Product Description
The SOLAR SOLAHART BOOSTED HOT WATER THERMOSTAT ROBERTSHAW 50-70°C (Part # ST1301133) is a thermostat used in solar water heating systems that include a boosted heating element, often found in hybrid or thermosiphon solar hot water systems. This thermostat helps regulate the temperature of the water, ensuring it doesn't overheat while maintaining an optimal temperature for household use. Here's a breakdown of the key features and specifications of this part:
Key Features of ST1301133 Solar Solahart Boosted Hot Water Thermostat:
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Temperature Range:
- The thermostat is adjustable within the 50-70°C range, allowing for precise control over the hot water temperature. This range is typically sufficient for household hot water needs, such as for showers, cleaning, and cooking.
- This range ensures that the water does not become too hot, which could cause burns or excessive energy usage, while still providing an adequate supply of hot water.
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For Boosted Solar Hot Water Systems:
- This thermostat is specifically designed for use in boosted solar water heaters, which combine solar energy with an electric booster (typically a heating element). The booster is used when solar energy isn't sufficient to reach the desired water temperature.
- The thermostat helps control the temperature of the electric booster to avoid overheating while ensuring the water is hot enough when solar energy is insufficient.
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Robertshaw Brand:
- The Robertshaw brand is well-known for producing high-quality thermostats and control systems. These thermostats are reliable and durable, making them a common choice for various heating and cooling applications, including water heaters.
- The use of Robertshaw thermostats in solar systems indicates a strong focus on precision and safety in regulating water temperature.
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Compatibility:
- This specific thermostat is suitable for use with Solahart solar water heaters, as well as other solar systems that have a boosted heating element. It should be compatible with systems designed to operate within the 50-70°C range.
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Energy Efficiency:
- By regulating the temperature of the water and only activating the booster when necessary, this thermostat helps maintain energy efficiency. The goal of solar water heaters is to reduce energy consumption, and this thermostat helps achieve that by reducing unnecessary use of electric power.
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Durability and Performance:
- The Robertshaw ST1301133 thermostat is built to last, with solid construction designed to endure the harsh conditions often associated with water heaters (heat, moisture, etc.).
- It helps provide consistent performance over time, ensuring that your solar hot water system operates reliably and efficiently.
Symptoms of a Faulty Thermostat:
If the thermostat is faulty, you might experience the following issues with your boosted solar water heating system:
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Inconsistent Water Temperature:
- If the thermostat is not regulating the temperature properly, the water may become either too hot or too cold, or it may fluctuate unexpectedly.
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Water Not Heating Up:
- If the thermostat is defective or has failed completely, the heating element may not activate, meaning the water will not reach the desired temperature, especially on cloudy days when solar energy is insufficient.
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Overheating:
- A malfunctioning thermostat could allow the water to overheat beyond the intended range, potentially leading to dangerous situations or damage to the system.
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Frequent Cycling of the Heating Element:
- If the thermostat is faulty, the heating element may turn on and off too frequently, leading to excessive energy use or wear on the system.
Installation and Replacement:
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Turn Off Power:
- Always ensure the power to the solar hot water system is turned off before replacing the thermostat to avoid electrical hazards.
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Access the Thermostat:
- The thermostat is typically located near the electric booster in the hot water system. You may need to open the access panel of the solar hot water unit to access the thermostat.
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Disconnect Old Thermostat:
- Disconnect the wires attached to the faulty thermostat. Make sure to note the connections or take a picture to ensure correct installation of the new thermostat.
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Install the New Thermostat:
- Install the new Robertshaw ST1301133 thermostat in the same position as the old one. Reconnect the electrical wires securely to the new thermostat.
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Test the System:
- After installation, power on the system and check that the thermostat is working correctly by setting the temperature to the desired range (50-70°C). Monitor the hot water supply to ensure it's heating to the correct temperature and the system is cycling properly.
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Check for Leaks:
- After installation, inspect the system for any potential water leaks or electrical issues to ensure that everything is functioning properly.