temperature, the thicker the insulation material. For instance, in the cold northern regions, the thickness of the insulation material can be selected as 3 to 5 centimeters.

For the joints, elbows and other parts of the pipeline, special attention should be paid to insulation. The thickness of the insulation material can be appropriately increased or special insulation joint sleeves can be used to ensure that these parts do not freeze due to rapid heat loss.

Drain the remaining water

If the solar energy system has a drainage function, the water in the pipes can be drained when the solar water heating is not used for a long time or when extreme cold weather is expected. The specific operation method is to close the water inlet valve of the solar energy system, open the hot water faucet and the drain valve, and let the water in the pipe flow out naturally until no water flows out.

For some pipes that cannot be completely drained, such as some vertical pipes, a drain valve can be installed at the lowest point of the pipe. Regularly inspect and drain the accumulated water to prevent it from freezing and expanding, which could damage the pipe.

Electric heating tape for frost protection

Installing electric heating tapes on pipes is a way to prevent freezing that converts electrical energy into thermal energy. According to the length and diameter of the pipe, select an electric heating tape of appropriate power and evenly wrap it around the pipe.

Electric heating tapes should be used in conjunction with thermostats, which can automatically control the start and stop of the electric heating tapes according to the ambient temperature. When the ambient temperature drops below the set value, the thermostat automatically connects to the power supply, and the electric heating tape starts to heat up, keeping the water temperature inside the pipeline above freezing point. When the ambient temperature rises, the thermostat automatically cuts off the power supply and the electric heating tape stops working, which not only saves energy but also effectively prevents the pipes from cracking due to freezing.

Water tank anti-freezing

Water tank insulation

Check whether the insulation layer of the water tank is intact. If there is any damage or aging, it should be repaired or replaced in time. The insulation layer of the water tank is generally made of polyurethane foam material, which has excellent insulation performance.

An additional layer of insulation cotton or aluminum foil reflective film can be wrapped around the outside of the water tank to further enhance the insulation effect. The thickness of the insulation cotton can be selected according to the actual situation, generally around 2 to 3 centimeters. The aluminum foil reflective film can reflect heat and reduce heat loss.

Water tank heating

If the solar water tank is equipped with an auxiliary heating device, such as an electric heating rod, when the temperature is low in winter, the auxiliary heating function can be turned on to keep the water temperature inside the tank within an appropriate range and prevent the water in the tank from freezing.

Set an appropriate heating temperature. Generally, the water temperature can be set between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius. This can not only prevent the water tank from cracking due to freezing but also avoid energy waste caused by excessive heating. At the same time, the working status of the auxiliary heating device should be regularly inspected to ensure its normal operation.

Solar panels are frost-proof

Cleaning and maintenance

In winter, snow and frost may accumulate on the surface of solar panels, affecting their efficiency in absorbing sunlight. It is necessary to clear the snow and frost on the surface of the solar panels in a timely manner. A soft broom or a dedicated solar panel cleaning tool can be used to gently sweep away the snow on the surface. Avoid using sharp or hard tools to prevent scratching the surface of the solar panels.

Regularly inspect the connection lines and junction boxes of the solar panels to ensure they are well sealed, preventing moisture from entering and causing short circuits or icing damage. If any damage or aging of the circuit is found, it should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner.

Installation Angle adjustment

According to the local winter solar altitude Angle, adjust the installation Angle of the solar panels appropriately to enable them to receive the maximum amount of sunlight. Generally speaking, in winter, the solar altitude Angle is relatively low. Appropriately increasing the tilt Angle of solar panels can enhance their light transmission efficiency, increase power generation, and also help raise the surface temperature of the solar panels, reducing the adhesion of snow and frost.