Solar Collector Burn Hazards

Solar water heaters are becoming increasingly more popular in both residential buildings and commercial facilities. When the demand for a service rises, so will injuries in installing and maintaining that product.

Stay safe during installations and general maintenance calls by understanding the risks of serious burns from solar collectors, especially those connected to a water heating system.

Don’t Get Burned! The risk of burns when installing or servicing solar systems is great not only because of the excessive temperatures involved in the process, but because of the high pressures associated with water heating. Make sure all appropriate protective equipment is always in good working condition and being utilized properly.

Be aware that solar collector burns may occur when:

• Fluid applied to a hot solar system flashes and quickly turns to steam
  To prevent this hazard, wear the proper personal protective equipment (PPE). This includes face, eye and hand protection, especially when working in close proximity to the panels.
  Of course, the safest solution is to avoid situations where fluid comes into contact with heat in the first place. For example, when the panels need to be cleaned after a long period without heavy rain, do not spray them while they are still hot. Wait until early morning or late evening when the modules are cooler, though keep in mind it may take several hours for cooling to occur.

• Opening relief valves, charging closed circuits and filling storage tanks
  Steam or hot water may quickly escape in these situations, potentially burning the face or upper body. Practice extreme caution when performing these tasks and always wear the advised PPE.

• Solar collectors heat the water in the storage tank to temperatures higher than the thermostat setting
  Though water in the storage tank may seem to be a relatively safe temperature, oftentimes the water in the tank is hotter than the thermostat indicates.
  The best practice to eliminate the risk of scald injury is to play it safe – always assume the water, or any part of the solar system, is dangerously hot. Wear gloves when you know there is a chance you may come into contact with the storage tank water.

•  You touch the solar collector manifoldsIt is true that most of the collector can be handled safely with bare hands. However, the collector manifolds are parts that can become intensely hot. Because of this, it is a good idea to wear gloves when conducting any work on the panel.

This flyer is for general informational purposes only, and is not intended as medical or legal advice. © 2007 – 2010 Zywave, Inc. All rights reserved.