Recent Projects

 

Commercial Hot Water Heater Installations

(Green Impact Partnership Projects)

November 25th., 2008.
On November 25th., our partner, Green Impact Installed 32,000 Btus (9.4kW) Commercial Solar Hot Water Heater for a  Karate Studio in Charleston, South Carolina.  The Karate Studio's owner is benefiting not only from South Carolina's state income tax credit of 45%, but also from the Federal Income tax credit of 30%.
The solar thermal array has four 20 square feet Solar Roofs collectors on the roof.  During a cold cloudy day in January of 2009, the Solar hot water heater was heating water at 135 degrees.  The collectors had to be tilted to optimized for winter operation.   We added two anti-freeze Dole PF series mechanical valves to protect the array in the event of a power failure.
The solar hot water heater is outfitted with a Steca solar hot water heater controller that activates the pump when there is any heat to remove from the collector array on the roof.  In addition, the controller will activate the pump if the collectors are in danger of a mild freeze.
The storage system consist of two 70 gallons electrical water heater for a total of 140 gallons of solar storage.  The Electric water heaters were retrofitted as solar storage vessels.  The electrical elements are connected only when the solar heated water is depleted.  However, by a client of the Karate Studio, He used to run out of hot water before the Solar Hot water Heater was installed.--But not anymore!

(Green Impact Partnership Projects)

November 25th., 2008.
On November 25th, Green Impact Technologies (a Solartech Partner), upgraded a 200,000 BTUs (58.6kW) Commercial Solar Hot Water Heater in Port Royal, South Carolina.  The Solar hot water heater was installed by a solar dealer that went out of business several years earlier.  The system had not been maintained during the period.
The Commercial Solar hot  water heater delivers hot water to a car wash and a Laundromat.  The Laundromat has 16 double, 6 triple and  4 giant loaders.  The Laundromat uses between 380 to 1,500 gallons of hot water on daily bases (peaking on weekends).  The previous did not install an automatic solar controller.  Which is the heart of any solar water heater since it activate the circulator (pump) when ever there is any heat to collect from the panels.  The installers had the business owner decide when it was hot enough to plug in the pump.
In addition, not having a solar controller, the system had lost all the pipe insulation which means that system was dumping heat via the pipe.  Green Impact also added a water meter to the gas backup heater to determine how much hot water was being used at the laundry facility.

 Smart Energy Installations

 

August 9th., 2012.
On August 9th. we installed an 2.58 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in Southwest  San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (11) 235 watts Bosch photovoltaic modules and a string inverter inverter.  The photovoltaic modules are installed above the second story of the 2,100 square feet home.
The photovoltaic modules are installed on the south roof therefore optimized for ideal  energy capturing.  The power system is supplementing the electrical needs of a 2,100 square feet home.  even thought the Solectria central inverter is outfitted with Alternate Current disconnect and Direct Current internal disconnects, local officials requires external Alternate and Direct current disconnects.

 

April 27th., 2012.
On April 27th. Solartech Technologies supported our partner Gustavo Mendoza at Smartworld Energy during an inverter changeout.   Smartworld Energy installed the  2kW photovoltaic system a couple of years ago in a northwest San Antonio community.
Kaco, the inverter manufacturer had a recall on a specific component inside the power inverter that cause repeated inverter shutdown.  Smartworld Energy requested our support during the minor repair and we were glad to assist them.

 

March 16th., 2012.
On March 16th. we installed an 5.06 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in South  San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (22) 230 watts Bosch photovoltaic modules and a string inverter inverter.  The photovoltaic modules are installed in landscape form rather than portrait.
The photovoltaic modules are installed on the south west roof therefore capturing the afternoon sun.  The power system is supplementing the electrical needs of a 2,200 square feet home.  even thought the Fronius central inverter is outfitted with Alternate Current disconnect and Direct Current internal disconnects, local officials requires external Alternate and Direct current disconnects.

 

February 6th., 2012.
On February 6th. we installed an 5.98 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in North Central in San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (26) 230 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and (26) micro inverters.
We used the latest Enphase micro inverters (M215).  The M215 micro inverters have a higher efficiency are easier to install.   Micro inverters are ideal for this type of install--where we could not locate all photovoltaic modules on one roof.

 

January 21st., 2012.
On January 21st. we installed an 5.06 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in North Central in San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (22) 230 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and (22) micro inverters.
The customer had anther solar deal installed an 5.25 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system tow years ago.   The power system has (30) 175 watts Suntech photovoltaic modules and (30) micro inverters.    We used the latest Enphase micro inverters (M190).  The M190 micro inverters have a higher efficiency are easier to install.

 

January 30th., 2012.
On January 30th. we installed an 6.9 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in North Central in San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (30) 230 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and (30) micro inverters.
We used the latest Enphase micro inverters (M215).  The M215 micro inverters have a higher efficiency are easier to install.   Micro inverters are ideal for this type of install--where we could not locate all photovoltaic modules on one roof.

 

January 5th., 2012.
On January 5th. we installed an 7.36 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in North Central in San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (32) 235 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and (32) micro inverters.
We used the latest Enphase micro inverters (M215).  The M215 micro inverters have a higher efficiency are easier to install.   Micro inverters are ideal for this type of install--where we could not locate all photovoltaic modules on one roof.

Solar Conduit Installations

 

September 29th., 2011.
On September 29th. we installed an 8.28 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in North Central in San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (36) 235 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and (36) micro inverters.
We used the latest Enphase micro inverters (M215).  The M215 micro inverters have a higher efficiency are easier to install.   Micro inverters are ideal for this type of install--where we could not locate all photovoltaic modules on one roof.

 

August 16th., 2011.
On August 16th. we installed an 4.14 kWh photovoltaic grid-tie power system in South  San Antonio, Texas.   The power system has (18) 235 watts Schott photovoltaic modules and a ) string inverter inverter.  The power system is supplementing the electrical needs of a 1,400 square feet home.

 

August 9th., 2010.
On August 9th. we installed a 850 cfm solar attic fan in The Great Northwest in San Antonio, Texas.   The 2200 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 220 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).
We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.

 

June 24th., 2010.
On June 24th. we installed a 850 cfm solar attic fan in Helotes, Texas.   The 3200 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 320 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.   We measured the attic average temperature the day before the solar attic ventilation install.  We found attic temperatures between 130 and 117 degrees Fahrenheit.   After the Solar Attic fan implementation, the average attic temperature was between 106 and 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

 

Solartech Technologies Installations

 

March 19th., 2013.

On March 19th., we replaces the solar storage tank of of a solar hot water heater installed in Canyon Lake in 2007.   The solar storage tank is part of a residential 1.4Kw Solar Hot Water heater.  Coincidentally, the 80 gallons backup heat leaked one week before the solar tank.   We suspect the aggressive nature of the Texas Hill county water attacked the iron in the tanks after depleting the anode rods.   We will have to religiously replace the anode rods approximately every 36 to 48 months to prevent premature tank failures.

 

March 10th., 2013
On March 10th., Solartech Technologies installed it 1st. in house designed electronic solar tracker in Downtown San Antonio, Texas.  The solar tracker carries six (6) 260 photovoltaic modules.   Again, we used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.  All micro inverter installs have one module to an inverter.   1.56kW tracker array will is designed to remove 50% of the daily minimum electrical requirements excluding the air condition requirements.  This install is the first installment of two.
We designed an array that will remove 100% of the minimum requirements, but because of costs, the home owner decided to implement the project in two phases.  We estimate the second tracker will be implemented later this year. Solartech designed, constructed all the solar steel mounting, along with the motorized and electronics systems.

 

January 5th., 2013.
On January 5th., we commissioned a solar thermal hot water heater in Garden Ridge, Texas.   The solar hot water heater has a  Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series, and  a 50 gallons solar storage tank.   We also included a high efficiency solar hot water controller that has a micro controller.
The 50 gallons solar storage tank pre-heats water for a high efficiency 100,000 Btu propane tankless water heater.   The homes is built to the highest efficiency today.  The walls and roof deck are sprayed with Urethane foam insulation.  Also the roof deck is build with radiant barrier while the roof is standing seam metal.   In addition, the house is illuminated during the day with skylights.   The home also has a rain collection system to supply water for the sprinkling system and plant watering.

 

October 12th, 2012
On October 12th., Solartech Technologies installed a water heater timer on one of our solar water heater in downtown San Antonio, Texas.   Ideally, solar water heaters are pre-heaters, and should not be integrated as a backup heater.  A solar water heater should have its dedicated storage tank apart from the backup heater tank.  When solar installers integrate the solar storage and the backup heat in the same tank, the backup heater takes over the heating before the solar can do its job.   In order to reduce retrofit  costs (i.e. installing another thank),
we recommended our customer to install a timer that will use grid power during the evenings when the sun is not available.  This ensures 100% solar water heating contribution during the day without grid intervention.  Our customer implemented radiant barrier measures in his attic.  This measure will reduce his summer bill by at least 20% and his winter will reduce by even more.

 

July 13th., 2012.

On July 13th., Solartech Technologies striving to increase array output, we  implemented our 1st. in-house PV tracker mount in Three Rivers, Texas.  We design and construct the PV mount.  We added  a DC linear actuator to achieve the east and westward motion.  We also design the electronic tracking controller.   In partnership with our Three River customer, we transfer (3) of his 180 watts Sharp modules with (3) of the Microinverters on to the tracker mount.  This arrangement allow us to achieve over an average of 12% more system output.  ( three panels in the background)

 

July 13th., 2012.

On July 13th., Solartech Technologies striving to increase array output, we  implemented our 1st. in-house PV tracker mount in Three Rivers, Texas.  We design and construct the PV mount.  We added  a DC linear actuator to achieve the east and westward motion.  We also design the electronic tracking controller.   In partnership with our Three River customer, we transfer (3) of his 180 watts Sharp modules with (3) of the Microinverters on to the tracker mount.  This arrangement allow us to achieve over an average of 12% more system output.

 

June 20th., 2012.
On June 20th., Solartech Technologies remove and re-install a SunTrapper collector in In Bulverde, Texas.  This SunTrapper system was the 1st. solar hot water heater installed by SunTrapper in the San Antonio area back in the mid 80s.  The home was being re-roofed with what is know as COOL ROOF.

 

June 6th., 2012.

On June 6th., Solartech Technologies implemented a ground mount 4kW grid-tie Photovoltaic power system in Marion, Texas.  The system owner took advantage Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative's (GVEC's) $2.50 per watt cash rebate.  Between the Federal and utility rebates, the homeowner only paid 30% of the cost of equipment and installation of the photovoltaic system.  Again, we used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.  All micro inverter installs have one module to an inverter.

