Alternate Energy Technologies EAGLESUN Instruction manual

INSTALLATION
OPERATION
MAINTENANCE
MANUAL
THERMOSIPHON
“FREE-FLOW”
Alternate Energy Technologies, LLC
PO Box 61326
Jacksonville, FL 32236
904-781-8305
1

Contents:
OWNERSINFORMATION 3
What is a Thermosiphon System? 3
What is a Close Coupled System? 3
What is an Open Loop System? 3
What is a Closed Loop System? 3
How does my system work? 3
SystemSchematicDrawing 4
What system do I have? 4
Ancillary Energy Support (AES) System 4
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 5
LocationSelection 5
Typical Assembly Diagram 5
Connection and Mounting Kits 6
SystemInstallation 6
Mounting Location 6
Mounting Methods 7
Mounting the Collector 8
Mounting the Thermosiphon Tank 8
PlumbingConnections 9
ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 9
Electrical Connection for Electric AES Systems 9
GAS (AES) INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS 9
COMMISSIONING 9
CustomerHandOver 9
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS 10
HowdoIoperatethesystem? 10
What should I do during holidays? 10
Why is there water discharge for the pressure valve? 10
What should I check before making a service call? 10
LowSolarEnergyInput 10
Solarcollectorshading 10
AES System not operating 10
Is there excessive water discharge for the Valves? 11
Are you using more hot water than you think? 11
MAINTENANCE 11
SystemMaintenance 11
Useful Technical Data 11
FluidQuality 11
System Parts Listing 11
Estimated Component Life 12
Hazards 12
Fluid Safety Labeling 12
WARRANTY 12
2

Owners Information
As the owner of a EAGLESUN™ solar water heater there are some questions you may have about the system and
how it operates. Your solar water heater model is commonly referred to as a roof mounted, open loop, close coupled,
Thermosiphon system and is one of the most efficient solar water heater types available worldwide.
What is a Thermosiphon System?
A Thermosiphon system is a system where the heated water in the solar collectors rises up into the storage tank by
natural Thermosiphon action. Thermosiphon action occurs when water which is heated in the collectors expands
becoming lighter allowing colder heavier water to fall by gravitational force to the bottom of the collector. The cold
water falling to the bottom of the collector pushes the hotter lighter water back up into the storage tank. This natural
action commonly known as Thermosiphon action occurs without any moving parts or auxiliary electrical energy input
to the system
What is a Close Coupled System?
A close coupled system is one where the household hot water storage tank and solar collectors are both mounted on
the roof. Typically the tank is above but in close proximity to the collectors. The tank and collectors are connected
together with ¾” copper tube, which is used to transfer heated water from the collectors to the storage tank.
What is an Open Loop System?
An Open Loop System is a system where the water used in the household (hot water) circulates through the solar
collector panels transferring solar energy into the storage tank. This system type is used in locations where the
ambient temperature never falls below freezing point (32°F) and where the water quality is good – less than 600 ppm
Total Dissolved Solids (TDS).
What is a Closed Loop System?
A Closed Loop System is a system where two water loops are contained within the solar water heater. The first loop
is the household water storage tank which stores the heated household water used within the household. The
second loop is the solar collector loop which is fully sealed and mechanically separated from the household water
loop by a heat exchanger system. The fluid within the solar collector loop is a mixture of household water and food
grade propylene glycol. This fluid mix transfers solar energy from the solar collectors to the heat exchanger system
and prevents damage to the solar collectors should the ambient temperature fall below freezing point. This system
type can be used in any climatic location and with any water quality considered suitable for human consumption
How does my system work?
The three main components of your solar water heater system are the potable water storage tank, the solar collector
(s) and Ancillary Energy Support (AES) System. The AES system can be either electric or gas operated dependant
on the model purchased.
The potable water storage tank is used to store the heated water ready for household use. It is constructed using high
quality stainless steel to provide long life and is insulated with a high density polyurethane material to ensure minimal
heat losses and maximized structural strength. The solar collectors contain a multi-tube copper water way system
welded to a solar absorber plate, the combination of which collects solar energy and transfers it to the fluid within the
collector loop. The absorber plate system is enclosed in an insulated metal casing covered with a high strength
tempered glass sheet that protects the absorber system from physical damage.
An electric Ancillary Energy Support (AES) system uses and electric element to heat part of the stored household
water on those occasions when there is reduced solar energy available. (e.g. cloudy days). The electric element is
thermostatically controlled so it only delivers the top up energy required then turns off automatically. A Gas AES
system uses a remotely mounted gas continuous flow water heater connected in series with the hot water supply line
to your house hot water pipe work. As the hot water from the solar storage tank passes through the gas heater its
temperature is automatically monitored. If the temperature is below 120°F the gas heater will add the degrees
required to deliver hot water of at least 120°F. If the water temperature is above 120°F the gas heater will not decide
not to ignite.
Under normal operating conditions the potable water within the storage tank is heated by the solar collectors. In an
Open Loop System where the household hot water is in the collector loop, cold water is pushed downwards, via the
long external pipe from the storage tank to the bottom of the solar collector. As the water is heated in the absorber by
the sun, it rises to the top of the collector then travels through the short external pipe into the storage tank.
3

