Solar water heating systems usually require very little maintenance. However, if you do that little bit of maintenance the system can last 50% to 100% longer. The recommended schedule is an annual service and a major tuneup every 5 years.
Annual Service
There are two parts to the annual service, tank/panel flush to eliminate buildup of calcites and dirt and system inspection. The flushing method depends on which part of the island you live in. If you live in a part of the island with a lot of dirt in the water the Complete Flush is needed each year. For most of the island only the Short Flush is needed for years 1 – 4 and the Complete Flush every 5 years.
Short Flush of the tank and solar panels.
- Attach a hose to the hose bib located at the bottom of the tank. Place the other end of the hose in a place where it can drain. Be careful not to damage plants with hot water. We usually place the hose end in a white bucket. Open the hose bib and flush for 2 minutes or until clear. Repeat this on the 2nd tank if you have a 2 tank system.
- Attach a hose to the hose bib located on the pipe that returns water from the solar panels to the tank (the one without a pump on it). Open the hose bib and flush for 2 minutes or until clear.
Complete Flush of the tank and solar panels
- Turn off the circuit breakers that power the water heater.
- Unplug the solar pump.
- Attach a hose to the hose bib located at the bottom of the tank. Place the other end of the hose lower than the bottom of the tank, in a place where it can drain without damaging anything. Open the hose bib and flush for 2 minutes or until clear.
- Turn off the 3/4” valve that supplies cold water to the tank. Open a hot water faucet somewhere in the house to allow air into the tank. Leave the hose bib open until the tank drains completely.
- Open the 3/4” cold water supply valve for a few minutes to stir up more dirt. Close the cold water supply valve and let the water drain out. Repeat this until the water is clean.
- Turn off the hose bib and open the 3/4” cold water supply valve to start the tank filling up.
- Attach a hose to the hose bib located on the pipe that returns water from the solar panels to the tank (the one without a pump on it). Open the hose bib and flush for 2 minutes or until clear.
- Close the hose bib and remove the hose.
Yearly System Inspection
Check for:
- Evidence of water leakage from tank, pipes, panels, or relief valve. Check the pipe/tank connections carefully. Cut the black pipe insulation back if necessary. Leaks in these locations are common and can destroy your tank.
- Proper system operation (pump running in day time only, enough hot water, electric bill still down).
- Loose wires and wire connections.
- Tightness of panel mounting bolts – try to lift or push panels to make sure they are secure.
- Dirt on panels – clean if necessary.
- Cracked insulation – replace or paint it as necessary.
If you are unable for any reason to do this yourself and need assistance, call a solar company that specializes in maintenance. Contact ECA for suggestions.
Major Tune-up
We recommend a Major Tune-up be performed every 5 years by a solar service company which includes the following:
- Check system operation
- wash the panel glass
- inspect the entire system for leaks
- inspect insulation; sensors and wiring
- flush heater tank
- flush solar panels
- inspect system design
- replace the tank anode rod
- paint the roof insulation
- inspect all caulked areas & re-calk where necessary.
Note: The magnesium anode rod slowly erodes away, sacrificing itself protecting your expensive tank. Sometime after 5 years it is totally gone and the tank starts corroding and leaks. It is very important to have it changed out regularly.