 

June 6th., 2012.
On June 6th., Solartech Technologies implemented a ground mount 4kW grid-tie Photovoltaic power system in Seguin, Texas.  The system owner took advantage Guadalupe Valley Electric Cooperative's (GVEC's) $2.50 per watt cash rebate.  Between the Federal and utility rebates, the homeowner only paid 30% of the cost of equipment and installation of the photovoltaic system.  Again, we used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.  All micro inverter installs have one module to an inverter.

 

May 12th., 2012.

On May 12th., Solartech Technologies implemented a pole mounted 0.46kW grid-tie Photovoltaic power system in Three Rivers, Texas.  The system owner took advantage of a sale on Solarworld photovoltaic modules.   The 230 watts modules and 215 watts micro inverters will allow him to achieve higher outputs that he was able to obtain from his 180 Sharp photovoltaic modules.  He is able to generate more than 50% of the output of his original system.  We used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.   All micro inverter installs have one module to an inverter.

 

April 27th., 2012.
On April 27th., Solartech Technologies Finished a one year retrofit process on a 3kW array in Three Rivers, Texas.  The solar PV array was originally an off-grid power generator.  The system owner opted for upgrading from a central off-grid inverter to a decentralized micro inverter layout.  This retrofit increased his output by 25% and virtually eliminated his summer utility bill.

 

March 8th., 2012.

On March 8th., Solartech performed  routine inspection on a domestic hot water heater installed for a previous homeowner in North West San Antonio.  For some reason, the pump got disconnected from the controller.  The new homeowner called for servicing.  When we plugged in the pump, the solar hot water heater begin making hot water immediately.   During our inspection, we saw the temperature and pressure valve on the backup electric heater need replacing.   We also inspected the solar attic fan and it was working designed over four years ago.

 

February 24th., 2012.
On February 24th., Solartech installed a new electric 24-hour timer for a solar pool and spa heater in North Central San Antonio.  We have been making seasonal adjustment as the Spring season approaches.   During the winter we were only heating the spa, not the pool.

 

February 15th., 2012.
On February 15th., Solartech performed minor repairs and adjustments a solar pool and spa heater in North Central San Antonio.  We have been making seasonal adjustment as the Spring season approaches.   During the winter we were only heating the spa, not the pool.

 

December 4th., 2011.
On December 4th., Solartech perform minor repairs to a Solar Roofs solar thermal hot water heater in Corpus Christi, Texas.   We commissioned this solar hot water heater back in November of 2006.  While the home owner was away on vacation, the collectors suffered freeze damage during early winter of this year.

 

November 22nd., 2011.
On November 22nd., Solartech retrofitted and install a well pump system in Helotes, Texas. The estate has two single family dwellings on the property (2,200 square feet each).   The homeowner have had a previous contractor install a 1,500 gallons storage to pump well water into.  But they were unsuccessful in having the well pump fill up the reservoir and maintaining house water pressure.
The original contractor also miscalculated the size of the pressure pump.  We properly sized the pressure pump and install some necessary accessories to insure proper operation of the water pumping and house pressure system.
We also installed bypass valve or diverting valves in case of maintenance and servicing.  We also installed drainage valves for periodic tank cleaning and / or freezing weather.  We our design the home owner has three to four days of storage for the two dwellings.  This will help the homeowner save on the utility bill and on the life of the submersible pump life.  In proper operation mode, the well pump will operate only  twice a week rather than four or more times a day.

 

November 16th., 2011.

On November 16th., Solartech performed minor repairs on a solar hot water heater in Shavanno Park, Texas.   This solar heater has a freeze protection backup feature which is the circulation of warm water up to the collectors to prevent freeze damage.  The solar pump got damaged by the hard water in the city of Shavanno Park water.  Since the pump was not operating during a light freeze, we had collector damage.  We repair the collector and install a new solar pump.  We are designing a filtration system to prevent future hard water issues.

 

October 27th., 2011.

On October 27th., Solartech re-commissioned  an 11 years old solar solar pool heater in Stone Oak, San Antonio, Texas.  The Solar pool heater was installed back in the mid 80s by SunTrapper.  The solar pool heater was uninstalled several years ago when they repair the roof.  The homeowner had problems finding a dealer to re-installing the collectors since SunTrapper has been out of business since 2,000.

 

September 29th., 2011.
On September 29th. we installed 97 square feet of solar screens on a Northwest San Antonio, Texas residence.   Solar screens reject approximately 90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 17,460 Btu per day (about 1-1/2-Tons of air condition cooling).  The screens in the front of the house are facing the midday sun while the left screens reject solar radiation from the western hemisphere.  According to the customer, it was very difficult to stay in these rooms during the summer.

 

May 1st., 2011.
On May 1st., Solartech retrofitted solar storage tank in Hillcrest, San Antonio, Texas.  The Solar hot water heater was installed back in the mid 80s during the 60% income tax credit of the Jimmy Carter administration.
The solar tank was 80 gallons with an external heat exchanger.  The water pumps have failed and would have to to be replaced.  In addition to the pump replacement, the system requires a periodic antifreeze exchange.  This means a periodic maintenance cost that could be avoided if convert the system to a direct system--  (no antifreeze).
The solar thermal collectors and the storage tank seem to be in great shape despite the years of service.  Therefore we did not have to upgrade the controller, collectors, the tank, and the plumbing equipment.  All we added were system accessories and minor plumbing parts such as ball valves, hose bib, etc.

 

April 26th., 2011.

On April 26th., we installed a new solar  Solar Grid-tie system in Northwest San Antonio, Texas.  We install (18) eighteen 175 watts monocrystaline modules (3,150 watts).  Again, we used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.  We implemented this system with the Newly Acquired Westinghouse Solar (previously called Andalay Solar) AC solar modules.  These modules produce Alternate Current that goes directly into the grid.

 

March 12th., 2011.
On March 12th. we installed 47 square feet of solar screens on a Northwest San Antonio, Texas residence.   Solar screens reject approximately 90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 8,000 Btu per day (about 3/4-Tons of air condition cooling).  The arch screen faces the rising sun while the rectangular screens reject solar radiation from the southern hemisphere.  According to the customer, it was very difficult to stay in this room during the morning hours of the summer.

 

December 10th., 2010.
On December 10th., we installed a new solar  charge controller in Fredericksburg, Texas.  The solar charger stopped charging the batteries and had to be replaced.  We suggested a Tri Start solar charge since it has digital display that shows cumulative amp meter, kWatt meter, and array voltage.
While examining the Trace Engineering owner's manual  I discovered that these inverters were on the cutting edge of technology.  Trace Engineering developed a grid-tie inverter back in the late 80s.  The reason they quit manufacturing them is because of the unreasonable demands of the utilities.  The utilities wanted and isolation transformer to separate the utility network from the solar electric network.
After 20 years utilities are allowing "transformerless" inverters again.   Therefore we decided to re-program the inverter system to sell power back to the utility.  To comply with utility requirements, we had to install an AC lockable disconnect.    This device is required in case the utility if servicing the the electrical network in the vicinity of the property.

 

October 30th., 2010.
On October 30th., Solartech installed a new solar hot water controller in Fredericksburg, Texas.   The original controller was one of the best controller ever built in its time.  It was a variable speed controller.    The original controller would shut down long after dawn.  This behavior would cool off the tank's temperature from 120 to 80 degrees.
The homeowner had purchased a 200 watts array to operate a well pump.  He never got around implementing it.  Therefore he decided to have the pole mounted array integrated into the off-grid battery operated power system.  The final array output wattage is 2,880 watts.

 

October 25th., 2010.
On October 25th., we performed major wiring repairs in Fredericksburg, Texas.   The system has (32) 80 watts Solarex photovoltaic modules.    The modules are string in series of four and then paralleled together.  The system's owner had the system installed for the Y2K by Sun Trapper.
The weather and elements deteriorated the conduits and wiring on the roof.  This degradation shorted the array's output.   Since there was no power going into the batteries from the array, the battery bank voltage reached critical levels.  We also upgraded the wiring with UV rated wiring and conduit.  We added a PV combiner breaker box.
This feature made it safer to work on the array and made it easier to shut down strings independently without shutting down the whole array.The homeowner had his kitchen appliances, lights, a freezer, and a well pump sub paneled in case there was a power failure during Y2K.
That sub panel is fed by two 4kW 24volts DC off-grid inverters by Trace Engineering.The 2,560 watts array stores its power into 6,000 amp hours battery bank.   The battery bank is configured by (24) 250AH deep flooded batteries.

 

September 27th., 2010.
In September 27th., Solartech and AAA Alamo Heating and Cooling retrofitted solar storage tank in Fair Oaks, Texas.  The Solar hot water heater was installed back in the mid 80s during the 60% income tax credit of the Jimmy Carter administration.  The solar hot water heater had had no major repairs other than new temperature sensor in 2,009.   The water heater had a leaking, therefore it was replaced.  The solar tank was 80 gallons with an internal heat exchanger.  We suggested the system's owner to install an 80 gallons storage tank with en external heat exchanger.
This style of solar water heater was very common back in the 80s, but not anymore.  This type system is called a dranback closed loop.   We had to add another circulation pump to the system circuit.   The orignal solar water heater had only one heating element.  We implemented a dual heating element inside the 80 gallons storage tank.   Typically,  we don't recommend having one solar tank and backup heater tank.  In order to maximize solar water heater efficiency and homeowner's ROI we recommended implementing a water heater timer.  The timer will ensure sufficient hot water early and late in the day.  This setup allow the solar to add heat during the day without interference of the heating elements.

 

May 5th., 2010.
In May 5th., Solartech retrofitted on off-grid photovoltaic system in Three Rivers, Texas.  The Off-grid system was commissioned 2,007.  To increase the photovoltaic system's efficiency and harvest, we have transferred 30% of the off-grid modules over to micro inverter technology.
We estimate that the household will harvest at least 15% more power by using grid interactive inverter technology.   At the same time, we expect another 15% more power due to the segmenting each PV module.  When modules are string together, they loose around 5% due to mismatching power outputs during the manufacturing process.   The array suffers shading during the early and late hour of the day.  The segmentation will allow early inverter startup and minimize the impact of shading to individual module rather than large sections of array as it was before the implementation.

