Precautions for maintaining solar water tanks in residences

Daily inspection

Visual inspection

Regularly check the outer shell of the water tank for any deformation, cracks or rust. If the outer shell of the water tank is found to be damaged, it may affect the insulation performance and structural strength of the water tank, resulting in heat loss or water leakage of the water tank. For instance, before the rainy season arrives, carefully inspect the outer shell of the water tank to prevent rainwater from seeping into the interior of the tank and causing damage to the internal components.

Check whether there is any loosening or leakage at the interfaces of the inlet and outlet pipes of the water tank. Loose or leaking interfaces not only waste water resources but also may cause the ground around the water tank to be slippery, posing a safety hazard. An appearance inspection can be conducted once a month to promptly identify and address potential issues.

Water level inspection

Observe whether the water level in the water tank is normal. Low water level may affect the normal use of solar water heaters and prevent them from providing sufficient hot water. If the water level is too high, it may cause excessive pressure during the heating process, leading to damage to the water tank. The water level can be checked through the water level observation window on the water tank or the water level indicator. If abnormal water level is found, it is necessary to check whether the water inlet valve is working properly and whether there is any blockage or leakage.

Cleaning and maintenance

Cleaning inside the water tank

Clean the interior of the water tank at regular intervals (it is recommended to do so every 1-2 years). After long-term use, water tanks will accumulate scale, impurities and other substances inside, which will affect water quality and heating efficiency. When cleaning, first close the water inlet valve and the power supply (if it is a solar water tank with electric auxiliary heating), and drain the water in the 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.

Note that during the cleaning process, do not use sharp tools to scrape the inner wall of the water tank to avoid damaging the anti-corrosion layer of the water tank.

Vacuum tube cleaning

If the solar water tank collects heat through vacuum tubes, the surface of the vacuum tubes should be cleaned regularly. Dust and dirt on the surface of vacuum tubes will reduce the absorption rate of sunlight and affect the heating effect. When cleaning, you can gently wipe the surface of the vacuum tube with a soft damp cloth in the morning or afternoon on a sunny day. Avoid cleaning during the intense midday sun to prevent the vacuum tube from overheating, scalding the skin or causing the cleaning cloth to dry too quickly, making it difficult to clean thoroughly.

Thermal insulation maintenance

Insulation layer inspection

Check whether the insulation layer of the water tank is damaged or fallen off. The function of the insulation layer is to reduce the loss of heat inside the water tank. If the insulation layer is damaged, it will lead to a decline in the insulation performance of the water tank and increase energy consumption. 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.

If any damage to the insulation layer is found, it is necessary to contact professionals in time for repair or replacement.

Environmental impact

Pay attention to the ambient temperature and ventilation around the water tank. Avoid installing the water tank in a place with poor ventilation or too low a temperature to prevent affecting its insulation effect. For instance, do not install the water tank in a closed balcony or attic. Ensure there is sufficient space around the water tank to facilitate air circulation.

Safety maintenance

Lightning protection inspection

Solar water tanks 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 water tank 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.

Electrical safety

If the solar water tank is equipped with an electric auxiliary heating function, it is necessary to regularly check whether the electrical circuits are aged or damaged, and whether the plugs and sockets are loose or overheated. Check whether the electric heating element is working properly and whether there is any leakage of electricity. The insulation performance of electrical circuits can be tested by using tools such as insulation resistance testers. When using electric auxiliary heating, make sure there is sufficient water in the water tank to prevent dry burning from damaging the electric heating elements.

Seasonal maintenance

Summer maintenance

In summer, the sun is intense and the water temperature in the water tank is relatively high. It is necessary to be careful to prevent the pressure inside the water tank from being too high. You can check whether the safety valve of the water tank is working properly. The function of the safety valve is to automatically release pressure when the pressure inside the water tank is too high, ensuring the safety of the water tank. At the same time, to prevent the water tank from remaining at a high temperature for a long time, you can appropriately increase the water consumption of the water tank and lower the water temperature.

Winter maintenance

In cold regions, anti-freezing measures should be taken in winter. If there is water in the water tank, make sure the water tank has good insulation performance to prevent the water inside from freezing. Insulation materials such as foam boards and cotton quilts can be wrapped around the water tank. If the solar water heater is not used for a long time, the water in the water tank should be drained to prevent the water tank and water pipes from cracking due to freezing.