Solar heater panel tube leak repair and do I need a vacuum break valve?

[Protlost]

It looks like I have a small leak in one of the tubes on my FAFCO heater panel. Clearly the tube is leaking because it rubbed on the bolt under it so there is also a mounting issue.

Do you have any tips on fixing the leak?

How can I make this mounting situation better? It's clearly a substandard install.

Am I supposed to have a vacuum break in the system? I see them mentioned in other installs but I'm not sure of the purpose. Maybe to drain the line when not in use?

?

 

[pooldv]

I'm pretty sure Solar Direct sells a Fafco repair kit. Yes, a vacuum release valve is needed so that the panels can drainage not in use. It isn't good for the panels or the plumbing on the roof to have water in them. It overheats and creates a vacuum and can collapse the pipes and cause premature failure on the panels. Not to mention the water getting too hot and burning someone in the pool.

 

[Protlost]

If it has one the vacuum release valve should be at the highest point in the system correct?

 

[Protlost]

I found this diagram on the Solar Direct site for the breaker valve. They also had the repair kit. According to FAFCO my panels have a 12 year warranty but I don't have the receipt since they were installed by the previous owner.

 

[borjis]

I repaired a solar industries panel quite easily.

the design is nearly the same as yours.

get some liquid nails adhesive and a few 1/4" nylon bolts. (make sure that will fit your tube size)

cut the head off the bolts, then gently cut out the broken tube
area with a razor.

put some liquid nails on the threads of the nylon bolts, then
squirt a bit of liquid nails inside both of the tubes.

then gently shove the bolt threads into the tube holes. let it cure overnight.

 

[pooldv]

The VRV can be installed at the end of the upper header or lower header. It will take less pressure to close it on the lower header. Mine is installed on the upper header and it works fine. But, my solar panels aren't that high.

 

[Protlost]

I still haven't installed the VRV. I know I need to get it done but I've been a little busy with other projects.

I did repair my leak with F4 tape. My understanding is the name comes from the tape being used on the wiring harnesses on the F4 Phantom. It fuses to itself when stretched but doesn't rely on glue to stick to whatever it's wrapped around. The repair has been holding just fine over summer with no leaks.

X-Treme Tape TPE-X36ZLB Silicone Rubber Self Fusing Tape, 1" x 36', Triangular, Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HWROLIG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_guYOzbTCRKQP9