Xylem CentriPro Aquavar SOLO 2 Instruction Manual

How do I size the Aquavar SOLO² for the appropriate pump/motor combination?
Can I use a 208V motor?
Can I run the Aquavar SOLO² up to 80 HZ?
What are the recommended spare parts for an Aquavar SOLO²? Can I repair?
Can I mount the Aquavar SOLO² controller in an outside environment? If so what are the maximum conditions
allowed?
What if my Aquavar SOLO² controller is not putting out the recommended output in GPM?
Why does my pressure drop suddenly during start up?
What about interference with AM radio or other devices?
Is the unit sensitive to lighting strikes or voltage disturbances?
Can I use the Aquavar SOLO² with generators?
Can I use GFCI protected power for the Aquavar SOLO² controller?
Is my pressure transducer sensitive to stray voltage and electrical disturbances?
What type of breakers or fuses should I use?
Can I use aluminum wire (pre-existing or new installation)?
Will the Aquavar SOLO² increase the life of my pump and motor compared to a conventional switch system?
Is the pressure transducer operation sensitive to poor signal and electrical disturbances?
Can submersible cable (copper 75°) be used to extend the length of transducer?
When sizing the Aquavar SOLO² for use with another motor manufacturer, is it recommended to upsize to the next size
Aquavar SOLO², to maximize the performance of the pump?
Can the Aquavar SOLO² run without the pressure transducer/or if there is a transducer failure?
What accessories are offered for use with the Aquavar SOLO²?
Are 80 Hz performance curves available?
Can I use a oat switch instead of a pressure transducer with the Aquavar SOLO²?
How far can the oat switch be from the drive? What is the maximum total length for pressure transducer cable?
Is the pressure transducer affected by a vacuum, or by water hammer?
What causes a pressure uctuation of more than 5 PSI (assuming the controller is set at 5 PSI not 20)?
What is the proper orientation and location for the pressure transducer?
How can the Aquavar SOLO² be used to develop a well system?
Can the Aquavar SOLO² be used for surface mount booster applications? What are the motor electrical requirements?
Can I run a 50 Hz motor with the Aquavar SOLO² or use the Aquavar SOLO² in a 50 Hz application?
Can I use a 208V input on the Aquavar SOLO²?
Why would I use Dual Set points and how do I set it up?
How do I program output relays?
Can the Aquavar SOLO² run a chlorinator or another external metering pump?
Aquavar SOLO2
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS / AQSOLO2FAQ

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Residential Water CentriPro
HOW DO I SIZE THE AQUAVAR SOLO² FOR THE APPROPRIATE PUMP/MOTOR COMBINATION?
The Aquavar SOLO² can accept any 3 phase, 230 volt 4” submersible motor up to its rated amperage.
The Aquavar SOLO² has an adjustable overload switch to dial in the correct full load or service factor amperage.
CAN I USE A 208V MOTOR?
Yes, The Aquavar SOLO² monitors amperage draw from the motor and as long as it is within the current rating set on
the overload switch. Ensure the input voltage is within ≤ 196V and < 265V. The user may see a drop in performance if
the SFA setting is less than the motor’s SFA rating.
CAN I RUN THE AQUAVAR SOLO² UP TO 80 HZ?
Yes, as long as the rated amperage for the motor at 80 HZ does not exceed the overload switch setting or max amps
of the drive. Switch the setting on the controller to 80 HZ max speed. Example: If you have a 1.5HP submersible wet
end and use a 3HP motor, then size a 3HP Aquavar SOLO² (3AS30) which is rated for 10.9 max amps, which is equal to
1.5HP hydraulic performance.
WHAT ARE THE RECOMMENDED SPARE PARTS FOR AN AQUAVAR SOLO2? CAN I REPAIR?
The pressure transducer (sensor) is recommended to keep on hand for repair. In addition the UIB, Fan kit and
transducer cable are also replaceable.
CAN I MOUNT THE AQUAVAR SOLO² CONTROLLER IN AN OUTSIDE ENVIRONMENT? IF SO WHAT ARE THE
MAXIMUM CONDITIONS ALLOWED?
The Aquavar SOLO² series is rated UL type 3R enclosure, outdoor or rain-tight and can accept ambient conditions up
to 122º F. If the controller gets too hot it will reduce speed to cool off and this will affect pump performance. Caution is
advised for humid and poor air quality environments.
WHAT IF MY AQUAVAR SOLO² CONTROLLER IS NOT PUTTING OUT THE RECOMMENDED OUTPUT IN GPM?
Check rotation of the motor, verify ambient conditions, check motor wire and splices and nally check the pump for
clogging or valve operation. Verify SFA setting matches the motor’s SFA rating. Additionally lower input voltage can
reduce pump performance.
WHY DOES MY PRESSURE DROP SUDDENLY DURING START UP?
