Solar pumping station

[Paulb2337]

Seen this a couple of times any idea what causes it.

 

[townfanjon]

Is there HTF in the system ? Where are you based ?

 

[Old Account]

I've see few it times too. Its definitely glycol ( never seen it on any other heat transfer fluid) mixture which has leaked. The antifreeze fluids degrade over time therefore it should be changed every 3-5 years. I guess the ratio was 60/40 but not too sure though.

But good question of @townfanjon regarding the HTF

 

[snowhead]

Looks like 2 plain and simple leaks on joints.

 

[Paulb2337]

Seen this a couple of times any idea what causes it.

View attachment 29645

View attachment 29646

Based in Gosport

 

[Paulb2337]

Is there HTF in the system ? Where are you based ?

Don't know if HTF in system, asked to look at problem and refill but not willing to increase pressure with this problem. I am based in Gosport Hands.

 

[townfanjon]

If its a professionaly installed system I am sure it will , but knowing hardwater areas seem to be prone to crud it makes me wonder !! Pressure looks too low anyway so its going to need attention soon.

 

[Paulb2337]

Is there HTF in the system ? Where are you based ?

Yes definitely HTF in system checked it.recommended to change pumping station, repressurise system and book in for service next year.

Thanks for your help

 

[Worcester]

We see it all the time, def leaking glycol, not necessarily a problem, and pump station could be fine - especially at the cost of replacement.
Not seen one quite that bad though.
Could be a simple case of stripping apart and re-doing the joints with proper joint sealant rather than jet blue / boss white which aren't rated for the temperature that solar systems get to.
Definitely should be drained, flushed and replenished with new glycol, purge and re-pressurised. - Als0 check the PRV and expansion vessel - they are often installed incorrectly - about 75% of system that aren't ours that we go to fix are not installed in accordance with the standards - and none of them have ever been serviced!

 

[Paulb2337]

We see it all the time, def leaking glycol, not necessarily a problem, and pump station could be fine - especially at the cost of replacement.
Not seen one quite that bad though.
Could be a simple case of stripping apart and re-doing the joints with proper joint sealant rather than jet blue / boss white which aren't rated for the temperature that solar systems get to.
Definitely should be drained, flushed and replenished with new glycol, purge and re-pressurised. - Als0 check the PRV and expansion vessel - they are often installed incorrectly - about 75% of system that aren't ours that we go to fix are not installed in accordance with the standards - and none of them have ever been serviced!

Thanks for that, what jointing compound do you recommend

 

[Worcester]

Thanks for that, what jointing compound do you recommend

I think it's this: Slic-Tite® Paste with PTFE - 240ml - 22886 | BES.co.uk
rated to 260°C I'll get the guys to check in the van tomorrow. If not then the tub looks very similar