System Schematic Drawing
What system do I have?
The model number of the system will provide this information.
The model number is broken into sections to describe the system which you have installed. For example
FF-50-26
The prefix letter(s) indicate the system type. e.g. FF-50-26
In the example, “FF” indicates that the system is a free flow (thermosiphon) type system. “D” would indicate a direct
type system and “I” an indirect type system.
The first numeric sequence indicates the storage volume of the solar storage tank. e.g. FF-50-26
In the example, 50 indicates a nominal tank volume of 50 gallons.
The last numeric sequence indicates the total nominal collector area. e.g. FF-50-26
In the example, 26 is the area (ft²) of an one AE-26 (4’ x 6.5’) solar collector.
Ancillary Energy Support (AES) System
Electricity and gas are the two options for the AES system. The most suitable AES system type used is made at the
time of purchase from the EAGLESUN™ dealer.
For electric AES systems, electricity supplies a secondary storage tank which is automatically controlled by an
internal thermostat and which will only allow the electric element to operate if the storage tank water temperature falls
below 120°F and will even then, only consume electricity until the water temperature is increased to 120°F then turns
off again.
For gas AES systems, there is no electric. Instead a continuous flow gas water heater is fitted adjacent the storage
tank and in series with the hot water supply from the storage tank and the household hot water pipe work system. As
the hot water from the solar storage tank passes through the gas heater its temperature is automatically monitored by
the gas heater. If the temperature is below 120°F the gas heater will add the additional degrees required to deliver
hot water of at least 120°F. If the water temperature is above 120°F the gas heater will not decide not ignite.
4

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Important Note:
Do not commence an installation until you have satisfied yourself that all Occupational Health and Safety
issues associated with working on and lifting components onto a roof have been addressed. All work
associated with the installation must comply with local authority regulations, where these installation
instructions and local regulations are in conflict, local regulations must prevail.
Mounting and Connection Kits
There are two parts kits supplied with your Thermosiphon system. A mounting kit containing four flush-mount,
mounting clips with stainless steel locking bolts and a connection kit containing the parts required to plumb the
system. The mounting kit does not include the fasteners required to secure the system to the roof structure. With the
exception of the copper tube the connection kit contains all of the plumbing components required to connect the solar
collector to the roof mounted, water heater storage tank.
Typical Assembly Diagram
5

