System Operation

How can I tell if my solar system is working? Since you still have an electric element in your storage tank, you can turn off the breaker to your water heater to see how much hot water you are getting just from the sun. Some contractors install a simple light switch near the tank to turn if off. If your system has a pump, it will have an indicator light when it is running. If it is running during a sunny day, this is a good indication the system is working correctly. If it is running at night, call your contractor. I am running out of hot water, what should I do? Has it been cloudy? Have you used more hot water than usual? If yes, you may need to be sure that your water heater's electric element is turned on. Check your breaker box, or if there is a separate switch that the contractor installed, make sure they are in the “on” position. If this doesn't solve the problem, call your contractor. My water is too hot, what should I do? You may want to check the temperature setting of your water heater electric element. Progress Energy recommends a set point of 120 degrees or lower. If it is properly set, you can ask your contractor if a “tempering” or “anti-scald” valve was installed with your system. If not, you might want to request they install one. If one was installed, ask the contractor to check the temperature setting as it may be set too high. The weather report is calling for freeze or frost tonight. What should I do to make sure my solar water heater doesn't freeze? You shouldn't have to do anything, since solar water heaters come with automatic freeze protection. Review the owner's manual provided by your solar contractor. If you have any questions call your contractor. Water is pouring off my roof! What should I do? If the outside temperature is near or below freezing, your freeze valve may be draining the water out of the collector. This is normal. If this is not the case, call your contractor as soon as possible. My neighbor's tree is shading my collector. What can I do? Contact the Florida Solar Energy Research and Education Foundation at solarinfo@flaseref.org or 1.800.59SOLAR. I am having trouble getting my solar contractor to service my system. What can I do? Contact the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association bruce@flaseia.org or 1-800.426.5899.