Components of the Xolarator
Collectors
The collectors are discussed in detail on the Features of the Xolarator page.
Control Panel
The control panel is discussed in detail on the Controls of the Xolarator page.
Collector Anchors
Each collector gets four anchors, two on each header. The anchor is in two halves — upper and lower. The lower half bolts to the roof rafters, giving the installation a structural support that is strong. The upper half is slide/lock and slides in from the side and over the header to lock into position with the lower half. This two-part anchor, while one of the strongest available, is also easy to install and allows for small side-to-side adjustment of the collectors during installation.
(Flexible Connections
The basic plumbing connection components for the system are made from top-quality schedule 40 and schedule 80 PVC, stainless steel, and poly-reinforced rubber hose. The collectors are bound together into a single water flow system that brings the solar heat down into the pool. Because of the design and tests these components have been through, you will experience no failures and no leaks. You will notice that the collector connection point and the plumbing adapter are grooved to more reliably seal with the 3 inch hose connector and hose clamp. Not only is this arrangement very reliable and durable, but it allows the system to flex with temperature changes throughout the year. Other brands are rigidly connected and cannot flex with changing seasons, cracking and ultimately leaking as a result of the rigid connection points.
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Vacuum Relief Valve Assembly
This group of components is installed on the upper header of the topmost panel or end panel in the top row of collectors. It gives your system protection against freezing. When the system is off, the vacuum relief valve allows water still in the collectors to drain from the system back into the pool by the force of gravity. The panels will not be damaged in freezing conditions because the water has drained.
(view larger)
From left to right: the collector, the flex hose with stainless steel bands, the threaded endcap, and the vacuum relief valve.