A properly sized air diaphragm tank and pre-charge (see IOM) is necessary during rapid use of water at start up. Look
at the pump depth, static levels and maximum system demand (GPM) to determine how much time is necessary for the
water to reach the transducer placement. Remember, the Aquavar SOLO² controller is a soft-start and will take a few
seconds to respond depending upon the distance between the pump discharge and transducer placement.
WHAT ABOUT INTERFERENCE WITH AM RADIO OR OTHER DEVICES?
The Aquavar SOLO² controller has several design features that reduce the unwanted electromagnetic interference
(EMI) sometimes contributed to VFD acceptance. Levels are established by the FCC for residential and commercial
installations. It is suggested to always keep Aquavar SOLO² power and motor leads away from sensitive devices and
ensure proper grounding for all components of the Aquavar SOLO² system including motor, piping, breaker and main
panel.
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Residential Water CentriPro
IS THE UNIT SENSITIVE TO LIGHTING STRIKES OR VOLTAGE DISTURBANCES?
Yes. Nothing can prevent direct hits from lightning, however, the Aquavar SOLO2 does use surge arrestors to
prevent damage of indirect strikes and intermittent voltage uctuations. These protective devices are the same as
used in expensive residential surge arrestors for computers and electronic protection. For additional protection we
recommend an external surge and lightning protection.
CAN I USE THE AQUAVAR SOLO² WITH GENERATORS?
Yes, properly sized and equipped generators can be used. See IM229 for sizing and requirements.
CAN I USE GFCI PROTECTED POWER FOR THE AQUAVAR SOLO² CONTROLLER?
No, like most VFD’s there is a higher leakage current to ground that will cause nuisance tripping. It is designed for
equipment protection on short circuit.
IS MY PRESSURE TRANSDUCER SENSITIVE TO STRAY VOLTAGE AND ELECTRICAL DISTURBANCES?
Yes. The Aquavar SOLO² provided pressure transducer also has electrical surge protection built into the electronics. It
is still recommended to ground the metal piping and sensor casing for plastic pipe to ensure the transducer is bonded
to the same ground point as the incoming power and submersible motor.
WHAT TYPE OF BREAKERS OR FUSES SHOULD I USE?
Fast acting or quick trip type to ensure proper short circuit protection of the drive electronics. Class T fuses or UL 498 /
UL98 rated breakers. Breaker must not have a time delay.
CAN I USE ALUMINUM WIRE (PRE-EXISTING OR NEW INSTALLATION)?
No. Due to the differences in resistance and other properties, it is NOT recommended using aluminum wire (even if
oversized) with the Aquavar SOLO².
WILL THE AQUAVAR SOLO² INCREASE THE LIFE OF MY PUMP AND MOTOR COMPARED TO A CONVENTIONAL
SWITCH SYSTEM?
All things being equal the Aquavar SOLO² reduces the initial start up thrust, and water hammer associated with
conventional systems. Soft-start, soft shut down, reduced in-rush current, reduced wear on mechanical components of
the pump and motor will help extend life. Proper installation and well conditions still remains the key to pump system
longevity.
IS THE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER OPERATION SENSITIVE TO POOR SIGNAL AND ELECTRICAL DISTURBANCES?
Rule of thumb is to not coil excess transducer cable. Coiling the excess cable can lead to stray voltage/electrical
disturbances that can affect the transducer’s ability to correctly read the pressure. Cut excess transducer wire once
correct length is determined and run transducer wire through its own separate conduit whenever possible.
CAN SUBMERSIBLE CABLE (COPPER 75°) BE USED TO EXTEND THE LENGTH OF TRANSDUCER?
Yes, Single and double jacketed, single stranded wire is acceptable; please refer to local code requirements.
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WHEN SIZING THE AQUAVAR SOLO² FOR USE WITH ANOTHER MOTOR MANUFACTURER, IS IT RECOMMENDED
TO UPSIZE TO THE NEXT SIZE AQUAVAR SOLO², TO MAXIMIZE THE PERFORMANCE OF THE PUMP?
The Aquavar SOLO² is rated for use with most submersible motors for their given horsepower rating. Please compare
the service factor amps (SFA) on the motor to the maximum output on the drive. If the motor SFA value is higher than
the capacity on the drive than the drive may limit the speed of the motor, which will lower the output performance of
the pump. The amperage data can be found in the Aquavar SOLO² bulletin.
CAN THE AQUAVAR SOLO² RUN WITHOUT THE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER/OR IF THERE IS A TRANSDUCER FAILURE?
Yes, You can bypass or “jump’ the transducer by placing a jumper from the lower terminals to the upper terminals.
The jumper is located to the right of the transducer connections on the inside of the drive. Refer to IM229 for specic
details.
WHAT ACCESSORIES ARE OFFERED FOR USE WITH THE AQUAVAR SOLO²?
The ability to install a oat switch, an overpressure switch, or a moisture sensor. These would be installed in place of the
jumper on the switch input. Please reference the Instruction manual for details.
ARE 80 HZ PERFORMANCE CURVES AVAILABLE?
Many 30-80 Hz curves and selection charts are published within the 30-80 Hz ProPak Bulletin.
