Materials and Tools List to Self-install

Materials

• Panels 
  • Number and size to be determined
• Controls
  • Manual or Automatic 
    • If manual, we recommend using a 2" Compool or Jandy 3-way valve for the solar diverter valve
• PVC Piping (2" Sch. 40)
  • Length to be determined 
  • Avoid flex PVC - even in the ground
• Fittings
  • An assortment of 90s, street 90s (ftg. x slip), 45s, couplings, reducer bushings, and tees
• Valves (PVC)
  • Two ball valves for isolation of solar loop
    • Necessary if pool equipment operated at all during winter
  • Another check valve after filter if DE (diatomaceous) filter used
    • Can also use check valve to keep panels full all season
      • Easier on pump
  • Drain valves or hose bibbs as needed to protect panels and piping from freeze damage
• PVC glue and primer (clear glue and primer mask drips and splatters)
• Lag bolts (1/4" x ?) depending on surface type
• Mastic sealant (Henrys 208 or equivalent) in tubes
• Pipe clamps - two hole "rigid" conduit clamps
• Screws (assorted) to use with clamps and to mount control box
• Sensor wire - 18-22 gauge, two conductor, double insulated stranded wire (similar to bell wire).  It is best to use a PVC jacketed wire for UV protection.  Available at Home Depot.  If any wire is going in a trench it should be in 1/2" conduit.
• Wire nuts and silicone sealant various sizes (Yellow, blue, gray)
• Cable ties-11" (black)
• Paint for UV exposed PVC (black or color of roof and walls)

Tools

• 5/16" nut-driver or flat screwdriver
• 7/16" socket and drill adapter
• Drill - cordless or corded as long as it has enough torque to drive lag bolts
• PVC saw or hacksaw
• Wire strippers
• Drill bits as needed
• 3 1/8" hole saw if penetrating roof eave using 2" PVC
• Small screwdriver 1/8" for sensor wire connections to control
• Caulking gun
• Measuring tape
• Ladder
• Knife of razor knife
• Shovel if trenching
• Hammer and nails if needed

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Page last updated: May 28, 2014