​Jack Frost is on his way is your Solar Frost Valve working?

Freezing temperatures are almost upon us, we have taken a few calls and emails regards replacement frost valves for solar hot water systems. We have answered a couple of common questions below which should help you out.

Q. What types of solar hot water systems require a solar frost valve?

A. There are two main types of solar hot water systems available on the market, Flat plate collectors and Evacuated tubes collectors. Flat Plate collectors using "open loop" usually require frost valves. Flat plate collectors using "closed loop" or "glycol" do not require frost valves. The majority of evacuated tubes solar hot water systems do not require a solar frost vale due to their design, but please check with your manufacturer.

Q. Do I need to maintain the solar frost valve?

A. The frost protection valve has small water ways and may be prone to a build up of sludge when installed at the lower connection fitting of a solar collector. AVG recommends checking and cleaning at regular intervals to prevent valve malfunction and possible damage to the solar collector panel. The collectors will need to be flushed out on a regular basis with frequency determined by the water quality.

While the frost valves are normally installed at the bottom of the collector, they can be installed at the top to stop the build up of sludge entering the frost valve. Please note that in extreme frost prone areas this can possibly leave the bottom of the panel susceptible to freezing and certain manufacturers will not cover warranty if installed at the top of the panel.

Q. How long does a solar frost valve last?

A. The length of life of the frost valve would depend on the frequency of use and water quality.

Q. Which locations require a solar frost valve?

A. To remove the guess work have a look at the map below which details the Potential Frost Days Annually throughout Australia.

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If you have any questions please contact us