CSLB C-46 Solar Contractor flashcards

The optimal method of plumbing a solar thermal heat exchanger to a domestic hot water storage tank to maximize stratification and heat transfer efficiency.

• Heat coldest water first
• Dedicated lower port on solar-ready tanks
• Promotes thermal stratification
• Maximizes solar contribution

Memory trick: Solar heat's best friend, the tank's cold end.

For ground-mounted PV on uneven terrain, extensive grading and leveling are the primary cost drivers during site preparation due to significant earthwork requirements.

• Uneven terrain requires substantial earthwork (cut/fill).
• Heavy machinery, fuel, and labor are expensive.
• Soil import/export adds to costs.

Memory trick: Uneven land means heavy machines, heavy costs.

Selecting the correct wire gauge for electrical circuits, especially for continuous loads, to prevent overheating and ensure compliance with electrical codes.

• Continuous loads require 125% ampacity rating
• NEC tables specify ampacity for wire gauges
• 14 AWG is common minimum for residential branch circuits

Memory trick: Pump's current, continuous, then add a quarter; wire it right, or face the fire starter.

Shading analysis is the most critical initial step in PV site assessment, as it directly impacts system performance and cannot be easily mitigated after installation.

• Even partial shading can drastically reduce PV output.
• Must consider seasonal and daily sun paths.
• Identifies optimal array placement to maximize energy harvest.

Memory trick: Sunlight is King, shade is the assassin.

A fault in a thermistor-type temperature sensor or its wiring where the electrical resistance drops to near zero, causing the controller to interpret an artificially high temperature.

• Leads to erroneous temperature readings
• Can cause continuous pump operation
• Requires testing sensor resistance or replacing

Memory trick: Pump runs wild, temps are lies; sensor's shorted, the system cries.