Class Description

This course is a continuation of Introduction to Solar Thermal Systems, S 102 and provides an overview of the design and installation of solar thermal systems used for domestic hot water production and swimming pool heating. It includes a full system installation lab and multiple design problems. Course content includes:

• Plumbing basics and an introduction to prevailing codes and best practices
• Instruction regarding permitting, inspection, commissioning, documentation and labeling requirements and system maintenance practices and procedures.
• Safety practices and proper use of tools
• Load estimation and system sizing
• Collector mounting techniques
• System layout and installation methods

Prerequisites

Prerequisite coursework: Introduction to Solar Thermal Technology, S102 No solar industry experience is assumed, but solar industry experience may substitute for coursework prerequisite. Knowledge requirements include basic math skills (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, and percentages, use of formulas, algebra and word problems), use of the Internet, problem solving skills, and the use of a calculator.

Course Objectives

Upon Completion of this course, the student will have the ability to:

• Analyze load demands and calculate system requirements
• Conduct a site survey and specify system components and design
• Calculate collector and storage tank size for domestic hot water systems
• Determine structural integrity and suitability for installation of SHC systems
• Describe various mounting systems and perform mounting procedures of collectors and plumbing components
• Demonstrate proper pipe soldering techniques
• Demonstrate proper placement and connection of system components
• Perform commissioning, maintenance, and troubleshooting procedures for installed systems
• Demonstrate proper and safe use of required tools and measurement instruments necessary to conduct a thorough site survey and system installation
• Describe inspection, permitting and documentation requirements
• Describe risks and relevant safety issues and OSHA regulations

Student Evaluation

Student performance is evaluated on the basis of:

• Class participation
• Lab participation
• Completion of assignments
• Attendance

Attendance Policy

It is expected that students will attend scheduled classes regularly and on time. If an absence occurs, it is the responsibility of the student to make up all missed work. Students, who must withdraw from a class, will receive credit for work completed and may complete the course at a later date with instructor approval. Attendance will be tracked and maintained for various reporting purposes.

Accreditation and Evaluation

The curriculum for this course is based on the NABCEP Solar Thermal Installer Job Task Analysis and the course is accredited by the Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC) according to standards set by the Institute for Sustainable Power Quality (ISPQ) Assessment Framework. In keeping with the standards of this accreditation, students are encouraged to provide informal feedback throughout the course. A survey is distributed to students on the last day of class whereby students are asked to evaluate the class and the instructor. This feedback is used to create an on-going professional development plan for instructors and to inform course improvements.

Students with Disabilities

This institution complies with Section 504 and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Students with disabilities who seek accommodations must make their requests knows when registering for a course or workshop. If a disability is identified after class has begun, a non-retroactive accommodation plan will be developed.