THERMOSIPHON SYSTEM · COMPONENT LEGEND
ITEM DESCRIPTION QTY
A Solar Collector 1
B Flat Mount Clip w/Locking Bolt 4
C Thermosiphon Tank 1
D Tank Mounting Bracket 1
E Freeze Protection Valve 1
F T&P Relief Valve, Long Stem 1
G 3/4” Ball Valve • FIP x FIP 1
H 3/4" X 2" Red Brass Nipple 3
I 3/4” Adapter • MIP x Hose w/Cap 1
J 3/4" Copper Male Adapter • C x MIP 1
K Copper Female Adapter • 3/4” C x 1/2 “ FIP 1
L 3/4" Copper Female Adapter • C x FIP 3
M 3/4" Copper Female 90° Elbow • C x FIP 1
N 3/4" Copper Short 90° Elbow • C x C 2
O 3/4" Copper Tee • C x C x C 4
P 3/4" Copper Coupling • C x C 1
Q 3/4" Copper Tube (various lengths – not included) 10
Mounting Location
There are five major factors to consider when selecting the solar water heater installation location;
1. For optimum performance the solar collectors need to face the equator (in Southern hemisphere this is north
and in the Northern hemisphere this is South). Installation on angles of up to 45° away from the equator do
not have a major effect on the annual solar output, consequently roof locations which face less than 45°
away from the equator are acceptable. If the collectors are installed with an east facing bias the best solar
input is achieved in the morning and if there is a west facing bias the best solar input is in the afternoon.
2. Careful site inspection is required to ensure the selected location is not subjected to shading from adjacent
trees or buildings throughout the day but particularly between 9am and 3pm the highest solar input times.
Shadows are longer in winter than in summer so a site that is free of shadows from adjacent objects in
summer may have some shadows in winter.
3. The solar water heater is to be located a minimum of 3 foot up from the roofs lower edge, 3 foot in from
either side of the roof, and 3 foot down from the roofs ridge line and should be located as close as possible
to the location which uses the most hot water e.g. bathroom or kitchen. This is to reduce energy losses
which may occur if the pipe work between the solar water heater and the point of usage is too long.
4. To achieve optimum performance the solar water heater should be installed on a roof pitch of greater than
8° and less than 30°. Installations on a roof where the roof pitch is greater than 30° will require additional
support at the storage tank to prevent it moving downward after installation. If the roof pitch is less than 8°
the system will require a mounting frame to increase the pitch above 8°. Installations below 8° do not
thermosiphon effectively and the collector glass will not self clean during rainy periods.
5. Careful inspection of the roof truss system is essential to ensure it can support the systems weight once
filled with water. Particular care must be taken where the front foot of the storage tank is located. Typically
the tank front foot should be located over a tile batten, purlin or similar for maximum strength. If the roof can
not support the load additional bracing must be installed before the solar water heater is installed.
6

Mounting Methods
There are 3 methods of attaching the system to the roof structure; lag-bolts, J-bolts or spanner mounting.
NOTE: All mounting bolts, washers, split-lock washers & nuts are to be stainless steel.
Lag-Bolts – Lag-bolt mounting is the preferred method of install. The mounting clips are secured directly
into the upper chord of the roof truss (the detail below shows an install using a triangular mount bracket).
The lag-bolt must penetrate 3” into the structural member. A 2” deep pilot hole must be drilled into the truss
with a 1/8” diameter bit before inserting the lag bolt.
Lag-bolt Mounting Detail
J-Bolts – J-bolt mounting is preferred in installations where the roof truss members are not easily identified
from the outside of the roof. Clearance holes for the J-bolts are typically drilled from inside the attic space.
Two install service personnel are typically required, one in the attic space and one on the roof, when
installing J-bolts to insure the J-bolt is secured properly.
J-bolt Mounting Detail
Spanner mounting – Spanner mounting is by far the most common method of installation. Steel angle or
wood 2” x 4”’s are used to span between the truss members. Two spacer blocks are required when the
threaded rod is 2” or more from the truss member. Only one spacer block is required when the threaded rod
is within 1” of the truss. Spacer blocks are to be no greater than 1” from the threaded rod.
Spanner Mounting Detail
7

