Quote Originally Posted by mas985 View Post
I'm still not sure if you have a VRV or not. A true VRV will allow the panels to drain on their own when the pump is off so nothing is required. However, if you need to open a port to allow the panels to drain, then yes a manual drain is necessary. You might consider installing a real VRV so you don't have to worry about it.

The VRV that I have is attached to the panels by a rubber couple and hose clamps. It is about the same size as the 1 1/2" panel header pipe where it attaches to the panel and then tapers outward to approx 2 1/2-3" on the other end. The larger end has holes in it. Inside that part that tapers bigger it has a plastic flap. When the panels have water flowing thru it, the plastic flap pushes tight to the end with the holes in it, which stops water from shooting out that end of the panel. When the water flow to the panels is turned off, the plastic flap will slide down, allowing air into the panels, and allowing the panels to drain. I think this is a true VRV.

It sounds like I don't need to remove this at all for winterizing, is that correct???

What else can you tell me about winterizing these panels???