 

October 10th., 2010.
On October 10th, We completed our second grid-tie photovoltaic system in the King William Historical Preservation community in downtown San Antonio.  We install (18) eighteen 124 watts tri-junction laminate amorphous modules (2,232 watts).
The Laminate modules are frameless therefore we did not have to use the traditional rack mounts.  These modules have a self-adhesive that secure them to the flat metal roof.   The integrated module also allowed us to have no roof penetration.
Again, we used one of the most efficient inverters today--Enphase micro inverters.  We have pared two 124 watts Unisolar modules to one micro inverter.  This has not been done before.  All micro inverter installs have one module to an inverter.
We this strategy we not only maximize the inverter efficiency (99% when operating at it maximum output), but we are also maximizing the homeowner's investment.  In all micro inverter install the solar modules never reach the maximum output of the micro inverters (199 watts AC).   From mid Spring to late Fall the micro inverters are generating power above 90% of there rated output.
CPS requires the installation of two electric meters.  The existing analog billing meter is replaced with a digital version.   The additional electric meter that records the energy made by the photovoltaic meter.  The combination of the meters give CPS and the homeowner a clear picture of where the power is going.
In addition to the photovoltaic system, we implemented a high efficiency heating and cooling system.  Our HVAC partner (Lee's Heating and Cooling) installed a 4 ton heat pump system.  They used the well-known Mitsubishi Mini-split with infrared eye that finds hot spot or cold spot in the room and eliminates them.

 

April 26th., 2010.
On April 26, we completed the installation of a 4.1kW grid-tie inverter in the King William Historical district in downtown San Antonio.   The Photovoltaic array has eighteen 230 watts Sharp modules and eighteen Enphase micro inverters. We face two changes, one was the fact the we hand no south facing roof, and second, we didn't want to make roof penetrations.	All we had available was a south east and south west roof available to install the photovoltaic modules. If we used the traditional string inverter, we would have needed more than one inverter in order to maintain the system's efficiency.   Therefore used non-penetrating PV mounts and latest inverter technology--micro inverters.  Each micro inverter has its respective PV module.
The micro inverter receive the direct current (DC) power from the photovoltaic module and converts it to 240 Volts alternate current (AC) at 96% efficiency.  The entire power system has a 100% if a particular PV module or inverter is not operating properly.  We can remove that problem PV module or inverter without affecting the other units.	Another advantage of micro inverters is that an under performed module will not affect the power output of the entire system since each module/inverter combination is independent of each other.   Even shading or other circumstances that prevent equal solar radiation from striking a module will not affect the rest of the array.
The array of micro inverters are harnessed together via controller or Envoy unit.   The Envoy communicate with each inverter, collect information, stores it and uploads the information to the Enlighten website.   In addition to the photovoltaic grid-tie system, we implemented a high efficiency  11 Tons mini-split heat pump HVAC system for this residence.   The home was outfitted with an 100 years old steam boiler for heating,	but there was no cooling equipment.   The newly implemented HVAC system has 12 wall mounted air handlers that serve an equal number of zones.  These independent zones will allow the homeowner to only heat or cool each as needed.  Industry standard attribute a 20 to 30% energy savings to zoned HVAC systems such as mini-splits.  On May 24th CPS Energy commissioned the PV system by installing the PV & billing meters.

 

March 5th., 2009.
On March 5th. we performed minor repairs on a 41K BTUs thermal collector array. The solar space heat system needed 3 glazing covers replace at the request of prospective home buyers.  It was a cosmetic repair rather than an operational one.

 

November  30th., 2009.
On November 30th. we installed a 1.6kW grid-tie array on a southern suburb of Houston, Texas.  This system install was a part of a continuing expansion of a previous off-grid install ( a 18,000 BTUs Solar Heat pump).  We expanded 400 watts off-grid photovoltaic system to a 1,600 watts grid-tie array that will further reduce the home owner's utility bill.  We implemented	the grid-tie array using eight Sanyo HIP (hybrid) 200 Watts photovoltaic modules and a 2000 watts FRONIUS grid-tie inverter.  As you can see, we used ground-mount PV mounts.  The homeowner is not allowed by his homeowner association to install solar modules on his roof.   The PV power system is outfitted with a DC disconnect and a AC disconnect--according to NEC regulations.

 

July  18th., 2009.
On July 18th. we installed a 850 cfm solar attic fan and 94 square feet of solar screens in the Stone Oak area of San Antonio, Texas.   The 414 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 70 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.
Solar screens reject approximately 80% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 93,000 Btu per day (about 7-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

April  24th., 2009.
On April 24th. we installed 152 square feet of solar screens on a Northwest San Antonio, Texas residence.   Solar screens reject approximately 90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 136,000 Btu per day (about 11-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

April  21st., 2009.
On April 21st. we installed solar fountain at San Antonio Time Dollar Community in San Antonio, Texas.  This Sign light is the first of its kind in San Antonio.  The DC pump only needs 1.74 watts per hour to operate.  We charge the battery with a 8 watts per hour amorphous PV array.  In addition to the solar charger, the system is outfitted with a DC digital seven event programmable timer.  The solar fountain is the cornerstone of a meditating garden that will serve faith based community.
The San Antonio Time Dollar solar fountain consist of a 12 volt , 7 ampere-hour Lead-Acid battery, a two 4 watt amorphous (cloudy weather ) module, a 10 amp solar charger, a DC digital programmable timer and  a 1.74 watts  DC pump.  The pump will operate eleven and a half hours on daily bases.   This will allow the community members to enjoy the meditation garden after working hours.

 

April  22nd., 2009.
On April 22nd. we installed 120 square feet of solar screens on a Northwest San Antonio, Texas residence.   Solar screens reject approximately 80% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 108,000 Btu per day (about 9-Tons of air condition cooling).
The 5,412 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 770 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 1,200 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

April  9th., 2009.
On April 9th. Solartech installed a 1kW Domestic Solar Hot Water Heater in a Shavano Park, Texas residence.   The 1Kw domestic water heater has a controller, 50 gallons of storage and a circulation pump.   The 1,900 square feet home have an existing 40 gallons gas backup heater.  The homeowner had the solar heater installed during a home improvement project.
The solar water heater will pre-heat the utility water to (on average) 130 degrees.   The pre-heat water will feed into the cold port of the backup heater.  The 130 degrees hot water will prevent the backup heater from turning on--therefore saving the homeowner on his electric bill.   In addition to the solar hot water heater, the homeowner installed a solar attic fan and a rain collection system for landscaping purposes.

 

October 22nd., 2008.
On September 21st. Solartech performed repairs and anti-freeze change out in  a 3.7kW Domestic Solar Hot Water Heater in a Bulvede, Texas residence.   The 3.7Kw domestic water heater has a controller, 80 gallons of storage, heat exchanger and a circulation pump.
There is only one 80 gallons electric backup heater and solar storage tank.   The domestic solar hot water heater was installed by SunTrapper in the mid 1980s.  We had to replace the 80 gallon storage tank due to a water softener failure.

 

October 10th., 2008.

On October 10th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Alamo Heights residence.   The 1,321 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 220 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 800 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

September 21st., 2008.
On September 21st. Solartech installed a 1kW Domestic Solar Hot Water Heater in a Leon Springs, Texas residence.   The 1Kw domestic water heater has a controller, 50 gallons of storage and a circulation pump.   The 1,900 square feet home have an existing 50 gallons electric backup heater.
The solar water heater will pre-heat the utility water to (on average) 130 degrees.   The pre-heat water will feed into the cold port of the backup heater.  The 130 degrees hot water will prevent the backup heater from turning on--therefore saving the homeowner on his electric bill.   The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $510 for every Domestic Solar Hot Water Heater you install.

 

August 31st., 2008.
On August 31st. we performed repairs for the City of Leon Valley.  Due to vandalism, the maintenance department had to replace the damaged solar electric panels, installed new motion sensors and fluorescents light fixtures.
The facility has two restrooms and a utility room.  The restrooms are outfitted with 12 volts motion sensors that activate the 12 volts fluorescent lights during the night when the restrooms are occupied.  In addition to the restrooms lights, there is a security 12 volts fluorescent light that activates from dusk to dawn.

 

August 31st., 2008.

On August 31st. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Leon Valley, Texas residence.   The 1,360 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 230 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 800 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 21st., 2008.

On August 21st. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Shavano Park, Texas residence.   The 2,421 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 345 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 800 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 14th., 2008.

On August 14th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northcentral San Antonio residence.   The 2,070 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 180 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 800 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 11th., 2008.

On August 11th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northcentral San Antonio residence.   The 2,760 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 488 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 460 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 21st., 2008.
On August 21st. we installed 100 square feet of solar screens on St Peter's Catholic Church.   Solar screens reject approximately 80-90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 99,000 Btu per day (about 8-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

August 7th., 2008.
On August 7th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northwest San Antonio residence.   The 2,928 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 488 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 1,2000 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 6th., 2008.

On August 6th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northwest San Antonio residence.   The 7,440 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 1,240 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 1,2000 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

August 1st., 2008.
On August 1st. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northwest San Antonio residence.   The 5,250 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 875 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter. The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

July 31st., 2008.

On July 31st. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Southeast San Antonio residence.   The home was built in the 1,920s.  The homeowner is upgrading the insulation levels in the attic and installing a radiant barrier.  The 2,333 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 390 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.  The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

July 30th., 2008.
On July 30th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Universal City residence.    The homeowner is upgrading the insulation levels in the attic and installing a radiant barrier.  The 7,000 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 1,000 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We downgraded and installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs) since the homeowner have installed a radiant barrier.     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.  The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

July 8th., 2008.
On July 8th. Solartech traveled to a south Houston Suburb to help the Cecalek family get their SolCool Solar Air Condition operational.   THE FIRST ONE INSTALLED IN TEXAS!  The PV array has four fixed tilt 200 watts Hybrid solar modules.  The total combined array adds up to 800 watts per hour of PV power.   The PV system was originally designed to provide 48 volts to the battery bank.  We recommended the Cecalek's to reconfigure the array the array to deliver 110 volts DC.  The Cecalek's had bought a MX60 solar charger;  the MX60 is one of BEST solar charges available.  The unit has micro controller that tracks the maximum power of the array and make sure it makes it to the battery bank.   In addition to taking the MX60 to its maximum performance (by configuring the array), the higher voltage allow his system to perform more efficiently during the typical Houston early morning cloudy weather.   The PV array has a 5,400 watts battery array: (4) 6 volts DC Trojan 105 with a Max capacity of 225AH deep cycle batteries.   The 5,400 watts battery bank powers a 3,000 watts inverter.  The  inverter powers the SolCool 1-1/2 TON Mini-Split heat pump.

