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Photovoltaic (PV) Module
Last update: 05-Feb-2009 08:01 PM
No sensors or differential control are needed with this system. Since the electric output of the photovoltaic module changes with sunlight intensity, it powers the pump at the variable rate, causing an increase in water flow on a sunny day and a slower circulation when the weather conditions are not as good. This can increase the efficiency of the solar water heater over conventional methods. In addition the pump will operate during a power outage (which occurs frequently in Hawaii) and insure hot water as long as there is adequate sunshine.
It is essential that the PV module be absolutely free from shading from any source from 9:00am to 5:00pm throughout the year. Even partial shade will stop current flow causing the pump to stop until the shade is cleared.
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