SUNFLOWER SFD-SS Series User manual




For our present, For their future.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.032
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
SFD-SS series Installation Manual
Pressure Solar Water Heater with Copper Coil
Contents
1. SOLAR WATER HEATER SIZE AND WEIGHT ...................................................................................................3
2. HOW TO TRANSPORT AND CARRY IT...............................................................................................................3
3. INSTALLATION..........................................................................................................................................................4
1.1 INSTALLATION LOCATION CHOICE ......................................................................................................................4
1.2 UNPACK AND INSPECTION ...................................................................................................................................4
1.3 ASSEMBLE THE FRAMES,TANK AND VACUUM TUBES..........................................................................................5
3.3.1 Assemble frames ...........................................................................................................................................5
3.4 FIX SOLAR WATER SUPPLIER (OPTIONAL ACCESSORY)...........................................................................................12
3.4.1 The diagram of the connectors of water supplier ...........................................................................12
3.4.2 Water Supplier Assembly (optional accessory) ...............................................................................12
3.5 THE WATER INLET AND WATER OUTLET PIPE CHANNEL CONNECTION OF SOLAR WATER HEATER.........................13
3.5.1 Use the water directly after heating exchange through the water tank. (Suitable for
Torrid Zone)
.............................................................................................................................................................13
3.5.2 The connection of solar water heater and Wall-mounted gas water heater. .......................13
3.5.3 The connection of solar water heater with gas heating water tank or electrical heating
water tank.
...............................................................................................................................................................14
3.5.4 The connection of solar water heater with the water tank (which has heat exchange
connectors).
.............................................................................................................................................................14
3.6 TRIAL OPERATION AND TROUBLESHOOT METHODS.................................................................................................15
3.6.1 Trial operation. ............................................................................................................................................15
3.6.2 Troubleshoot methods. .............................................................................................................................15
3.6.3 Check the air vent to make sure its fluency. .....................................................................................15
4. LIGHTNING PROTECTION...................................................................................................................................15
5. DIMENSIONS OF PIPE CONNECTIONS...........................................................................................................16
6. PRECAUTIONS.........................................................................................................................................................16
7. MAX. WORKING PRESSURE................................................................................................................................16
8. INSTALLATION ANGLE.........................................................................................................................................16
9. WIND AND SNOW LOAD......................................................................................................................................16
10. MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS......................................................................................................................17
10.1 CLEANING................................................................................................................................................................17
10.2 LEAVES.....................................................................................................................................................................17
10.3 BROKEN TUBE .........................................................................................................................................................17

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.033
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
Please begin to assemble after you read over the
manual carefully!
1. Solar water heater size and weight
Fig 1.1
Specification Size(mm)
Item No. Diameter of
water tank
Qty. of solar
tubes
Diameter of
solar tube
Length of
solar tube Weight A B C D
SFD47155818-SS Ø 470mm 15pcs Ø 58mm 1.8M 63KG 1348 1228 1594 1655
SFD47185818-SS Ø 470mm 18pcs Ø 58mm 1.8M 74KG 1591 1471 1594 1655
SFD47205818-SS Ø 470mm 20pcs Ø 58mm 1.8M 84KG 1753 1633 1594 1655
SFD47245818-SS Ø 470mm 24pcs Ø 58mm 1.8M 99KG 2077 1957 1594 1655
SFD47305818-SS Ø 470mm 30pcs Ø 58mm 1.8M 118KG 2563 2443 1594 1655
2. How to transport and carry it
Please carry tank horizontally. It’s forbidden to carry it vertically.
Please carry glass tubes carefully and horizontally. It’s forbidden to carry it vertically.
If you want to transport your solar water heater in long distance, it’s better to put tubes at bottom and make
sure it won’t move in transportation. To save space, you can put glass tubes on cartons of tanks. And do the
best to drive carefully, avoiding bumpy road.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.034
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3. Installation
Installation sequence:
1.1 Installation location choice
The choices of solar water heater installation location have several principles as follows:
a) Solar water heater needs to face the Sun, make sure without any shadow in front;
b) Try to use shortest pipe connection, try to reduce the turning, no dead angle;
c) The installation location needs to bear the gravity of solar water heater, stable placement;
d) Easy installation and maintenance.
1.2 Unpack and inspection
Total quantity
SFD47*5818-SS
No
. Name
15 18 20 24 30
1 Water tank 1 1 1 1 1
2 Gantry 2 2 3 3 3
3 Decoration ring 15+1 18+1 20+1 24+1 30+1
4 Silicon ring +1 +1 +1 +1 +1
5 Tube caps 15+1 18+1 20+1 24+1 30+1
6 Diagonal-leg 2 2 3 3 3
7 Stand bar 2 2 3 3 3
8 Tube holder 1 1 1 1 1
9 Long diagonal brace 2 2 3 3 3
10 Short diagonal brace 2 2 4 4 4
11 Horizontal bar 1 1 2 2 2
12 Tie bar 2 2 4 4 4
13 Screw 1 PKG 1 PKG 1 PKG 1 PKG 1 PKG
14 Vacuum Tube 15 18 20 24 30
Note: In above form, the number after “+” means the quantity of extra free compensation parts.
1.Installationlocationchoice2.Checkallparts3.Framesassembl
y
4.FramePlacement5.Watertankassembly
6.Vacuumtubeassembly
7.Watersupplierconnection
(Optionalaccessory)
8.Pipechannelconnection 9.Trialoperation
10.Qualified

