Specifications
when pulling the T1 wire through the roof space. The collector sensor wire must not be run underneath the 
insulation against the metal pipe as  high temperatures  will interfere with accurate readings  to the controller 
and can damage the wire. 
6.3.2. Temperature Sensor Installation - Collector
a) Sensor  Well  Location:  The temperature should be measured at the hottest point  in the collector: the 
outlet of the collector manifold or the outlet of the last collector manifold in a series. There is a temperature 
sensor well next to both plumbing ports  on the collector. This  allows  whichever port is  most convenient for 
the particular installation to be chosen as the outlet.
b) Sensor Insertion:  The solar  controller’s  temperature sensor should be coated with a thin layer  of heat 
transfer paste (same as  is  used on the heat pipe bulbs)  and inserted into the sensor well to the full depth.  
The fit may be a bit loose. 
c) Water Ingress: Use a silicone sealant to prevent water  ingress  and to help secure the sensor inside the 
well.
d) High Temperatures:  Ensure that sensors  and, in particular, the sensor  wire used on the  collector  are 
high temperature rated 395
°
F (200
°
C). Make sure that the wire can also be used in an exterior environment. 
e) Sensor Wire: 
i) Do not run the wire directly against the metal pipe as the wire may be damaged, instead run outside 
the insulation. 
ii) Do not run the wire inside conduit with electrical cables (check local electrical code). 
iii) Use cable ties (11”cable ties  fit nicely around 3/4” pipe with 3/4” wall insulation) to secure at regular 
intervals. Avoid loose, drooping wire, keep it close to the insulation. 
iv) Some line-sets  include a wire beneath the outer wrap. This should be connected to the sensor wire 
with  good  quality,  watertight  soldered  or plug  connection.  There  are  weather-resistant  connectors 
available with a silicone crush pack inside, these are ideal. 
v)  The wire can be  extended up  to 60’ (20  m)  using appropriately  rated 18/2  thermostat wire.    For 
longer  distances,  thicker  gauge wire may be needed.   After  installing sensors  with long extensions, 
check  to ensure accurate temperature readings  are being provided.   The easiest way to do this  is  to 
have a cup of cold water  and a cup of hot water along with a hand held digital thermometer; simply 
compare the readings from the sensor on the controller to the hand held readings. 
vi)  Ensure the wire is  not able to rub  against  any  surfaces  that could cause wear or  cut  the  casing.  
Poor sensor readings  are often caused by electrical interference with the wire or exposed wiring shorts 
etc.
6.3.3. Temperature Sensor Installation - Tank
a)  Solar  Ready  Tanks:  All tanks  recommended  for  use in Apricus OG-300 systems have  a  sensor  well 
located at the bottom of the tank. Refer to tank manufactures installation guide for exact location. 
 NOTICE
All  sensor  wiring  must  be  protected  from  environmental  influence  which  would  otherwise 
effect their intended operation. 
6.4. Electrical & Sensor Connection
a) Diagram below provides details of the power, relay and sensor connections.
Apricus Solar Collector Installation & Operation Manual - USA
Copyright © 2011 – Apricus Inc Doc: A7-05.4.12-PB Page 46 of 129










