
Collectors for
Glycol
System
The above picture shows "building integrated" collector panels
used in a glycol based system. A glycol based system has the following
characteristics and advantages:
- Less danger of freezing than with a drainback system
that
is NOT installed by a professional solar installer/designer.
- Somewhat simpler pipe runs to/from collectors (don't
have to worry about tilt).
- Because of lower circulator "head" requirements, the
circulator can easily be run by a photovoltaic panel, resulting in a
"true zero energy use" system.
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Solar Storage Tank
with
Glycol Pump Station
The above picture shows
the
control panel and storage tank for a glycol based system. Be aware of
the following on glycol based systems:
- Excess heat created in the summertime must be managed
in
order to minimize damage to glycol.
- Heat
dumps, hot tubs, etc can be used to "dump" the excess heat; or you can
build an overhanging "shade" structure to cover part of the panels in
summertime.
- Never use a pure makeup water connection into a
glycol
based system. Makeup water systems are good for the boiler plumbing,
but not for solar systems, as they can cause dilution of glycol
solution, and subsequent freezing of the panels.
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