Key points for maintaining residential solar energy in summer

Maintenance of solar thermal collection systems

Collector cleaning

In summer, with abundant sunlight, the surface of the collector is prone to accumulate dust, bird droppings, leaves and other dirt. These dirt can block the sunlight and reduce the heat collection efficiency. It is recommended to clean the surface of the collector at least once a month. When cleaning, choose to do it in the early morning or evening when the sunlight is weaker, and avoid operating during the high-temperature period at noon to prevent burns. You can use a soft damp cloth or sponge, dip it in clean water and gently wipe the surface of the collector. For stubborn stains, you can use a neutral cleaner, but be careful not to corrode the surface of the collector.

If there is snow or ice on the surface of the collector (which may also occur in summer in some high-latitude or high-altitude areas), it should be cleared in time to prevent the snow or ice from causing pressure damage to the collector, and at the same time ensure that sunlight can reach the collector normally.

Check the connection of the collector

Check whether the connecting pipes between the collectors are loose or leaking. In summer, with high temperatures, pipes may become loose due to thermal expansion and contraction. If leakage is found at the connection, the connecting parts should be tightened in time or the sealing gasket replaced. Meanwhile, check whether the connection between the collector and the water tank is firm to ensure that hot water can flow smoothly into the water tank.

Adjust the collector Angle (if necessary)

Although the optimal collector Angle for residential solar systems has been determined based on local latitude and other factors during installation, in summer, if one wants to further enhance the heat collection efficiency, minor adjustments can be made according to the actual situation. For instance, in the Northern Hemisphere, when the solar altitude Angle is relatively large in summer, the inclination Angle of the collector can be appropriately reduced to make it closer to being perpendicular to the direction of sunlight. However, Angle adjustment requires professional operation to ensure that the adjusted collector can operate stably.

Water tank maintenance

Water level inspection and adjustment

In summer, water consumption is relatively high. It is necessary to regularly check the water level in the water tank to ensure there is sufficient water inside. If the water level is too low, it will affect the normal use of the solar water heater and fail to provide sufficient hot water. The water level can be checked through the water level observation window on the water tank or the water level indicator. If the water level is found to be insufficient, the water inlet valve should be opened in time to replenish water. At the same time, the water level of the water tank should be adjusted reasonably according to the household water usage habits and weather conditions to avoid excessive water in the tank causing it to overflow.

Insulation inspection of the water tank

Check whether the insulation layer of the water tank is damaged or fallen off. Although the temperature is relatively high in summer, the insulation performance of the water tank is still very important. It can reduce the loss of heat inside the water tank and improve energy utilization efficiency. If any problem with the insulation layer is found, it is necessary to contact professionals in time for repair or replacement. You can touch the outer shell of the water tank with your hand to feel the temperature change. If you find that the temperature of some parts of the water tank outer shell is significantly higher than that of others, it may be that there is a problem with the insulation layer.

Descaling of water tanks

In summer, the water temperature in the water tank is relatively high, which can easily accelerate the formation of scale. Scale will adhere to the inner walls of the water tank and the heating elements (if there is electric auxiliary heating), affecting the heating efficiency and service life of the water tank. It is recommended that the water tank be descaled once every 1 to 2 years. When descaling, first close the water inlet valve and the power supply (if it is an electrically assisted heating water tank), and drain the water in the water tank. Then, use a dedicated water tank cleaner or acidic substances such as white vinegar to add to the water tank as per the instructions. After soaking for a period of time, rinse it clean with clear water.

Pipeline maintenance

Pipeline insulation inspection

Check whether the insulation layer of the pipes in the solar water heating system is intact. Although there is no need to worry about pipes freezing and cracking in summer as much as in winter, good insulation can reduce heat loss during the transportation of hot water. If any damage to the insulation layer of the pipeline is found, it should be repaired in time. It can be wrapped with insulation tape or insulation sleeves.

Pipeline leak prevention inspection

Regularly check whether there is any leakage at the pipe connections, valves and other parts. In summer, when the temperature is high, the water pressure inside the pipes may rise, which can easily lead to leakage problems. If leakage is found, the corresponding valve should be closed in time and the sealing parts should be repaired or replaced. At the same time, check if there are any signs of aging or deformation in the pipes. If necessary, replace the pipes in a timely manner.

Pipe sun protection

For pipes exposed to sunlight, sun protection measures should be taken to prevent them from aging and getting damaged due to prolonged exposure to the sun. The pipes can be protected by using sun-protective sleeves or applying sun-protective paint, etc.

Electrical system maintenance (such as electric auxiliary heating)

Inspection of electrical circuits

Check whether the electrical circuits of the solar water heating system are aged or damaged. In summer, with high temperatures, electrical circuits are prone to accelerated aging due to overheating. The insulation performance of electrical circuits can be tested with tools such as insulation resistance testers. If a decline in insulation performance is found, the electrical circuits should be replaced in a timely manner. At the same time, check whether the plugs and sockets are loose or overheated to ensure the safety and reliability of the electrical connection.

Inspection of electric heating elements

If the solar water tank is equipped with an electric auxiliary heating function, it is necessary to regularly check whether the electric heating elements are working properly. It can be judged whether it is normal by observing the indicator light of the electric heating or using a multimeter to measure the resistance value of the electric heating element. If the electric heating element is found to be damaged, it should be replaced in time to avoid affecting the normal use of the water heater.

Inspection of leakage protection devices

Check whether the leakage protection device of the solar water heating system is working properly. The leakage protection device can promptly cut off the power supply when leakage occurs, ensuring personal safety. The leakage protection device can be tested once a month. Press the test button and observe whether the leakage protection device can trip normally. If the leakage protection device malfunctions, it should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner.

Lightning protection and wind protection maintenance

Lightning protection inspection

Solar water heaters are usually installed on high places such as rooftops and are prone to lightning strikes. It is necessary to regularly check whether the lightning protection device of the solar water heating system is in good condition and whether the grounding resistance meets the requirements. Professional lightning protection inspection institutions can be invited to conduct inspections every year to ensure the effectiveness of lightning protection devices. If any problem is found with the lightning protection device, it should be repaired or replaced in a timely manner.

Windbreak inspection

Strong winds may occur in summer. It is necessary to check whether the fixing devices of the solar water heating system are firm. Make sure that components such as the collector and water tank can withstand strong winds. If the fixing device is found to be loose, it should be reinforced in time. At the same time, check whether the protective facilities around the collector are in good condition to prevent strong winds from blowing debris onto the collector and causing damage.