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.035
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
1.3 Assemble the Frames, Tank and vacuum tubes
3.3.1 Assemble frames
The frame and all fastenings are contained in a long thin carton. Please unpack this carton with cares
and lay out the parts. Please collect all the nuts, in fear losing one or some.
Use the pictures on the below to help identify the parts needed for each stage of the assembly.
Fig 3.1
Fig 3.1 Spec.: Using a pair of M8×12 bolt connecting with water tank bracket, front leg , rear leg and two
haul pole, forming side piece . Two legs frame is 2 pieces, three legs frame is 3 pieces.
Fig 3.2
Fig 3.2 Spec.: Join two crossed brace through center hole with a pair of M8×25 bolts, 3 legs frame has two
groups of 4 pieces crossed brace.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.036
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
Fig 3.3
Fig 3.3. Spec.: Connect crossbar, positive haul pole and two sides of pieces with a pair of M8×12 bolt. Three
legs frame has 3 side pieces and 2 crossbars. Connect end seat and front leg, with a pair of M8×12
bolts.
Fig 3.4
Fig 3.4 Spec: Connect foot shim with bolt pairs under the front leg and rear leg.


http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.037
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3.3.2 Assemble water cylinder (Water tank)
You are now ready to place the frame in position. If attaching directly to the ground now lower the hot
water cylinder on to the cradle at the top of the frame, ensure the bolts from the cylinder are through
the slots on the cradle and fit the nuts finger tight. Using a string or straight edge to check the
alignment of the tube carriage guides and tube locating holes in the cylinders. Gently turn the cylinder
to achieve alignment. If the holes are not aligned the unit may leak or tubes may break when being
fitted. Once the cylinder is aligned tighten the bolts to lock it in place and recheck alignment.
Note: Before assembly, please check the water cylinder and there is other thing or not inside it, if yes,
please take it out and clean it with water.
Fig 3.5
Fig 3.5 Spec. : After confirmation of finishing installating the frames, put the water tank on the frame and
tighten the screw cap.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.038
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3.3.3 Assemble Vacuum Tubes
Carefully unpack the vacuum tube; remember this is glass, unlike the rest of assembly this will
break unless handled carefully. Fit a black rubber dust seal to the tubes from the open end with
the rounded side facing down. Slide this 200mm down the tube.
Apply a smear of grease to the top 100mm of the open end of the first vacuum glass tube. Using
a gentle pressure and twisting motion insert the greased tube into the locating hole until it is
well inside the cylinder and the bottom end of the tube is at least 25mm clear of the tube
carriage guides. Now using a gentle downward pressure and twisting motion lower the tube
until it fits snugly into the carriage guide.
Slide the black rubber dust seal up the tube until it’s outside edge fits flush with the cylinder.
Repeat for the rest of the tubes.
Details:
1. Please install the stand frame and the water tank firstly;
2. Add a little of scour (such as washing-up liquid, etc.) into the water. Then the water can be used as
lubricant;
3. Put the Ornament ring on the opening part of the SFVA tube. Daub some lubricant referred in the above
item on the opening part of the SFVA tube;
Fig 3.6
4. Insert SFVA into one of the water tank's holes for evacuated tubes. Please make sure the opening part of
the SFVA tube is inserted into the Seal Silicon ring and it's easily to insert if in the way of twisting motion
slowly;

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.039
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
Fig 3.7
4. After you insert the opening part of the SFVA tube into the holes of the water tank, put the end of the
tube into the cup of the frame and make sure the course is twisting motion slowly.
Fig 3.8

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0310
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
6. Move the Ornament ring to cling to Water tank. So one of the SFVA is installed.
Fig 3.8
7. With the step above, install the other SFVA tubes. Then all the tubes are installed.
Fig 3.9
Fig 3.9 Spec : After inserting the tubes, you can rotate the water tank slightly, make sure the tubes are in the
middle of the hole center. Thus, you can screw down all the bolts, connect the pipeline, (add the assistant
tank if you have bought it), exhaust the lengthen tube, clean the valve, until now we have already finished
the installation. When the water through the tank, if it don’t leak, means your customer can start to use.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0311
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
Fig 3.10
Fig 3.10 Spec. : The picture above is the whole figure.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0312
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3.4 Fix solar water supplier (optional accessory)
3.4.1 The diagram of the connectors of water supplier
.
Fig 3.11
3.4.2 Water Supplier Assembly (optional accessory)
The connector on the bottom of water supplier is connected to the right connector on the water tank of
solar water heater.
The air vent (the left connector) need to be connected with a long pipe, and the length of pipe must
higher than the top position of water supplier. The air vent needs to be open all the time.
Fig 3.10

