SunSaver ST--top	SunSaver ST--Bottom	SunSaver ST specifications - front
SunSaver ST specifications - back	ST mounting bracket used on upper header	ST bracket on upper header

The SunSaver ST™ panel, formally called Solotube, is a specially developed, highly stabilized polyolefin and is of parallel, circular channels design with separated tubes.  The tubes are held apart and off the mounting surface by integrated framework every foot or so along the panel length (see pictures above).   Since the wind load on this panel is reduced by this open design; allowing wind to flow through it, there is no need for the "belly-band" strapping necessary on the other panel designs dramatically reducing mounted hardware requirements and thus roof penetrations.  Unfortunately, this open design also allows for more surface area exposure to convection cooling and a slightly reduced collection area resulting in lower performance per square foot per day than SunSaver (860 vs 1014 BTU per square foot).

• 860 BTUs per square foot per day.  This lower efficiency, relative to the SunSaver (1014) or Revolution (1063) panels, is due to more exposed surface area of the panel tubes and slightly reduced wetted surface. 
• Also, 25% higher cost than SunSaver panels due to lower production and demand. 
• 12 year full warranty.
•  Special order only; not stocked or generally recommended in most climates

Installation procedure (same as SunSaver without "belly band" straps)

Review Panel Installation but replace #3 "Secure panels to their mounting surface" with the following:

UPPER HEADER BRACKET (OR STRAPS)

• Lay the panels on the surface you want them mounted
• Slide ST bracket onto panel upper header.
  • It's a tight fit so be persistent
  • You can also use short Dacron straps and tie-down cleats at the upper header couplers if you want instead of using the ST bracket.
• Position the bracket over rafter or roof location where you want to install a bolt.
  • Follow procedure for your particular surface or roof material
• Put sealant on roof under bracket
• Secure bracket to roof
  • Do likewise for all panels

LOWER-HEADER STRAPS

• For ST panels, the lower-header straps are absolutely necessary.
  • Made of flexible vinyl to allow for panel expansion and contraction
  • No knots required
  • Simply wrap one around the rubber couplers on the lower header and secure with a standard tie-down cleat, mastic, and 1/4" bolt.  Use as needed.
    • Between every panel in windier environments
    • Between every other panel if wind is less an issue

Standard bottom-header strap	Bottom-header strap on pipe between two panels

 

 

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 Page last updated: May 28, 2014