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Sun Volt Solar

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We are at a cross roads in human history, we can choose to continue on as we have been, or we can make a change to improve our future and quite possibly the future for several generations to come. We are here to promote energy independence, a better environment, a secure future and a higher return on investment for your hard earned dollar. It is what I believe in, it is why I am in the solar business.

Can plastic piping be used in a solar hot water system?

12 May 09 | Solar Hot Water, Training, solar thermal

Short answer: Don’t do it.

Plastic piping such as PEX, PEX AL PEX, PVC, ABS, etc. can be safely used with hot water systems, radiant floor heating and so forth.  It is much cheaper and usually easier to work with than copper or stainless steel.  That being said, it is not appropriate for use in any solar thermal application.

Solar thermal systems have much less control over high temperatures than conventional fossil fuel based systems.  Summer time collector stagnation temperatures can easily reach 300° F.  At these temperatures any plastic piping will melt.  This will cause the Heat Transfer Fluid (HTF) to leak creating a big mess and likely an insurance claim.  The only type if piping that should be used in a collector loop is copper or stainless steel.

Even copper fittings with rubber gaskets (AKA Pro-Press or Viega fittings) are only rated for 250° F.  They should not be used in a solar loop either.

It is worth the extra time, effort and expense to solder copper piping and or purchase stainless steel tubing for use in the solar loop.  This will ensure that the system works well for years to come with no leaks and no call backs.

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12 May 09 | Solar Hot Water, Training, solar thermal | Comments (0)