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Home > Research > Solar Thermal > SWAP > Ten Years After > Lee Area Site #383

Site 383

System type: Pumped - differential controller
Installed: 1996
Inspected: 2004
System is still working as installed.

Doubtful, efficiency wise. Bottom feed - bottom return strategy used on installed 40-gallon water heater that is mounted on a shelf in the garage. Unless the bottom feed – return plumbing has internal and separate tubes for the feed and return lines, this system could be recirculation water solely in the collector loop line and bypassing the water heater.

The controller and sensors test indicated that there were no problems with the controller and sensors. Sensors gave reasonable measurements. Controller was checked with manufacturer’s controller tester.

The collector and mounting look good. Installer used short external runs for the piping - ideal. External insulation is well protected with metallic tape.