Rheem RS47-21BP, RS80-42BP installation instructions Introduction

Introduction

Thank you for purchasing a solar water heating system. It is one of the most effective and trouble-free systems available today. In addition to reducing your water-heating bills, it will help preserve precious natural resources by using free energy from the sun.

As with an electric or gas water heater, your new solar water heating system operates automatically to ensure you will always have an ample supply of hot water.

However, there are simple steps you can take to increase both its efficiency and service life.

This manual provides the manufacturers recommended procedures for Rheem Thermosiphon solar water- heating systems. The procedures are essential for correct installation, troubleshooting and maintenance.

Read each section of this manual thoroughly before beginning work on the system.

!CAUTION: Changes to the design or intended use of the Rheem Thermosiphon System will void the manufacturers warranty. Installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance must be performed by a qualified technician.

This manual will help you get the most out of your solar water heating system. Please read it carefully when the installation is complete, and review it from time to time to refresh your memory about the service requirements and safety measures.

The Operation section of the manual contains important information regarding the system procedures as well as safety measures pertaining to the system. It is important that you follow these guidelines to ensure safe, efficient and trouble-free operation.

While the system requires very little maintenance, there will be a periodic need for some upkeep. The Maintenance section outlines those requirements for service, which you may do yourself, as well as those procedures best performed by a qualified service technician.

The Troubleshooting section contains steps you can take if the system is not performing, as it should.

The solar energy system described by this manual, when properly installed and maintained, meets the minimum standards established by the Solar Rating and Certification Corporation (SRCC). This certification does not imply endorsement or warranty of this product by the SRCC.

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.

Your passive solar water heating system is one of the most efficient yet simple and trouble free water- heating systems in the world.

The components of the system include a water storage tank, solar collector panels, and a assortment of pipes and valves.

In locations which are subject to temperatures below 41°F, a mixture of specially developed Hartgard fluid and water circulates through the solar collector panels. This fluid is heated by the sun, then circulated through the jacket surrounding the water storage tank, heating the potable (drinking) water inside the storage tank.

The Hartgard fluid is a non-toxic, food-grade liquid, which provides freeze protection for the closed loop heat transfer loop. It is colored blue to differentiate the closed loop fluid from the potable water supply.

!WARNING: Under no circumstances can any fluid other than Hartgard be used, alternate fluids could be hazardous to your health.

This circulation of the Hartgard fluid is accomplished naturally, without the need for pumps, sensors or any moving parts. No moving parts mean fewer potential problems. These solar water heaters are referred to as closed loop systems and identified in the model number by the last two digits.

Your how water is stored in a steel tank lined with two coats of Primaglaze® vitreous enamel (glass) and thickly insulated to help maintain the water temperature throughout the day and night.

To ensure your hot water supply is never depleted, the system is equipped with a backup heater or heating element. On the few days a year when there may be insufficient solar energy, you are still assured of all the hot water you will need.

If your system is your only source of hot water, there is one way to ensure a constant supply.

a. You can leave the breaker ON all of the time and the heater will operate only when the water temperature falls below the thermostat temperature

setpoint 3