 

May 24th., 2008.
On May 24th. Solartech installed two Solar Attic ventilation fans in a North Central San Antonio suburb  residence.   The 18,000 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 2,500 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed two 13 inch DC fans that move on average 850 (CFMs).  The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.    The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.
The customers targeted specific areas were the sunlight was impacting their day-to-day activities.  These areas are the kitchen (W side of home), the entertainment room (W side of home), the  and the Master bedroom (W side of home). Solar screens reject approximately 80-90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 99,000 Btu per day (about 8-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

March 26th., 2008.
On March 26th. Solartech installed two Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Northwest San Antonio residence.   The 10,000 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 1,500 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed one 13 inch DC fan that moves an average of 1,100 (CFMs).  The solar attic fan is controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  This particular attic fan is outfitted with an amorphous solar module.    The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.    The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.
The customers targeted specific areas were the sunlight was impacting their day-to-day activities.  These areas are the living room (W side of home), the kitchen room (W side of home), the guest bedroom (W side of home), and the home office (W side of home). Solar screens reject approximately 80-90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 80,000 Btu per day (about 6-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

January 4th., 2008.
On January 4th, we performed a minor repair to the 1.4Kw Solar Hot Water heater in North Central  San Antonio, Texas.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 2,100 square foot home.  There is a 24 square feet collector(TB4800 series) rating the whole system at 4,800 BTU per hour water heater. Each solar collector weights only 65 pounds.
The San Antonio home has a separate gas backup heater along with solar storage tank. The system is fitted with a Anti-Freeze protection valve.    The solar storage tank is installed inside a water heater closet.  The solar hot water differential control turn on the circulation pump whenever the collector has enough heat.

 

December 07th., 2007.
On December 7th, at the request of the homeowner's request, we installed an electric backup heater along side the Solar hot water heater at the Leon Springs, Texas home. After the pipe insulation upgrade back in October, the solar hot water system was still not consistently delivering  hot water to the points of use.  The 80 gallons solar tank has a single electrical element that takes care of the top 3rd. of the tank.  This strategy assumes the solar thermal array is able to take care of the bottom 2/3rds.  In cloudy weather and high hot water demand, the solar in combination with the electric elements are unable to deliver enough hot water.  By installing a backup heater and disconnecting the element in the solar tank we restore the main purpose of the solar water heater -- to pre-heat water for the backup heater.  Solar energy SHOULD NEVER BE INSTALLED AS PRIMARY WITHOUT PROPER BACKUP!
In addition to the missing insulation on the roof, the thermal collectors'  had damaged glazing.  This allow precious thermal heat to escape to ambient air farther reducing the efficiency of the solar heater.  Due to the homeowner skepticism and frustration with the system performance over the years, he feel that the new glazing would show any significant improvement on the system's ability to deliver hot water.  Therefore we only patch the breaks as best we could.

 

October 31st., 2007.
We installed twelve solar screens in a home in Cibolo, Texas. The customers targeted specific areas were the sunlight was impacting their day-to-day activities.  These areas are the home office (NE and NW side of home), the dinning room (W side of home), the entertainment room (NW side of home), the kitchen (NW side of home), and the guest bedroom (NW side of home). Solar screens reject approximately 80-90% of the solar radiation (approx 180 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 216,000 Btu per day (about 18-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

October 9th., 2007.
On October 9th. we replaced a solar domestic hot water controller and performed minor repairs to an indirect drainback solar thermal heater.  The system is located in Leon Springs, Texas, and was installed during the original construction of the home back in 1984.
The solar hot water heater has not been serviced since it was installed.  The entire roof piping was exposed to the elements.  The missing insulation impacted the heater performance to the point where the system  delivered no hot water.  The homeowner wanted to remove the system.  We insulated the plumbing system on the roof to help restore the solar loop integrity.

 

July 26th., 2007.
On July 26th., we the replace the broken glazing  a  Residential 2.8Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Canyon Lake, Texas.  The drain back solar hot water system was installed back in 1,986 during the Federal Tax Credit.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 3,500 square foot country home.

 

August 2nd., 2007.

On August 2nd. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Universal City residence.   The 1,611 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 230 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).  This particular attic fan is outfitted with an amorphous unbreakable solar module.   The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.       The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

June 25th., 2007.
On June 25th we remove and re-install (2) 4X6 thermal collectors in North Central San Antonio, Texas. The collectors had to be removed and re-installed due to roof repairs.  The solar water heater was installed by Sun Trapper.  The 9,600 Btu solar heater has been in service since the mid 1980s.

 

June 19th., 2007.
On June 19th we installed solar lights at Olympia Hills in Universal City, Texas.  This Sign light is the Third of its kind in San Antonio.  Due to energy, infrastructure cost and cost savings, we used LED light fixture instead of conventional  lighting (fluorescent, tungsten, halogen, and incandescent) .  A 3 watt LED light could easily replace a 9 watt fluorescent light bulb.
The required photovoltaic panel and battery storage necessary to operate a 3 watt LED light fixture is a fraction of what would be needed to operate a 9 watt fluorescent light. The Solar LED sign light consist of a 12 volt , 56 ampere-hour Lead-Acid battery, a 5 watt amorphous (cloudy weather & unbreakable) module, a 10 amp solar Light control/charger and  a 3 watt  LED light bulb.  The 3 Watt light fixture have 3 High Intensity LEDs.

 

June 13th., 2007.

On June 13th. Solartech installed a Solar Attic ventilation fan in a Northwest San Antonio residence.   The 2,800 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 400 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).  This particular attic fan is outfitted with an amorphous unbreakable solar module.   The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.       The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

June 12th., 2007.

On June 12th. Solartech installed a Solar Attic ventilation fan in a North Central San Antonio residence.   The 5,300 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 750 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed one 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).  The solar attic fans are controlled by a  adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.       The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

June 4th., 2007.

On June 4th., we performed a minor repair  a 2.8Kw Solar Hot Water heater in downtown San Antonio, Texas. The home is part of low income program initiate by SADA back in 2,000. The solar hot water heater was installed four years ago.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 1,200 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater. The home does not have a separate solar storage tank. The solar tank & the backup water heater are all in one tank. The home owners can maximize his savings by unplugging the power to the electrical heating element.

 

June 3rd., 2007.

On June 3rd, we finished retrofitting a  Residential 2Kw Solar Hot Water heater in South San Antonio, Texas. The solar hot water heater was installed four years ago.  The solar collectors were installed on a detach carport.  We had to relocate the panels due to a shifting foundation. The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 1,200 square foot home.  There are two 20 square feet collector rating the whole system at 13,600 BTU per hour water heater. Each solar collector weights only 39 pounds. The home does not have a separate solar storage tank. The solar tank & the backup water heater are all in one tank. The home owners can maximize his savings by unplugging the power to the electrical heating element.

 

June 1st., 2007.

On June 1st., we finished installing a   Residential 1.4Kw Solar Hot Water heater in canyon Lake, Texas.  The solar collectors are installed on the workshop's southwest wall.   The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 5,800 square foot Hill Country home.  The solar hot water heater pre-heats water for the 80 gallons electric backup water heater.  The solar hot water heater will save the home owner on daily activities such as cooking, showering, and laundering.

 

May 4th., 2007.
On May 4th. Solartech installed two Solar Attic ventilation fans in North San Antonio. We installed two 850 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs) solar attic fans. The residence had at Texas basement the was leaking excess heat into the living space.
In addition to the solar attic fans, we installed 6 solar screens. The customers targeted his home office.   Solar screens reject approximately 90% of the solar radiation (approx 200 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 14,800 Btu per hour (about 1.2-Tons of air condition cooling).

 

April 19th., 2007.
On April 19th, we installed a new  Residential 1Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Calliham, west of Three Rivers, Texas.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 1,900 square foot home.  There are two 10 square feet collector rating the whole system at 6,800 BTU per hour water heater. Each solar collector weights only 19 pounds.
The Three Rivers home does not have a separate solar storage tank. The solar tank & the backup water heater are all in one tank. The home owners can maximize his savings by unplugging the power to the electrical heating element.   The South Texas home has a 40 Gallons water storage. The solar storage tank is installed inside a water heater closet.  The only exposed solar equipment is the solar hot water differential control.

 

March 31st., 2007.
On March 31st., we re-connected a   Residential 2.8Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Canyon Lake, Texas.  The drain back solar hot water system was installed back in 1,986 during the Federal Tax Credit.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 3,500 square foot country home.

 

March 18th, 2007.
On March 18th, we installed a new  Residential 1Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Three Rivers, Texas.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 1,500 square foot home.  There are two 10 square feet collector rating the whole system at 6,800 BTU per hour water heater. Each solar collector weights only 19 pounds. The Three Rivers home does not have a separate solar storage tank.
The solar tank & the backup water heater are all in one tank. The home owners can maximize his savings by unplugging the power to the electrical heating element.  The hot water collector array rating is twice the power required for the solar storage.  In Residential applications, we install 5 square feet of collector area per every 10 gallons of storage.  The South Texas home has a 20 Gallons water storage.  As a custom feature, we installed an adjustable collector mount.  This will enable the solar home owner to adjust the array inclination to minimize radiation collection.

 

February 26th, 2007.
On February 26th, we performed a minor plumbing repair and Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) change out to a solar hot water heater system in the Encino Rio subdivision (North Central San Antonio) .    The system has been in service since the 1980s when the Federal Government was offering 40% tax credit towards the cost of Solar installations. The Solar hot water heater system has a 80 gallons solar storage tang, two 3x6 collectors, and an external wall-mounted heat exchanger. The two 18 square feet collector are rated at 7,200 BTU per hour. The solar hot water heater has been providing free hot water to the 2,200 square foot home25 years.

 

January 25th, 2007.
On January 25th. Solartech installed 744 Watts per hour off-grid photovoltaic system in North Central San Antonio. The array has twelve 62 watts unbreakable and amorpous modules.  Each module is rated at 12 volts direct current and 3 amps.  As you see, there are two arrays with six module connected in series.  The operational voltage of each array is 100 volts at 3 amps per hour.  The small business owners are using the PV module to offset the cost of operating a small scale greenhouse.
We used one Outback 3,600, 120VAC Off-Grid inverter.  The inverter and the DC loads operate off 24 volts.    The system also have an Outback MX60 solar charger.  The MX60 is a Maximum Power Point Tracking solar charger.   To store the energy from the solar panels we have included eight 225 Ampere Hour gel batteries.     The inverter system and the DC loads operates off the battery bank as long as there is enough power.  If the battery voltage drops below the preset voltage, the inverter automatically switch over to the grid.  The inverter will charger the battery and provide power to both the AC and the DC load.
In order to maintain the air quality, the growing room has four 24 Volts (DC) 260 CFM exhaust fans.  The fan arrays are operated simultaneously  via a Digital 12 volts timer.  The quad exhaust fans move a total of 1,040 cubic feet of air per minute.