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0313
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3.5 The water inlet and water outlet pipe channel connection of solar water heater
3.5.1 Use the water directly after heating exchange through the water tank. (Suitable for
Torrid Zone)
Fig 3.11
3.5.2 The connection of solar water heater and Wall-mounted gas water heater.
Fig 3.12

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0314
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
3.5.3 The connection of solar water heater with gas heating water tank or electrical
heating water tank.
Fig 3.13
3.5.4 The connection of solar water heater with the water tank (which has heat exchange
connectors).
Fig 3.14

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0315
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
Warning:
1) When the sunlight is adequate during the installation, you could full fill the glass tube with water and
then insert into the water tank, try to avoid thermal shock, it may lead to the broken of vacuum tube.
2) The air vent on the top of water tank needs to keep open. If adopt water supplier, please connect a long
pipe to the air vent, and the height must higher than the top position of water supplier.
3) Please pay attention to the weight capacity of roof.
4) Aerial work, please pay attention to safety.
5) If you use electric heater, the person who install the electric heater must have electrician qualification.
And you need to use electricity leakage protection plug and should connect with ground wire.
6) If you use solar controller, please read the assembly manual of solar controller before you install the
solar controller.
3.6 Trial operation and troubleshoot methods
3.6.1 Trial operation.
First please confirm whether the vacuum tube is shined by sunlight without water inside, otherwise can’t
feed the cold water.
Suggestions: If the process has to be finished under sunshine, you can cover the inserted tubes by black
cloth, etc.
3.6.2 Troubleshoot methods.
Open the cold water inlet, check the pipe channel and connection between vacuum tube and water tank, if
find any leakage, it should close the valve immediately, eliminate the leakage.
As for the leakage when insert the vacuum tube, there are normal four points as follow:
1) The broken of Silicon ring
2) There is adsorption bubble on the Silicon ring
3) Silicon ring is not connected with inner tank
4) Insert vacuum tubes without any lubricant
3.6.3 Check the air vent to make sure its fluency.
4. Lightning protection
The solar water heater should be done lightning protecting to avoid the lightning attacking. The lightning
rod is necessary which should be 1.5m higher and 3 m far away from the solar water heater. For any
problems that involve plumbing or electrical connections the services of a qualified professional must be
employed.
Warning: When in thunderstorm weather please don't use solar water heaters.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0316
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
5. Dimensions of pipe connections
All size of the connectors on the solar water heaters are 1/2 inch.
6. Precautions
1) When using solar water heater in cold climate, please put insulation layer around the pipes which
outside the room.
2) If you use electric heater, the person who install the electric heater must have electrician qualification.
And you need to use electricity leakage protection plug and should connect with ground wire.
7. Max. working pressure
This type is non-pressurized type, but the solar water heater could bear the gravity of water inside.
8. Installation Angle
It is common for collectors to be installed at an angle that corresponds to the latitude of the location.
Installing at an angle less than 20° is not recommended as the heat pipes perform best in the range of 20-70
degree While adhering to this guideline, an angle of latitude +/-10°is acceptable, and will not greatly reduce
solar output.
Angles beyond this range may be used, but a decrease in heat output will result. An angle lower than the
latitude will enhance summer output, while a greater angle will enhance winter output.
9. Wind and snow load
When installing the collector please consider the issue of wind resistance and the resultant stress on the
attachment points. the standard frame is designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 100km/h and 30cm
snow accumulation without damage. For the areas with possibility for high winds, additional reinforcement
of attachment points may be required and can easily be supplied by your local installers.

http://www.sunflower‐solar.com/


Version11.0317
Subject to change 2011 SUNFLOWER SOLAR
10. Maintenance Requirements
10.1 Cleaning
Regular rain should keep the evacuated tubes clean, but if particularly dirty they may be washed with a soft
cloth and warm, soapy water or glass cleaning solution, If the tubes are not easily and safely accessible,
high pressure water spray is also effective.
10.2 Leaves
During autumn, leaves may accumulate between or beneath the tubes. Please remove these leaves
regularly to ensure optimal performance and to prevent a fire hazard.(The solar collector will not cause the
ignition of flammable materials)
10.3 Broken Tube
When the vacuum tube is broken, please close the valve immediately, please open the valve after replace
the vacuum tube, in order to save the water consumption.