Mounting the Collector
The collector installation procedure is as follows: (See also the diagram on page 7)
1. From the inside of the roof, in the attic crawl space, measure the center-to-center distance between the
roof trusses. This distance is required to secure the mount clips to the collector prior to attaching the
collector to the roof structure.
2. Position two (2) mount clips along each end of the collector (ends have no pipes – see the diagram) a
distance apart equal to the center-to-center roof truss spacing. Insure the mounts are centered across
the collector ends and secure them with the locking bolts (multiple collector installations will require the
mount clips to be slightly off center, this allows for the spacing between collectors).
3. Place the collector on the roof in the area selected for install.
4. Starting in the upper left-hand quadrant of the selected install area, locate the position of the nearest
roof truss. Measure down from the peak of the roof, a distance of 60” and make a mark on the roof tile.
This will be the position of the top left mounting hole of the collector mount clip.
5. Using silicone caulk or roofing mastic, coat the underside of a roof mount flashing. Place the flashing
into position centered over the proposed mounting hole, insuring that the top of the flashing is under the
upper roof tiles and the bottom of the flashing laps over the lower roof tiles. Secure the flashing using a
couple of roofing nails under the upper roof tiles.
6. Drill an appropriately sized hole (as dictated by the method of attachment) into the roofing structure.
7. Place the collector into position with the upper-left mounting foot centered over the newly drilled hole
and align the collector to be square with the roof.
8. Using the installed mount clips as a template, mark the position of the remaining mount holes on the
roof tiles then set the collector aside.
9. Secure flashings and drill holes for the remaining mount clips.
10. Using silicone caulk or roofing mastic, apply a liberal amount of sealant around the openings to all of the
newly drilled holes then place the collector into position and secure using the stainless steel hardware
selected for the install method.
11. Check to insure that all mount connections are tight and prepare to mount the tank.
Mounting the Thermosiphon Tank
The procedure for mounting the Thermosiphon tank is as follows: (See also the diagram on page 7)
1. Using the collector mounts as a reference, measure from the center of the upper mount bolts a distance of
four (4) inches. Pop a chalk line connecting the two points and extending outward approximately one (1) foot
on either side of the collector.
2. Position the Thermosiphon tank into place above and centered to the collector. Line up the mounting holes
(on the tank mount rail closest to the collector) centered on the marked chalk line. Mark the position of the
mount holes and set the tank aside.
3. As with the collectors, secure flashings and drill holes for each of the mount locations. Apply a liberal
amount of sealant around the newly drilled holes.
4. Position the tank into place over the mount holes and secure using the appropriate stainless steel hardware.
5. Check to insure that all mount connections are tight. Apply a liberal amount of sealant over all of the mount
hardware heads/threads (tank and collectors).
8

Plumbing Connections
Assemble the hot/cold interface plumbing to the collector as shown in the detail on page 7. Various lengths of copper
tubing is required and should be soldered together using lead-free solder. Service connections to the Thermosiphon
system should include isolation and drain valves (not included) internal to the residence.
Insure that the drain line from the Temperature and Pressure relief is plumbed to a safe location. Remember this pipe
can discharge very hot water carefully consider its location.
For installations using an AES system, an electrician is required to install a domestic electrical outlet socket adjacent
the auxiliary water heater location. The auxiliary water heater typically requires a 220-240 volt 60 Hz power supply.
Be sure to check the water heater specification prior to the installation of the electrical circuit.
NOTE: Use only lead-free solder. Use of 50/50 lead solder is expressly prohibited. Use of galvanized steel, CPVC,
PVC, PEX or any other type of plastic pipe is prohibited.
ELECTRIC (AES) INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Note:
1. All electrical work must comply with local regulations
2. All electrical work must be conducted by a suitability licensed electrician.
3. Installation of the Electric Water Heater must be installed in accordance with the Installation
supplied with the Electric Water Heater.
Important
Do not turn on the power supply until the water heater has been filled with water and pressurized.
GAS (AES) INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
Note:
1. All gas work must comply with local regulations
2. All gas work must be conducted by a suitability licensed gas fitter.
3. Installation of the Gas Heater must be installed in accordance with the Installation supplied with
the Gas Heater.
4. EAGLESUN™ systems only use gas heaters manufactured by DUX, Rinnai or Bosch.
5. Particular attention must be given to the gas supply system to ensure the there is a sufficient gas supply
available to the gas heater when operating at full output burner rate.
Commissioning
When all connections have been completed the solar water heater can be filled with water.
Before turning on the cold water supply open one hot tap within the household to release air from the system during
the filling process. Do not leave the open tap unattended during the filling process.
Turn on the cold water supply and wait for the system to fill. When water flows without air bursts from the open hot
tap it can be closed which will pressurize the solar water heater system.
Once the system is pressurized all connections on the water heater must be checked for leaks and repaired if
necessary.
When the system is proven water tight, power and gas can be applied to the AES system. To test that the element is
operational turn the circuit breaker in the switch board on and off, you should see the power meters speed change
during this action. For gas AES systems turn on a hot water tap and the gas heater will ignite provided the water
temperature is less than 60°C.
The solar water heater is now fully operational.
Customer Hand Over
Once the solar water heater is commissioned and you are confident it is operating correctly complete the installation
details in the Owners Instructions section of this manual and pass this manual and the gas heater manual (if used) to
the customer.
Before leaving the installation insure that the customer is fully aware of the systems operation and whom to contact
should there be any questions in the future.
9

OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
How do I operate the system?
A EAGLESUN™ solar water heater is designed for fully automatic operation, so there is nothing you need to do for
day to day system operation. If the AES System has been fitted with a remote isolator switch or time-clock, you may
make the decision when and if Ancillary Energy Support is permitted. As a guide you may like to isolate the AES
System during the summer months, you may use a time clock to permit boosting after sunset or any other
combination, which suits your usage pattern. Careful use of these options can further reduce your energy needs for
hot water supply to the household.
Words of CAUTION
All water heaters have the ability to produce hot water very quickly. To reduce the risk of scald injury it is
recommended that a temperature control valve be fitted to the hot water supply pipe work. This valve should be
checked at regular intervals to ensure its operation and settings remain correct. Please check that the pressure &
temperature relief valve relief pipe is not located where it can cause damage if hot water is discharged.
What should I do during holidays?
If you are going to be away for a period of a week or more during the summer months it is advisable to turn off the
electricity supply to the booster and if practical cover the solar collectors. If the solar collectors are not covered there
is a possibility that the high temperature valve in the storage tank may open for a short period to reduce the storage
tank temperature while you are away. This is a normal function and does not harm the system. Warning: If the hot
water system is not used for two weeks or more, a quantity of hydrogen gas, which is highly flammable, may
accumulate in the water heater. To dissipate this gas safely, it is recommended that a hot tap be turned on for several
minutes at a sink, basin or bath but not a dishwasher, clothes washer, or other appliance. During this procedure there
must be no smoking, open flame or any other electrical appliance operating nearby. If hydrogen is discharged
through the tap, it will probably make an unusual noise as with air escaping. Do not place hands or any part of your
body beneath the tap during this procedure.
Why is there water discharge for the pressure valve?
All EAGLESUN™ solar water heaters have either one or two pressure valves in the water pipe work.
For solar water heaters that only have a Pressure & Temperature valve located on the storage tank it is normal for a
small water discharge to occur during the heating cycle of the system. The water discharge is water expanding due to
the heating process. Normally the discharge will be less than 2.5 gallons per day.
What should I check before making a service call?
If there is not enough hot water it is recommended that the following points are considered before making a service
call.
Low Solar Energy Input
If there have been prolonged periods of cloud or winter is approaching, it may be necessary to reconsider the
permitted boosting time for time-clock controlled systems or to turn on the booster for systems with a booster isolation
switch.
Solar collector shading
Often trees or other buildings can shade the solar collectors or there can be a dirt build-up on the glass cover. Trees
should be cut back if possible or the system relocated if removal of the shading is not possible in the present location.
If the glass is dirty this should be cleaned with any normal domestic glass cleaner.
AES System not operating
For electric systems, the fuse, circuit breaker supplying the AES System should be checked. If the time clock (where
fitted) and the fuse or circuit breaker are operational and the water is cold, you can turn the booster isolator on and off
to see if the electricity meter speed changes. If there is no change in speed, it indicates there may be a booster
problem and a service call will be necessary. It is important to remember – Do not open or adjust any electrical
covers or devices yourself.
For gas systems the gas and electric supplies to the gas heater should be checked to ensure they are both on. If
water temperature from the gas heater is below 120°F and both supplies are on and the gas heater does not ignite
there may be a problem and a service call will be necessary
10