 

February 11th, 2007.
On February 11th. Solartech installed 3,000 Watts off-grid solar photovoltaic system in Three River, Texas. The photovoltaic array as eighteen 180 watts, 44 volts DC crystalline modules.  The solar modules are grouped into two separate arrays.  The arrays have four and five pairs respectively.  Each pair of modules is arranged in series to produce 88 volts DC.  The PV array is protected with lighting arrestors.
The two separate arrays feed two solar charger / controllers. In turn, the solar charger replenish a large battery bank.  The residence is provided 8000 watts at 220 volts AC.  We installed two Xantrex 4048 inverters.  The inverters are operated off two 24 volts  connected in series to deliver 48 volts DC.  The inverter is programmed to operate off the battery bank while the their voltage level is above a preset voltage.
The Xantrex 4048 does not charge the battery bank when the battery voltage is below the preset voltage. We used two 24 volts Fork lift batteries as a battery bank.  Each battery weights 640 pounds each. Since there is no DC load connected to the system, it is not critical to charge the batteries off the grid when the batteries go below the set voltage.  The battery bank only gets charge via the two solar arrays.

 

January 4th, 2007.
On January 4th. Solartech installed three Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Spring Branch Texas residence. Spring Branch is located in the Canyon Lake area.   The 16,620 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 3,320 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed three 16 inch DC fan that moves and average of 1,200 (CFMs).  The solar attic fans are controlled by a single adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.    The Solar attic fans are the first step in making the 5,000 square foot home more energy efficient.  We are schedule to install a 4,800 Btus solar hot water heater to reduce the home water heating utility bill.

 

December 12th, 2006.

On December 12th. Solartech installed two Solar Attic ventilation fans in a North Central San Antonio residence. The 6,400 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 1,200 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs). We installed two 12 inch DC fan that moves and average of 600 to 850 (CFMs).  The DC fan is mounted on the western & east facing attic gable.  The attic fan is operated by two 15 watt, 12 Volt Amorphous panel.  The solar attic fan systems are equipped with two wall mounted thermostats that will prevent the much wanted attic heat during the winter.

 

November 29th, 2006.
On November 29th, Solartech & AAA Alamo Heating & Cooling  upgraded a 26 years old solar hot water and space heat system in San Antonio's Northwest .  The system was installed in 1,986 during the 40% Federal Tax Credit.  It has been in services since them.  The Solar space heat system provides hot water & heats a 5,000 square foot home.
The system has thirteen 16 square foot thermal collectors.  The thermal collector array generates 41,000 BTUs. In addition to the thermal array, the system has a 225 BTU natural gas boiler.  The home is also equipped with an on-demand hot water loop that provides every faucet and shower with instant hot water.
The hydronic system stores the thermal energy in solar storage tanks.  The thermal heat is stored in four 80 gallons - totaling 320 gallons.

 

November 9th, 2006.
On November 9th, we installed a new  Residential 2Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Corpus Christi, Texas.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 2,000 square foot home.  There are two 20 square feet collector rating the whole system at 20,000 BTU per day water heater. Each solar collector weights only 38 pounds. The Corpus Christi home does not have any backup water heater system.
The only means to heat water is via the Solar Hot water heater.  We retrofitted the existing 52 gallons electric water heater as a 100% free solar hot water system. The system has a 10 watts photovoltaic module.  This module provides power a 10 magnetic drive Direct Current (DC) pump.  The system can be turned on or off via a switch.

 

August 16th, 2006.

On August 16th, we re-installed a 9,600 BTUs per hour Solar Hot water Sun Trapper collector. The system is installed in Windcrest ,Northeast San Antonio.  The solar hot water system has 4 X 12' solar collector and one 40  gallon solar storage tank.  This system was installed in 1985 by Sun Trapper during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 1,900-square foot home thousands of dollars in   hot water over the years.

 

July 19th, 2006.
On July 19th. Solartech installed a Solar Attic ventilation fan in Northwest San Antonio. We installed two 1,100 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs) solar attic fans. The residence had at Texas basement the was leaking excess heat into the living space.
In addition to the solar attic fans, we installed eight solar screens. The customers targeted specific areas were the sunlight was impacting their day-to-day activities.  These areas are the kids TV room, the dinning room, the entertainment room, the game room, and the older boy's room. Solar screens reject approximately 76% of the solar radiation (approx 175 Btu per square foot).  For this application we estimate that the solar screens reject approximately 100,000 Btu per day (about 9-Tons of air condition cooling).
The customers wanted to add a solar dc fan system to remove some of the excess heat from a small shed they have in the back yard.  We designed a 200 CFM solar exhaust system for the shed.  The system have two 100CFM fans that are controlled by a thermostat.

 

June 29th, 2006.
On June 29th. Solartech installed a Solar Attic ventilation fan in Valley Hi residence. The 3,000 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 500 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs). We installed a 12 inch DC fan that moves and average of 600 to 850 (CFMs).  The DC fan is mounted on the western attic gable.  We selected this location because the eastern gable is shaded and therefore cooler than the western one.  This will definitely give attic space an average 10 degrees air supply. The attic fan is operated by an 10 watt, 12 Volt crystalline panel.  The solar attic fan system is equipped with a wall mounted switch that will prevent the much wanted attic heat during the winter.

 

May 27th, 2006.
On May 27th., We performed minor repair on a Drainback solar hot water system in Floresville, Texas.  The system has been saving the ranch owner money over 20 years.  The 48 square foot solar water heater system delivers 9,600 Btu per hour to the 5,000 square foot ranch.

 

January 6th, 2006.

On January 6th,  we completed a retrofit on the drain down solar hot water heater and a leak repair on the solar pool heating systems. The 1,800 square foot country style home is located in the Fair Oaks, Texas. The drain down system consist of a 82 gallons solar tank and two fourteen square foot solar collector(5,600BTU/Hour). The solar pool heating system has 512 square foot solar vinyl collector(102,000BTU/Hour).  The solar hot water drain down and the pool heating systems have been out of service for close to two years.  The solar drain down system is ideal for areas that experience frequent below freezing weather. The system has a solenoid valve that drains the solar collectors when the ambient temperature reaches freezing to prevent  panel damage.  The main disadvantage to that technique is the system dumps potable water. The most frequent problems  with drain down solar systems is drain valve failure.  The drain valves would get stuck and caused to the panels to freeze.  We recommended the client to retrofit the system from drain down to freeze protection water re-circulation system.  This means that the system prevent to panels from freezing by circulating water water out of the solar tank up to the collector to keep them from freezing. The water re-circulation system system may use up some of the heat it collected during the day, but it does not dumps potable water. The Solar Pool heating panels was leaking in several places, and therefore needed to be repaired.  In addition to the leaks, the system was missing air venting and vacuum relief devices.  After the recommended repairs, both solar systems are back in service again.

 

November 10th, 2005.
On November 10th., We performed minor repair on a Drainback solar hot water system in Georgetown, Texas.  The system has been saving the homeowner money over the years-- especially during the summer  season.  Over the summer, the homeowner, disconnects her conventional electric heater and let the Solar hot water heater provide free hot water to the three bedroom  home.

 

September 1st, 2005.
On September 1st. Solartech installed a Solar Attic ventilation fan in a Boerne, Texas residence.  This Boerne home has a 5,500 attic volume demanding  an average air change rate between 4 to 8 times an hour. We installed a 12 inch Venturi DC fan that moves and average of 500 to 750 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).
The Venturi fan is operated by an 18 watt, 12 Volt crystalline panel.  Attics without motorized vents can reach up to 150 degrees Fahrenheit.  A 150 degree attic could require an additional  4,000 BTUs an  hour to maintain living space at a comfortable temperature.

 

August 27th, 2005.
On August 27th we installed solar patio lights at the Burgos' residence in northwest San Antonio.  This patio light is the second of its kind in San Antonio.  Due to energy and cost savings, we used LED light bulbs  instead of conventional  lighting (fluorescent, tungsten, halogen, and incandescent) .  A 1.7watt LED light could easily replace a 7 watt fluorescent light bulb.
	The required photovoltaic panel and battery storage necessary to operate a 1.7 watt LED light bulb is a fraction of what would be needed to operate a 7 watt fluorescent light. The Burgos residence's Solar LED patio lights consist of a 12 volt , 17 ampere-hour Lead-Acid battery, a 10 watt crystalline module, a 6 amp solar control/charger and  one each 1.7 and 4.3 watt  LED light bulbs.  The 1.7 and 4.3 Watt light bulbs have 18 and 45 LEDs, respectively.

Sun Energy Systems and Solartech Technology's Joint Venture Installations

 

March 28th., 2013.
On March 28th., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repair to a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar space heat and hot water heater in Blossom Hills, San Antonio, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the early 90s.  The solar space heat system consist of a 38,400 Btu solar thermal array, a 199,000 Btu natural gas boiler, and 480 gallons of solar water storage.  The solar space heat system is responsible for heating 3,700 square feet home.  We replaced the solar storage tank sensor.   The defective sensor kept the circulator pump operating at all times.  The high efficiency controller modulate the speed of the pump depending on how much heat is in the collector array and the tank-- more sun, more speed.
The damaged sensor rendered the modulating feature of the control useless.   We also replaced the 199KBTU boiler's temperature and pressure relief valve since it was leaking.  The space heat system is layout in several zones to increase comfort in all areas.  If the solar storage or the solar collector array is unable to deliver heating, there is a controller that will bypass the solar heat and route water only to the boiler.  This  emergency backup feature prevents human discomfort during cloudy days or winter days.   We replace the zone valve that divert water flow from the solar tanks to the boiler.

 

September 8th., 2012.
On September 8th., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repair to a SunTrapper solar hot water heater in North San Antonio, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the mid 90s.  This house also has a solar pool heater and a Photovoltaic array to supplement the home's electrical needs.  In addition to the other energy saving systems, the home owner install two solar attic fans to remove heat from the attic and reduce this air conditioning bill in the summer.
The solar hot water controller was damaged by a lighting storm weeks earlier.  The solar hot water controllerwas analog Goldine with a digital display.  During the 90s, this controller was among the most advance because it could collect and store temperature data such as highest, lowest, and average storage temperatures.
Goldline discontinued the built-in and remote digital display version of its controllers.    Therefore we had to research among the current manufacturers to find a suitable replacement. Amazingly we found an IMC controller that even use the same number of connectors to send data to the digital display.   The new controller even display upper limits and pump operation.

