Solar Panel Connection layout

[NWMNMom]

I called this morning and he said they actually don't sell the 4x20 single and that they just use the photo from the mfg because they didn't have a photo of 2 of the 2x20s assembled. So, I guess we can make do if we have to. We have already had to send back a box that was damaged when it arrived.

Our thoughts on install - because of the limited sun (shadeless) area south of the pool area, we thought of mounting them on posts as shown in diagram attached just to the north of the pool (diagram shows distance between but will actually be about 2-3' north of pool in front of pine tree row) So, would this layout be efficient? We used a diverter on the single panel we had before for the 18' round, thought we should keep that in the loop. This setup gives us about 40 or so feet of panel area - the total space available is only 54' from east to west. I believe these all have the internal loop in the panels that force the water from the inlet at the bottom to the end then back to the front of the panel out the top. I know the single one does and it is the same brand as the new set.

Feedback? other suggestions?

[tphaggerty]

Nice diagram. I see 2 potential problems that might not really be problems but you should think about.

First, the pressure drop across the right set of panels is going to be twice what it is across the left panel. Not sure what the result might be, but "smooth flow" through a solar system makes it more efficient.

Second, the water entering the 2nd panel on the left (in series) is already heated, my guess is that the 2nd panel is not going to be as efficient. Any type of heater works best when the tempature differential is as great as possible.

Seems like it would add only a little to split your input into 3 streams to feed each panel, then join all three on the return side. I think it would balance the system a lot better and the pressure differential across all 3 panels would be the same.

[NWMNMom]

You mean make the T into a "Tree" so that all three panels get an input feed and all three go to output. This can be done, just will require a longer feed from the "Tree" to the third panel and longer output from Left bottom panel to output "Tree" - all due to layout and space limitations. White PVC schedule 40? or the gray PVC?

This setup could end up adding a 4th panel at some point if we don't get enough warm water from this, but I think with a normal summer, we should be able to do fine with the three panels.

The pool prep, planning and the maintc is my "baby" - the hubby just helps with the grunt work and relaxes in it when its ready. Thanks - getting this straight in my head by running it past others really helps.

[tphaggerty]

I think that is what I would do. But, the company you bought these from must have some plans, suggestions for multiple panels. What do they say?

[NWMNMom]

Its a pool supply, they don't really offer any help here. They suggested we roof mount, when I told them how far away and that it would have to cross a driving area, it was Hmmm, don't know. I like my post mount idea, just needed to have someone tell me I'm not crazy and to help me get efficiency tuned up. Thank you so much.