Common Problems With Solar Water Pumps – And Some Fixes
1. The Water Pump Does Not Start Up
A solar water pump is a complex device. There are many reasons why the solar pump might not be working properly – here are some things you can try.
First, examine the voltage of your system. You should check the voltage at pressure switches, control boxes and other components of the system consuming power.
Examine the Pressure Switch to see if there are any discoloration, deformities, melted parts etc. Check the tube and nipple leading to the switch to see if there are any discoloration, deformities, melted parts or sediment.
Examine the Control Panel. Look for obvious signs of deterioration. Check with Walker Environmental – You may even be able to get a new one for less than it would cost to replace it.
Check The Motor and Pump: If none of the above solutions work, it is probably time to consider replacing the pump/motor.
2. Faults With the Low Well Sensor
The low well sensor needs to be working correctly, be correctly connected to the controller and be correctly located in the water.
Fix: Confirm that your sensor is underwater and then reset the system.
3. Low Water Delivery
When you operate your solar water pump, you should make sure that it is not affected by any obstructions that can cast a shadow on it. Even shadows thrown by passing people, vehicles etc can decrease your water production.
Poor quality manufacturing can also be a major issue. The cause of the issue can be in the manufacturing stage, in the transportation stage, or in the installation stage.
These issues can cause a loss of power, and as a result, a loss in water production. It is recommended that you have an expert Water Pump company like Walker Environmental install your water tank.
To improve things, you need to consider the environment of the pump site. Ensure that you avoid places where there are lots of foot traffic or vehicles. You will also need to clear overhanging vegetation that may be blocking access to parts of the panel.
Look for any cracks or abnormalities in the cells.
4. Water Supply Runs Continuously
The pipe supplying the water to the building may be broken. It may be leaking, or it may be that the pipe is blocked. In addition, check that the riser pipe check valve is not open.
Here are some of the troubleshooting steps you can take:
• It is important to check for puddles, this is a tell-tale sign of the leak location.
• Check if there is any water coming into the house. If there is not, this could be a sign of a leak in the line to the house. If this is the case, then you will need to check the line and fix it. If there is a problem with the check valve, it needs to be repaired or replaced – Call Walker Environmental to get it fixed quickly.
5. The Solar Panel “Tilt Angle” Is Triggering Erratic Water Flow
If you do not create the right angle when installing solar panels, you can lose significant amounts of the energy you are trying to capture. The angle of the surface area of the solar panel is therefore crucial.
The angle of your pump can be adjusted according to the time of year and the latitude.
6. Damage To Pump Mechanisms
Helical rotors are prone to overheating and even melting; this can happen if the stator is operating outside of water. If the build-up of debris in the well accumulates, it wears out the stator. Over time, wear and tear will also impair these devices.
Solution To This Problem: You will have to replace the pumping mechanism.
7. Moisture Inside a PV Panel
Moisture can cause problems if it enters the panels. Moisture can cause corrosion and can decrease the efficiency of the panels. Make sure you check the panels frequently.
Moisture on the outside of the panels will cause the panels to be less efficient. The moisture will reduce the amount of light that gets through the solar panel, reducing the amount of energy it can absorb. Humidity can also cause this.
Solution
If you have a solar panel then you should ensure that it is firmly secured, preventing damage by the wind or other hazards. A solar panel should be installed with the venting apertures facing up. This is so that there is a constant flow of air through the panels. It will prevent the build-up of moisture and condensation in the panels.
There are a number of ways to improve your panel’s performance. A backsheet with the appropriate venting/insulating properties will improve the performance of the panel. Cleaning the glass and debris off the exterior will also improve the performance of the panel.
Installing Properly – If you do everything right before installing your solar pump, you should avoid problems like those mentioned above.
Solar water pumps are more energy-efficient than alternative power sources.
• They require almost no maintenance
• Solar pumps are durable.
• You can install them anywhere, whether you live in a rural or suburban area.
• Eco-friendly and low cost
Let the Experts Help You – Walker Environmental is based in the Logan area, supplying replacement water pumps and affordable servicing. We service all Brisbane, Logan, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Ipswich and Toowoomba Suburbs.