June 22nd., 2012.
On June 22nd., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repair to a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in downtown San Antonio, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the 2000s.  The solar thermal collector suffered a leak from previous freeze damages.

 

May 3rd., 2012.
On May 3rd., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repair to a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in downtown San Antonio, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the 2000s.  One of the efficiency accessories had to be replaced due to wear and tear.

 

April 4th., 2012.
On April 4th., Sun Energy Systems finished installing  a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in Canyon Lake, Texas.  The solar hot water heater will supply the 2,200 square feet home with most of, if not all of it hot water needs.   It was installed on the south roof which is ideal for solar collection.   The standing seam roof is a
smart upgrade since it will reject most of the solar radiation during the day.  In addition to the metal roof, the home owner installed a radiant barrier roof deck.  This radiant barrier feature will not only reject heat from the attic in the summer, but will also trap heat generated during the winter season by the furnace.  This will save the home owner in their utility bills year round.   We installed a 50 gallons solar storage tank in the attic and a High efficiency digital solar hot water controller.  The solar water heater will pre heat water for the existing electric backup water heater.

 

March 29th., 2012.

On March 29th., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repair to a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar space heat and hot water heater in Blossom Hills, San Antonio, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the early 90s.  The solar space heat system consist of a 38,400 Btu solar thermal array, a 199,000 Btu natural gas boiler, and 480 gallons of solar water storage.  The solar space heat system is responsible for heating 3,700 square feet home.  We had to remove limestone buildup from the boiler heat exchanger.

 

November 17th., 2011.
On November 17th., Sun Energy Systems perform seasonal system check to a Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in Leon Valley, Texas.  The solar water heater was install back in the 80s.  We tested the freeze protection system and it is still operating after all these years.

 

August 27th., 2011.
On August 27th., we installed a new glazing on a   Residential 2.8Kw Solar Hot Water heater in Encino Park (north San Antonio), Texas.  The drain back solar hot water system was installed back in 1,986 during the Federal Tax Credit.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 3,500 square foot country home.
The solar thermal hot water heater also had a  non functioning solar hot water controller.   We installed a new Steca digital controller.  The new controller is several times more powerful than the analog ones because it has an onboard micro controller. The controller will warn us in the event of collector or storage tank sensor failure, and pump failure.

 

July 7th., 2011.
On July 7th., Sun Energy Systems re-commissioned a solar pump system in Marion, Texas.  The system owner installed the solar pump system several years to supplement watering his pecan farm.  Originally he installed a single solar pump system and he like its performance.   Eventually he decided to double his water delivery by adding another solar pump to the system.  The original solar system delivers on average 2,400 gallons per day.   The original install was outfitted with a passive solar
tracker which adds about 30% more water delivery than a fix solar system.The original solar pump system supplied approximately 15% of the farm's total water requirements.  The second pump system will increase the solar pump contribution to 30%.   The remaining farm water requirement is supplied by the municipality of Marion.

 

April 14th., 2011.
On April 14th., Sun Energy Systems perform major repairs to a dual Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in north central San Antonio, Texas.  The solar pool heater was install back in the mid 80s.  The pool heater has (14) fourteen 32 square feet copper collectors and it heats a 1,500 square feet pool.

 

April 6th., 2011.
On April 6th., Sun Energy Systems perform major repairs to a dual Sun Energy Systems TB4800 solar hot water heater in north central San Antonio, Texas.
The collectors suffered freeze damage this past winter.  While being way on vacation, the homeowner turned off the water supply to the house to prevent water damage inside the home.  Even though the solar hot water heater has an electrical and mechanical freeze protection, they all rely on having city water pressure.
Both panel had freeze damages including roof exposed plumbing.  The system is outfitted with 48 square feet of collectors and 80 gallons of solar water storage.  The system was installed back in the mid 1980's during the Jimmy Carter years (60% income tax credit era).

 

March 16th., 2011.
On March 16th., Sun Energy Systems perform a minor repair and  routine maintenance to a solar hot water heater in West Wood Park in Northwest San Antonio, Texas.
The solar hot water heater is outfitted with one of 48 square foot Suntrapper collector Series.  This solar water heater is an indirect type and therefore it required a an antifreeze change periodically.  We were called out to stop a pin hole leak.  We added pipe insulation where it was needed.

 

March 16th., 2011.
On March 16th., Sun Energy Systems perform a routine maintenance to a solar hot water heater in Garden Ridge, Texas.  The solar hot water heater is outfitted with one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  We added pipe insulation where it was needed.   The solar hot water heater was installed in the summer of 2,006.

 

February 26th., 2011.
On March 16th., Sun Energy Systems perform a minor repair to a solar pool heater in Alamo heights, Texas.  The solar pool heater had a leak at the vacuum breaker.

 

February 26th., 2011.
On February 26th., Sun Energy Systems retrofitted solar storage tank in West Wood Park, Northwest, San Antonio, Texas.  The Solar hot water heater was installed back in the mid 80s during the 60% income tax credit of the Jimmy Carter administration.  Servomatic solar hot water heaters are considered passive systems since they don't have any solar controls and pumps.
The panels are the solar collectors and storage at the same time.We retrofitted the Servomatic solar hot water heater because of the hail damage it suffered late last year.  We presented several solar hot water heater options to the contractor such as passive, indirect, and direct heaters.  They choose to have us implement a direct solar hot water heater.

 

October 16th., 2010.
On October 16th., we changed the propylene glycol and performed some plumbing upgrades in Fredericksburg, Texas.   The solar hot water heater is a 9.6kBtu solar indirect heater.   It has a 60 gallons solar storage tank with internal heat exchanger.  The system has three 4.8KBtu Solartech collectors.
The solar water heater was installed back in the mid 80's.  In addition to the Propylene glycol change out, we upgraded the plumbing to facilitate future change outs.   The solar water heater owner have always change out the Propylene Glycol himself.  The plumbing upgrade reduce the change out complexity.

 

October 5th., 2010.
On October 5th., Sun Energy Systems assisted roofers when they replace the roof on a North Central San Antonio, Texas.  The solar hot water heater is outfitted with one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  We disconnected the solar hot water collector and relocated it until the roofer replace the old roof.

 

September 22nd., 2010.
On September 22nd., we and our roofing partners conducted minor roof repairs around a solar hot water heater in North central San Antonio, Texas.   The 12.8KBtu solar hot water heater was installed by Sun Trapper more than a decade ago.  The new homeowner called us out to verify that the system was working and to instruct them about how the system works.
The solar hot water heater is of drainback configuration--that means that all the water in the collectors drain back down in to a small storage tank after the circulation pumps is deactivated.  The solar hot water heater have been supplying hot water to the 3,000 square feet home since the early nineties.

 

August 3rd., 2010.

On August 3rd., we installed a new solar panel on a existing solar gate opener in Shavano Park, Texas.   The solar panel deteriorated after many years of services.   Most solar gate openers have an amorphous photovoltaic module due to their self-regulating features. Their counterpart, the Crystalline modules, become a short at night (damaging the battery) and can overcharge the battery during the day.  In addition to their self-regulating features, the amorphous modules perform better in warmer weather and cloudy conditions.

 

July 31st., 2010.

On July 31st., Sun Energy Systems replaced the solar storage tank in a Terbon  collector in North Central San Antonio, Texas.  We attributed premature tank failure due to water softener malfunction. The solar hot water heater is outfitted with one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  Sun Energy Systems retrofitted the Sun Trapper drainback to a direct recirculation solar heater in 2,005.   The solar storage tank was still under manufacturer's warranty.

 

May 21st., 2010.
On May 21st., Sun Energy Systems replaced the absorber plate in a Terbon  collector in Hill Crest, Texas.  The collector suffered freeze damage this past winter. The solar hot water heater is outfitted with one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  The system pre-heats water for a 40 gallons gas backup heater.  The system was installed in the late 90s.

 

March 2nd., 2010.
On March 2nd., Sun Energy Systems retrofitted  a SunTrapper Solar hot water heater in downtown San Antonio, Texas.  Since SunTrapper solar is not in business any longer, we outfitted one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  The system heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup heater.  The system was installed in the summer of 2,000.   The original collectors suffered freeze damage this past winter.

 

January 23rd., 2010.
On January 23rd., Sun Energy Systems along with AAA Alamo heating and cooling and Solartech implemented Dual zone HVAC system.   The home is located in downtown San Antonio, Texas.  The home was built in the 30's.  We divided the 1,400 square feet home into two major zones: (1) Living room, dinning, and kitchen, bedroom, (2) Master bedroom. This zoning layout will allow the homeowner to turn off the main zone during the night hours.
Before the zoning implementation, the home had a 4 ton central A/C and 60kbtu natural gas furnace.    The homeowner took advantage of CPS' energy efficiency rebate program by adding insulation to the attic.   This effectively reduced his heating and cooling needs.   AAA Alamo Heating  & Cooling replace the existing 4 ton central unit with two 2 ton  high efficiency compressors and a new condenser unit.    The compressors will activate in stages or as required.   This feature will further enhance the homeowner savings since he will avoid the expensive startup cost associated to the typical 4 ton compressor.  Since the system has been implemented, the homeowner has seen a 20 to 30% reduction in his energy cost.

 

July 9th., 2009.
On July 9th., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a Xantrex 4Kw Solar off-grid power system in South west Uvalde, Texas.   The Hunting ranch is outfitted with a 0.7kW photovoltaic array that supply all the electrical needs of the 3-bedroom ranch.
The off-grid power system feeds single phase 120/240VAC power into the ranch to operate lights, ceiling fans, microwave, TV satellite appliances.  The ranch also has a propane gas refrigerator.
The solar off-grid system has a 32,000 watts of battery banks storage.  The battery bank has six 225 amphere hour sealed marine gel batteries.  These marine batteries require no maintenance by the ranch owner.
In case of heavy clouds for several days or power shortage, the solar generator also has a 8,000 watts propane generator that starts up automatically to feed supplemental power.   After the power needs are satisfied, the generator shut itself down automatically.

