Air in returns from solar after start up each time.

[haybird]

Hello,

I have read here that you should let your panels drain after use, to prevent damage.

When I let them drain I get about 1 minute of air blowing through the returns on start-up.
Can the air in the lines do damage? I can feel the vibrations on my feet when I stand near
the returns. Its loud and I feel a little nervous.
Thanks!!

 

[DaveNJ]

Do you have an Air Purge Valve in your solar setup. More information about your setup would help.

 

[haybird]

Not that I can see. Would it be near the valve to turn on the solar?
Is it like the valve on an air compressor that lets the air out?

I guess my question is it normal to have that much air in the lines?

My panels are roof mounted on to different roofs, with a (forget the name)at
the highest point to alow for drainage. I have a total of 9 12x2's. They are on a
25' run from the pump and about 15' up.

Thanks

 

[DaveNJ]

This link is an illustration of parts of solar setup. I called it a air purge, or vacuum relief valve.

 

[haybird]

I don't see the link. Thats what I have at the highest point is a vacuum
releif valve. I forgot the name till I read it here.
Thanks

 

[Wolfmarsh]

That is normal.

When your solar shuts off, the vacumn breaker will allow the panels to drain (and fill with air).

WHen the pump starts pushing water through the panels, the vacumn breaker closes and the air has to go somewhere, so through your returns it is .

Shouldn't harm a thing.

 

[haybird]

When you put it that way it makes perfect sence. I guess I am a nervous Nancy.
Thanks for the replies.

 

[DaveNJ]

Sorry about the link:
http://www.powermat.com/

 

[dayhiker]

Freaked me out too at first. The only way to prevent it was to change things over to non solar operation just before the pump timer cuts off which defeats the purpose of the timer so I decided that it must just be the way it had to be.