Information for Installers

 

In order to become a dealer or installer of Bubbling Springs Solar's collectors, we request that you provide the following information:

• Proof of Insurance
• License or certification
  • Example: NABCEP, Focus on Energy, or Plumber's License
• Tax ID number
• Number of years in solar industry or related business.

Maintenance Guidelines

Handling

• Lifting of the collector should always be performed by two or more people.
  
• Never lift the collector by the header pipes. The collector must be lifted by the perimeter frame.
• The collector should be supported evenly to avoid excessive torque or twisting.
  
• Care must be taken to avoid damage to the relatively thin sheet aluminum backing.
  
• Do not rest or drag the collector over sharp or protruding objects.

Storage

• The collectors should be stored lying flat and supported evenly at all four corners.
• The collectors should be off the ground and out of harm's way.
  
• If collectors are to be stacked they should sit squarely on each other and be separated by foam blocks.
  • The weight should be transferred from frame to frame as the collectors are stacked; no weight should be placed on collector glass.
    
• Header pipes should be sealed to prevent entry of foreign matter.
  
• Collectors may also be stored standing on edge provided that a few basic rules are followed:
• Bottom of the collectors are resting on wood or foam blocks at or near the corners.
• No weight is supported by header pipes.
• Collectors are leaning on a strong uniform surface and set at enough of an angle to prevent them from tipping over.
• Foam blocks or similar spacers are placed between collectors.

Maintenance

The heat transfer fluid should be checked at least once per year for proper pH; 7.5 or above is an acceptable pH level. While rain usually keeps solar collectors clean, it may be necessary to periodically clean the exterior surface of the collector glass. Clean the solar glass as if it was a window, avoiding methods that could scratch glass. For best results, do not clean surface of glass while the collector is hot.

Damaged Glass

In the case of broken solar glass, protect the absorber by placing a sheet of 1/2-inch thick plywood over the opening until repairs can be made.