 

July 3rd., 2009.
On July 3rd., Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a SunTrapper 2.8Kw Solar hot water heater in North central San Antonio, Texas.  The drainback system pre-heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup water heater.  The system was purchase from SunTrapper more than 20 years ago.
The solar hot water system needed a a few minor adjustments to the water connectors.   When the system developed water leaks around the water heater connectors, the homeowner had the system disconnected (since he could not contact SunTrapper that have gone out of business in early 2,000).   The Solar water heater has an 40 gallons solar storage and 10 square feet internal heat exchanger.  The solar water heater has been serving the three bedroom home since the mid 1980s.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The homeowner took advantage of the 40% tax credit incentives given by Jimmy Carter administration back in the mid 80s .   The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

June 11th., 2009.
On June 11th, Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a SunTrapper 2.8Kw Solar hot water heater in Garden Ridge, Texas.  The drainback system pre-heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup heater.  The system was purchase from SunTrapper more than 20 years ago.  The solar hot water system needed a new collector hot sensor.
The Solar water heater has an 40 gallons solar storage and 10 square feet internal heat exchanger.  The solar water heater has been serving the Garden Ridge home since the mid 1980s.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

May 16th., 2009.
On May 16th, Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a SunTrapper 2.8Kw Solar hot water heater in downtown San Antonio (the Alamo Dome area), Texas.  The drainback system pre-heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup heater.  This system was purcashed in May 2001 by the San Antonio Development Agency (SADA). SADA is a local government  agency that helps low income families obtain a home.
The system was installed by SunTrapper, but was retrofitted by Sun Energy System - Solartech Technologies LLC Joint Venture.   We converted the solar domestic hot water  drainback heater to direct water heater.   The Solar water heater has an 40 gallons solar storage and 10 square feet internal heat exchanger.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

May 8th., 2009.
On May 8th, Sun Energy Systems retrofitted  a G.E.D. 2.8Kw Solar hot water heater in North West San Antonio, Texas.  Since G.E.D. solar is not in business any longer, we outfitted one of Sun Energy Systems TB4800 collector Series.  The system pre-heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup heater.  The system was installed more than 20 years ago.
The Solar water heater has an 80 gallons solar storage and 10 square feet internal heat exchanger.  This system has requires a heat transfer fluid (propylene glycol) what is commonly known as non-toxic anti-freeze. The solar water heater has been serving the Atascosa home since the mid 1980s.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

March 28th., 2009.
On March 28th, Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a SunTrapper 2Kw Solar hot water heater in Atascosa, Texas.  The drainback system pre-heats water for a 50 gallons electric backup heater.  The system was purchase from SunTrapper more than 20 years ago.  The solar hot water system need a new hot water circulator pump.
The Solar water heater has an 40 gallons solar storage and 40 gallons internal heat exchanger.  The solar water heater has been serving the Atascosa home since the mid 1980s.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

February 10th., 2009.
On February 10th, Sun Energy Systems perform minor repairs on a drainback 1.5Kw Solar hot water heater in Fair Oaks, Texas.  The drainback system pre-heats water for an  electric backup heater.  The system was installed by a solar dealer more than 20 years ago.  The solar hot water system needed a new hot water collector sensor.
The Solar water heater has an 80 gallons solar storage and 10 gallons external heat exchanger.  The solar water heater has been serving the Fair Oaks home since the mid 1990s.  On Average solar water heater save the homeowner 30% on the electric portion of his or her electric utility bill.   Solar hot water heaters provide on yearly bases between 80 and 100% of the home hot water needs.  The typical payback period oscillates between 3 to four years depending on utility and state incentives.  The current energy bill provide a 30% income tax credit for tax payers.

 

January 6th., 2009.
On January 6th, we replaced the solar tank on a SunTrapper water heater.  The total system output is 9,600 BTUs per hour. The system is installed in an Atascosa, Texas, ranch.  The solar hot water system has 4 X 12' solar collector and one 40  gallon solar storage tank.  This system was installed in 1986 by Sun Trapper during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 3,500-square foot ranch thousands of
dollars in   hot water over the years.  The system owner notice a slow leak out the bottom of the tank.  Since SunTrapper has not been in business, we couldn't installed a new solar tank.  Fortunately Sun Energy Systems had a SunTrapper Drainback tank in fairly good condition.  We removed the old tank that has been in service since the mid 1980s.
The solar hot water has an electric backup heater that was installed at the same time with the solar water heater.  Typically, an electric backup heater that has a solar heater as the primary, will out last any backup heater that doesn't have one.  By minimizing the operation of the backup heater you extend its life span.

 

December 5th., 2008.
On December 5th., Sun Energy Systems Installed a Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water TB4800 System in North West San Antonio. The home owner installed a 20,000 gallons Rain Collection system that will not only provide water for domestic use, but also landscaping.    The home is outfitted with an electric backup water heater and a hot water on demand hot water system to avoid wasting rain water.
The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $600 for every this particular install while he save at least 30% of his electricity.    The solar hot water heater provides between 80 to 100% of the household's hot water needs.

 

November 20th., 2008.

On November 20th., Sun Energy Systems Installed a Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water TB4800 System in South East San Antonio. The home owner had solar and wind systems on his house while he lived in Arizona.    The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $600 for every this particular install while he save at least 30% of his electricity.  The solar hot water heater provides between 80 to 100% of the household's hot water needs.

 

July 28th., 2008.
On July 28th, we performed the typical 24 months Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) change out.  This system is located in Northwest San Antonio, Texas.  The system has been in service since 1985 and provided free hot water to the 1,800 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater.

 

June 28th., 2008.
On June 28th. Solartech installed Solar Attic ventilation fans in a Boerne residence.     The homeowner is upgrading the insulation levels in the attic and installing a radiant barrier.  The 3,333 cubit feet attic demands an average air change rate 550 Cubic Feet per Minute (CFMs).   We installed a 13 inch DC fan that moves and average of 850 (CFMs).     The solar attic fans are controlled by a adjustable thermostat.  The thermostat is set at 78 degrees to prevent the removal of necessary heat in during the Winter.  The homeowner is taking advantage of CPS' Home Efficiency Rebate Program which pays $100 for every fan you install.

 

April 21st., 2008.
On April 21st., we performed a leak repair on a Servomatic solar hot water heater in Northeast San Antonio, Texas.  The system was installed back in the mid 80s and had been in service since.   Servomatic solar hot water heaters are considered passive systems since they don't have any solar controls and pumps.  The panels are the solar collectors and storage at the same time.

 

April 21st., 2008.
On April 21st., we performed a leak repair on a Servomatic solar hot water heater in Northwest San Antonio, Texas.  The system was installed back in the mid 80s and had been in service since.   Servomatic solar hot water heaters are considered passive systems since they don't have any solar controls and pumps.  The panels are the solar collectors and storage at the same time.

 

April 17th., 2008.
On April 17th, we performed minor repairs on a series Sun Trapper drain down solar hot water heaters for Neighborhood Housing Services in Elmendorf, Texas.  Four solar heater systems were installed back in 2002.

 

March 20th., 2008.
On March 20th., we the replace the broken glazing  a  Residential 8.0Kw Solar Hot Water heater in a North Central San Antonio suburb residence.  The drain back solar hot water system was installed back in 1,984 during the Federal Tax Credit.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 4,000 square feet home.  This system was the first system of its kind installed in San Antonio by Sun Trapper.

 

September 17th., 2007.

In September 17th. we replaced an outer glazing on a 19,200 BTUs per hour Solar Space heat and Hot water system.  The hail storm that affected the Marion, Texas area two month ago damaged some of the Fiber-glass outer glazing.  The solar space heat/hot water system has four TB4800 solar collectors and two 120  gallon solar storage tanks.  This system was installed in 1984 by Sun Energy Systems during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 4,000-square foot   estate thousands of dollars in space heating and  hot water over the years.

 

May 16th., 2007.
On May 16th., we performed a routine maintenance on a solar pool heater located in Alamo Heights, Texas.  The pool is surrounded by a lot of trees and therefore require auxiliary heating.  The solar pool heater has a controller that diverts water from the return loop (after the filter) to he solar thermal collector  and back into the pool.
The collector array has (7) seven 4x12 solar pool collectors.  The collector array deliver approximately 60,000 Btu per hour of heating.  Unglazed solar pool heaters are only able to extend the swimming pool season by two months (depending on weather conditions).

 

November 1st., 2006.
In November 1st., 2006, we installed a 4,000 BTUs solar hot water heater in Lavernia, Texas. The off-grid home is outfitted with 1.5Kw electric solar modules.  By adding a  Solar hot water heater system, we are removing AC loads from the Photovoltaic system.  The SHW system is adding approximately 20-30% energy saving the solar storage bank.

 

September 12, 2006.
In September of  2006, we added 512 watts to this Lavernia off-grid home.  The photovoltaic modules we installed are superior to the previously installed crystalline modules.  We installed eight 64 watts tri-junction amorphous photovoltaic modules.  They are very light-weight and in cloudy weather there output is greater than the crystalline counter parts by more than 50%.
	In addition to the Tri-junction modules, we also installed a 60 amperes solar charger that will allow us to expand the PV module system several times before we need to install another solar charger. The Outback charger can enhance the cloudy weather operation because it allows us to

 

July 21st., 2006.
In February 2006, we replaced an outer glazing on a 44,800 BTUs per hour Solar Space heat and Hot water system.  The hail storm that affected the San Antonio area two month ago damaged some acrylic outer glazing.  The solar space heat/hot water system has six pairs of the ST6400 solar collectors and two 120  gallon solar storage tanks.  The ST series collectors are attractive to new home builders due to their roof integrated option. This system was installed in 1985 by Sun Energy Systems during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 8,000-square foot   estate thousands of dollars in space heating and  hot water over the years.

 

July 01, 2006.

On July 1st, we replaced an outer glazing on a 9,600 BTUs per hour Solar Hot water system. The system is installed on Bandera, Texas ranch.  The solar hot water system has 4 X 12' solar collector and one 40  gallon solar storage tank.  This system was installed in 1986 by Sun Trapper during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 4,000-square foot ranch thousands of dollars in   hot water over the years.

 

June 27, 2006.
On June 27th, we installed a new  Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water heater in Garden Ridge, Texas.  The Solar Hot Water Heater system provided free hot water to the 5,000 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater. The solar water heater will pre-heat two 50 gallons propane heaters.

 

June 26, 2006.
On June 26th, we performed the typical 24 months Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) change out.  This system is located in Boerne, Texas.  The system has been in service since 1986 and provided free hot water to the 1,800 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater.

 

June 20, 2006.
On June 20th, we finished  the second stage install of the 1kw off-grid solar system.  This stage will allow the homeowner to operate large appliances such as refrigerator, washing machine, range, etc.  The system also has a 1,000 ampere hour battery bank.  The Dc inverter package features a backup generator option. The generator option will not only provide AC power to the residence, but also generate Dc potential to charge the battery bank.  In order to reduce daily consumption, the homeowner can operate only one of the 2.8kw power inverters.

 

June 02, 2006.
On June 2nd, we performed the typical 24 months Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) change out.  This system is located in northwest San Antonio.  The system has been in service since 1985 and provided free hot water to the 1,900 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater.