Is there excessive water discharge for the Valves?
If there is a discharge of more than 2.5 gallons per day from any of the systems valves, it indicates there is a problem
that requires a service call.
Are you using more hot water than you think?
Often the hot water usage of showers, washing machines and dishwashers is under estimated. Review these
appliances to determine if your daily usage is greater than the storage volume of your water heater. If the system
contains 50 gallons of hot water and your usage is greater than 50 gallons there may be periods where the water
temperature is slightly lower than normal. It is also advisable to inspect tap washers etc. for leakage and replace if
necessary.
MAINTENANCE
System Maintenance
The EAGLESUN™ system is designed such that there is little to do regarding system maintenance.
Personally inspecting or servicing the system is not recommended. Should you decide to personally inspect the roof
mounted system it is essential that you use all safety devices required to ensure your safety. Glass cleaning usually
occurs by natural rainfall, however if the installation is in an industrial (or similar) area with high levels of airborne
particles then a qualified person can clean the collector glass with normal window cleaning chemicals and equipment.
Each five years you should contact the local service agent to replace all safety valves to ensure continued life and
operational safety of the system. In locations where the potable water has a Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) of greater
than 600 ppm this service is recommended every 3 years.
Useful Technical Data
Storage Tank Weight Empty
(lbs) Weight Full (lbs) Actual Volume (gallons)
FF-50C 102 494 47
Collector Weight Empty
(lbs) Weight Full (lbs) Collector Area (ft²)
AE-26 90 97.5 25.3
Fluid Quality
This system uses water as a heat transfer fluid media in the solar loop.
“No other fluid shall be used that would change the original classification of this system. Unauthorized
alterations to this system could result in a hazardous health condition.”
System Parts Listing
Component Manufacturer Model
Solar Collector Alternate Energy Technologies, LLC AE Series
Water Storage Tank Alternate Energy Technologies, LLC FF-50C
Freeze Protection Valve Invensys Appliance Controls FP-45
T&P Relief Valve Watts Regulator Series 100XL-8
Isolation “Ball” Valves Watts Regulator B6001 Series
Drain “Ball” Valve Watts Regulator BD Series
Anti-Scald Valve Honeywell – Sparcomix AM-1-Series
11

12
Estimated Component Life
When installed and maintained as directed in this manual, one can expect many years of trouble-free service from
this system. All components in this system are subject to the conditions of the installation. In locations where hard
water is present, mineral deposits can prematurely foul-out the design life of these components. Periodic
maintenance is required to insure that these components are well protected from such damage.
The solar collectors used in this system have a design life of 30+ years. Water storage tanks are designed for 12-20
years of use. The lesser components, such as pumps and valves are designed for 5+ years, however, are more likely
to foul, as described above, if not maintained properly.
Hazards
Solar collectors become very hot when in direct sun with no fluid being circulated through them. Extreme caution
should be taken when standing near, or handling solar collectors in this state.
Relief valves may discharge fluids at high temperature and/or pressure.
Fluid Safety Labeling
Included with your solar system is a set of labels which describe the component function. These labels are necessary
to alert the owner of potential hazards. These labels are affixed by string/wire tie (on valves) and/or “peel-and-stick”
(on pipe insulation). All labeling must be in place at final inspection. Label examples are as shown on the following
page.
Warranties And Disclaimers
Please note that we specifically exclude any warranty for, or liability from, acts of nature, including freeze damage
and shading of the collectors by future growth.
Warranty periods for all the major components are given below:
Item Part# Period
Collector AE Series 10 years
Storage Tank Various 6 years
Valves Various 1 year
All parts are available from your authorized agent or from AET direct.
“The solar energy system described by this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the
minimum standards established by the Florida Solar Energy Center in accordance with Section 377.705,
Florida Statutes. This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the Florida
Solar Energy Center or the state of Florida."