Guidelines for Successful Solar Thermal Water Heating Installation

The purchase of a Solar Thermal Water Heating system is an investment in your home and your energy future. So, be sure to follow these general guidelines and visit the associated links to help you make an informed decision on the selection and installation of your Solar Thermal Water Heating system.

1. Choose a contractor that has experience installing and servicing the type of system you want.
   Visit these resources to help you locate a contractor in your area.
• The Florida Solar Energy Industries Association provides a list of member contractors across the state and includes their contractor license number. www.flaseia.org/dir.htm
• Find Solar allows you to enter your zip code and generates a list of contractors. Contractors will be listed under the Residential and Commercial tabs as well as the “Other Installers In This Area” section. Be sure to verify that the contractor is licensed. Licensing information is not listed on this site. www.findsolar.com
2. Ensure your contractor has a valid plumber’s and/or solar license.
   Contractors with the following licenses can install Solar Thermal Water Heating systems: Solar Contractor (CV), Specialty Solar (CW), Plumbing Contractor (CF), Local Solar License (RX). To search for contractors by license type as well as verify that contractor licenses are current and valid, visit www.myfloridalicense.com.
3. Verify the system your contractor plans to install has been certified by the Florida Solar Energy Center.
   The State of Florida requires that all solar water and pool heating systems that are sold or manufactured in Florida meet standards established by the Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC). Visit the following web-site for a list of FSEC certified systems: www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/industry/testing/STsystems/ratings/index.htm.
4. Ensure your Solar Thermal Water Heating system has adequate freeze protection for this area of Florida.
   Freeze protection is an absolute must for any solar system because a single freeze can destroy a collector. Florida Solar Energy Center standards require that all solar systems be designed and installed with two freeze protection methods. Discuss these strategies and any instructions for the homeowner with your contractor. This information should be posted on a label affixed to a prominent location on the solar system (usually the storage tank) and should be included in your system operation and maintenance manual.
5. Before installing your Solar Thermal Water Heating system, be sure your contractor does the following:
• Evaluates your site's solar resource.
  The efficiency and design of a Solar Thermal Water Heating system depends on how much of the sun’s energy reaches your home. The ideal location for solar collectors is typically in unshaded areas facing South. Your contractor should perform a solar site analyses to determine the ideal location for your system.
• Sizes your system appropriately.
  Sizing your Solar Thermal Water Heating system basically involves determining the total collector area and the storage volume you’ll need to meet 90%–100% of your household’s hot water needs during the summer. Your contractor should size your system based on a number of factors including the number of people in your household, your home’s solar resource, and the location and angle of your system. www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/publications/pdf/FSEC-GP-10-R01.pdf
• Complies with all local codes, covenants, and regulations.
  Most jurisdictions require a building permit to install a solar system on your rooftop. Getting any required permits should be the responsibility of your contractor and should be included in your contract. If in doubt, contact the local building department about inspection and permitting requirements.
• Discusses the maintenance requirements for your Solar Thermal Water Heating system with you.
  Solar systems require periodic inspections and routine maintenance to keep them operating efficiently; and occasionally, components may need repair or replacement. You might be able to handle some of the inspections and maintenance tasks on your own, but others may require a qualified technician. Be sure to consult the system owner’s manual.

For additional information on Solar Thermal Water Heating systems, visit the Florida Solar Energy Center web site at www.fsec.ucf.edu/en/consumer/solar_hot_water/index.htm