 

May 05, 2006.

On May 5th, we installed the first phase of a 204 watts off-grid solar system.  The 1,700 square foot home is located in the outskirts of La Vernia, Texas.  This initial stage has a 450 ampere hour battery bank that will power a 3,000 watts inverter.  The second stage will have a 1,000 watts per hour solar module array.  In addition to the 1kw array, we will increase the inverter power capabilities from 3kw to 5.6kw.  Phase two is scheduled to be completed by the end of June, 2006.

 

March 03, 2006.
On June 2nd, we performed the typical scheduled 24 months Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) change out.  This system is located in northwest San Antonio.  The system has been in service since 1985 and provided free hot water to the 1,900 square foot home.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater.

 

January 31, 2006.
On January 31st, we installed a new  Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water TB4800 heater in Elmendorf, Texas.  The home was built by  Neighborhood Housing Services.

 

January 14, 2006.
On January 14th, we retrofitted the forth and last Sun Trapper drain down solar hot water heaters for Neighborhood Housing Services in Elmendorf, Texas.

 

January 12, 2006.
On January 12th, we performed welding repairs on the solar hot water collectors. The system has five ST6400 solar collectors on the roof.  The water heater system is rated at 16,000 BTU per hour.  The solar system has been in service since 1988 and has not worked on before now. The solar hot water heater system has been serving 5,000 square foot home for more than seventeen years. In addition to the solar hot water heater system, the homeowner has a 62,400 BTU per hour pool heater.  The solar pool heater replenish the heat losses from a 900 square feet pool.  Both systems were installed back in 1,988.

 

January 07, 2006.
On January 07th, we installed solar patio lights at a residence in the Canyon Springs subdivision in Stone Oak area.  This patio light is the third of its kind in San Antonio.  We installed five independent solar powered LED flood light systems.  The batteries are replenished by 5 watts amorphous solar
modules.   The amorphous solar modules have an advantage over its counterpart, the crystalline modules, they operate in cloudy weather.  Amorphous panels increase the reliability and the robustness of the photovoltaic system.
The LED flood lights are designed to operate for four hours after dusk.  This is accomplished via a sophisticated solar charger and controller.  There are two types of flood lights: a 18 LED flood light and 3 LED flood light.  These Flood lights add value the 2,500 square foot home and enhance the hill country landscape.

 

December 22, 2005.

On December 22nd, we retrofitted the third Sun Trapper drain down solar hot water heaters for Neighborhood Housing Services in Elmendorf, Texas.

 

December 21, 2005.

On December 21st, we retrofitted the second Sun Trapper drain down solar hot water heaters for Neighborhood Housing Services in Elmendorf, Texas.

 

December 19, 2005.
On December 19th, we retrofitted the first of a series Sun Trapper drain down solar hot water heaters for Neighborhood Housing Services in Elmendorf, Texas.  Four solar heater systems were installed back in 2002 and all of them have failed but one.  We retrofitted the drain down systems to water re-circulation systems.

 

December 16, 2005.

On December 16th, we remove and re-installed five  4x10 feet pool panels at a northwest neighborhood in San Antonio, Texas. The homeowner needed the pool panels removed while the roofers replaced the asphalt shingles.  The pool collectors were re-installed and tested.

 

November 26, 2005.

On November 26th, we performed our yearly freeze protection checkup and preventive maintenance on this system which is located in  San Antonio's northeast side.  The system was installed back in 1985.  The solar hot water heater system has s  TB4800 series solar collector on the roof.  The collector output is 4,800 BTU per hour.  Our yearly freeze protection & preventive maintenance checks are aimed at getting the system ready for the coming winter season.

 

September 09, 2005.
On September 9th, we performed a minor repair on Propylene Glycol (Anti-Freeze) line that feeds the solar collectors on the roof.  This system is located in northwest San Antonio.  The system has been in service since 1985 and provided free hot water to the 1.2 acre estate.  There are two 24 square feet collector rating the whole system at 9,600 BTU per hour water heater.

 

August 19, 2005.
On August 19th, we replaced the circulation pump on a solar hot tub heater system located in Stone Oak, San Antonio. The solar system has been in service for more than five years.  The solar hot tub heater is feed by four 24 square feet solar collector.  The collector network on the roof is rated at 19,200 BTU per water heater.  These collector operate for all four seasons which represent huge savings for the homeowners.

 

August 19, 2005.

On August 19th, we replaced the storage tank of a indirect solar hot water heater system located in northeast San Antonio. The solar system has been in service for more than eighteen years without any repair other than schedule 2 years propylene Glycol (anti-freeze) change out. The solar tank internal heat exchanger holds  the anti-freeze that carry out the heat transfer between solar collectors and the potable water .The system has two sixteen square foot collectors on the roof which translates to a 6,400 BTU system.

 

August 05, 2005.
On August 5th, we replaced an 8 watt fluorescent light bulb after 5 years of continuous operation without any repairs. This system was installed in May 2000 by the San Antonio Development Agency (SADA). SADA is a local government  agency that helps low income families obtain a home.  On May 2000, Sun Energy Systems designed and installed a solar hot water heater and photovoltaic system for two of SADA's low income homes.  The TB4800 Solar Hot Water heater supplies all of the Gil family's hot water needs.
The hot water panel on the roof is a TB4800 collector that has been manufactured by Sun Energy Systems for more than three decades. The Gil residence is located on Hackberry street in downtown San Antonio close to the Alamodome. There are two separate photovoltaic systems installed in the Gil Home:
(1) The first photovoltaic system operates seven 8 watt fluorescent ceiling lights, two 7 watt PL tube fluorescent table lamps, and two DC ceiling fan. All the fluorescent lights and the ceiling fans are operated using 12 volts.  The lights and fans are operating from two 100-Ampere Hour gel cell batteries, and are charged by a 64 watt amorphous module.
(2) The second photovoltaic system operates a patio light.  The patio light is operated by a 7 Ampere Hour lead acid battery, a 17 watt amorphous photovoltaic module, a 7 watt PL tube fluorescent light and a photo sensing light solar charger.  The battery is charged during the day, turns on at night, and turns off in the morning.

 

July 19, 2005.
Replaced outer glazing on a 32,000 BTU space heat and hot water system.  This system has 10 ST6400 collectors installed.  The solar system has been in service since 1981 and has not had major repair other than glazing replacement.

 

April 24, 2005.
Installed a Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water System in North East San Antonio . A Drain back hot water system was previously installed at the residence.  After several expensive repairs and constant maintenance, the owner decided to install a brand new (TB4800) maintenance free and more efficient solar hot water system.

 

May 14, 2005.

Installed a Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water System in South East San Antonio. This installation is part of a continuing effort with Neighborhood Housing Services, a local non-profit organization that helps low income families acquire homes in our great city.  NHS decided to install brand new TB4800 systems in their community.  This decision was based on the previous successes the San Antonio Development Agency had with Sun Energy System's hot water solutions back in May 2000.

Mauricio McNish-Jay's Design and Installs during his tenure at Sun Energy Systems

 

June 26th., 2006.
Installed a Residential 4,800 BTUs Solar Hot Water System in Garden Ridge, Texas. This installation is part of a new construction project.  We are aiding the homeowner in his effort to build an energy efficient home.
The home is built with spay in Urethane insulation in walls and ceiling.  In addition, the walls are 6 inches thick.  The solar hot water heater supplies pre heated hot water to two 40 gallons propane water heaters.  The solar storage tank holds 50 gallons of pre heated hot water.

 

March, 2004.
Performed routine maintenance on a solar pool system.  This system is located in San Antonio's Hill Country near the Medina Lake area.  The 24,000 BTUs per hour solar pool heater extends the home owner's swimming season at least 3 months.

 

March, 2004.

The Alamo Community College District's Southwest Campus, Palo Alto campus installed four LED strip lights to replace the florescent fixtures that light up their campus map.  They bought a solar LED light system that automatically activates at night and deactivates during the day.  We designed the solar LED system, if necessary, to operate for approximately 1-1/2 weeks without sunlight.  When the Palo Alto's facility engineers installed this LED lighting systems,  they avoided costs associated with fluorescent fixture including installation and operating costs.  After testing one of the solar LED lighting system for a couple of months, they bought and installed three more systems throughout the campus.

 

May, 2004
Installed a Residential 14,400 BTUs Solar Hot Water System in the Waterstone (kendall County) subdivision. The 7,600 square foot residence has three Terbon collector (TB4800).  In his continuous effort to offer his customers with cutting edge energy efficient homes, the builder (Essick Homes) decided to include a solar hot water heater.

 

May, 2004

In May 2004, we installed an indirect solar hot water system in a  North Central San Antonio.  This Solar Hot water system is called an indirect system because the potable water is not heated directly; instead, we heat up propylene Glycol (anti-freeze) that is circulated into a heat exchanger tank to heat up the potable water. We installed a TB4800 solar hot water collector that produces 4,800 BTUs per hour.

 

May, 2004

In May 2004, Sun Energy Systems retrofitted four Sun Trapper Drain Back solar hot water systems.  These solar hot water systems were financed by the San Antonio Development Agency (SADA) in 2000.  These solar systems start to gradually  fail after a couple years in service.  Sun Energy systems was called in by SADA to install a more dependable solar hot water system.  We remove the drainback tanks, installed solar hot water storage tanks, as well new hard copper piping and new freeze protection systems.

 

February, 2004
In February 2004, we installed a solar pump in Marble Falls, Texas.  This solar pump provides fresh water for the ranch owner's cattle.  This Solar system pumps approximately 3 gallons per minute from a depth of 75 feet.  The DC pump is powered by two 75 watt crystalline solar modules, and controlled by an 8 amp regulator that increases the pump delivery by 20%.

 

December, 2003

In February 2003, we replaced an outer glazing on a 44,800 BTUs per hour Solar Space heat and Hot water system.  The solar space heat/hot water system has six pairs of ST6400 solar collectors and two 120  gallon solar storage tanks.  This system was installed in 1985 by Sun Energy Systems during the 40% federal credit.  This system has been saving the 8,000-square foot   estate thousands of dollars in space heating and  hot water over the years.

 

August, 2002
In August 2002, we reinstalled two 65W Siemens and 70 watts photo voltaic modules on a 30 feet RV. The modules were installed on a RV that washed away in  the Guadalupe river during the 2002 great flood. The only thing the RV owners could salvage were the three solar modules on the roof. We added 240 ampere hour more to the existing 800 ampere hour battery bank.  The new controls would operate six florescent lights, a 13" TV, a satellite dish, a VCR, a laptop and a 300 watts stereo system.