1 Response to " Solar Insulation "

1. admin says:

   May 8, 2009 at 10:02 am

   Dirk,

   Solar Insulation is an often overlooked part of a solar install, but a very important issue. Be aware that regular Polyurethane pipe insulation is not suitable as it can’t handle the high temperatures of a solar water system.

   Any outside piping must have a weather proof membrane or it will deteriorate under the sun and rain. You can use aluminum duct tape on the outside or purchase PVC tubes to run the solar piping through

   Another important issue is the thickness or R-Value. Obviously the thicker the insulation the better performance your entire system will see.

   There is specially designed solar insulated piping that is both high temperature rated and has a special outdoor protective coating surronding the lines. The Time Saver Solar Piping (TSP), uses special high temperature 3/4″ PEX piping and comes with two lines that are heavily insullated and completely weather proof (can even be burried underground). The collector sensor wire is pre-installed. This solar piping greatly reduces the installation time, extends the life of the system, increases performance and because it is a continous single tube, has virtually no chance of developing leaks.