CAN I USE A FLOAT SWITCH INSTEAD OF A PRESSURE TRANSDUCER WITH THE AQUAVAR SOLO²?
Yes. The Aquavar SOLO² has a switch input for oat, pressure, or other non-powered switches. Refer to IM229 for
specic details.
HOW FAR CAN THE FLOAT SWITCH BE FROM THE DRIVE? WHAT IS THE MAXIMUM TOTAL LENGTH FOR
PRESSURE TRANSDUCER CABLE?
The maximum distance of oat switch and pressure transducer cable is 200 feet.
IS THE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER AFFECTED BY A VACUUM, OR BY WATER HAMMER?
Yes the transducer can be affected by a vacuum. It is not designed to be exposed to negative pressure and damage
to the diaphragm inside the transducer can result. It can also be damaged by repetitive water hammer. If you suspect
either condition, a gauge guard (6K210) may dampen the effects and protect the transducer. In addition a vacuum
on the transducer of more than 17” Hg will cause the drive to fault out on a 3 blink alarm - sensor fault. In addition the
pressure transducer requires protection from freezing.
WHAT CAUSES A PRESSURE FLUCTUATION OF MORE THAN 5 PSI (ASSUMING THE CONTROLLER IS SET AT 5
PSI NOT 20)?
Pressure uctuations are the result of changes in demand. So a rapid drop of more than 5 psi could simply be from
opening a valve quickly. It could also be from a rupture in the diaphragm tank or a poorly working check valve.
WHAT IS THE PROPER ORIENTATION AND LOCATION FOR THE PRESSURE TRANSDUCER?
Pressure transducer should be placed close to the tank in the vertical or horizontal orientation. Do not install the
pressure transducer with the pressure port facing up to avoid lling the port with debris. Do not install any valves
(except for a check valve) between the pressure transducer and the pump.
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Residential Water CentriPro
HOW CAN THE AQUAVAR SOLO² BE USED TO DEVELOP A WELL SYSTEM?
Set the low pressure cutoff function to off to avoid tripping on low pressure. Use this function for open discharge
situations or whenever the system pressure will be 20 PSI or more below the system set point pressure. The low
pressure cutoff function must be returned to the on position after system set up is complete.
CAN THE AQUAVAR SOLO² BE USED FOR SURFACE MOUNT BOOSTER APPLICATIONS? WHAT ARE THE MOTOR
ELECTRICAL REQUIREMENTS?
Yes, however we do supply the Aquavar ABII or S-Drive for this application. The surface mount motor does not typically
require the lter that is used with submersible motors. That is why the Aquavar ABII and S Drive are more appropriate
for surface mount applications than the Aquavar SOLO².
CAN I RUN A 50 HZ MOTOR WITH THE AQUAVAR SOLO² OR USE THE AQUAVAR SOLO² IN A 50 HZ APPLICATION?
The Aquavar SOLO can be used in a 50 Hz application, 50 Hz input in combination with lower input voltage than 230V
will likely reduce hydraulic performance in order to compensate for higher running current load. This is similar to
system response in “dirty voltage” conditions.
CAN I USE A 208V INPUT ON THE AQUAVAR SOLO²?
Yes, the input power used must be a grounded power system. The voltage measured from L1 and L2 must be in the
range of 196VAC to 265VAC. The voltage measured from L1 to GND and L2 to GND must be equal and within a range
of 120VAC ±10%. Reduced input voltage will reduce system performance.
WHY WOULD I USE DUAL SET POINTS AND HOW DO I SET IT UP?
Dual set points are used in an application where a different set point value is required for a portion of the day such as
night set back or irrigation system. Please reference IM229 for set up.
HOW DO I PROGRAM OUTPUT RELAYS?
To congure the output relay parameter rst press and hold the mode button for 10 seconds, this will allow you to
scroll through the menu structure. Press the down button 5 times until you reach “rCon”. Press the mode button for 2
seconds to enter the parameter list. Use the down button to select the parameter, choose from RUN, Fault and Not
Fault. Once parameter is selected, press MODE button and wait for parameter to blink to conrm it was saved. Please
reference IM229 for additional set up.
HOW DO I RESET FAULT HISTORY?
To reset the fault history rst press and hold the mode button for 10 seconds, this will allow you to scroll through the
menu structure. Press the down button 3 times until you reach “FrSt” (Fault code history reset). Press and hold the
mode button for 2 seconds to reset. Display will read done when reset is complete.
CAN THE AQUAVAR SOLO² RUN A CHLORINATOR OR ANOTHER EXTERNAL METERING PUMP?
Yes, however the external pump requires its own power source. The Aquavar SOLO² can provide an output signal to
control the metering pump. Please reference IM229 for additional set up.
CentriPro is a trademark of Xylem Inc. or one of its subsidiaries.
© 2020 Xylem Inc. AQSOLO2FAQ January 2020
Xylem Inc.
www.xylem.com/centripro
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