WHAT IS A SOLARBEE?
The SolarBee is a floating solar-powered reservoir circulator. Depending on model the SolarBee is 10-17 feet in diameter and the flow rate is 1,250-10,000 gallons per minute. The SolarBee creates a 4-6 foot diameter column of rising water below the machine and spreads this water gently across the top of the reservoir in a long distance flow pattern. While most mixers and aerators can influence only 0.5 surface acres, SolarBees can impact up to 45 surface acres per machine. The SolarBee's mixing action has many positive effects on the water quality in lakes, wastewater ponds, and potable water reservoirs.

HOW MANY SOLARBEE MACHINES ARE NEEDED IN EACH RESERVOIR?
The quantity depends on many factors, type of water, problems to solve, detention time, environment and others. To have us make a determination for your reservoir(s), please contact us or fill out the request estimate form.

HOW MUCH MAINTENANCE DOES THE SOLARBEE REQUIRE?
There are no required-maintenance schedules, though SolarBees should be inspected periodically to ensure proper operation. The SolarBee is constructed of corrosion resistant 316 stainless steel and various plastic components. Brushless motors are standard. There are no gearboxes or other lubrication points. In some environments the solar modules should be cleaned periodically for maximum machine performance.

HOW HARD IS THE SOLARBEE TO ASSEMBLE AND INSTALL?
All machines are assembled and installed by factory personnel. Installation requires 3 - 6 hours per machine depending on size of reservoir, type of water quality analysis required for proper placement of machine(s), and reservoir conditions at the time of installation. Depending on the model, the machine weight ranges from 400 - 700 pounds, excluding the mooring blocks.

HOW IS THE SOLARBEE ANCHORED?
In large reservoirs the SolarBees are usually moored with two concrete mooring blocks (provided). In small reservoirs they are sometimes tethered to shore with stainless steel cable.

DOES THE SOLARBEE WORK ON CLOUDY OR OVERCAST DAYS?
Yes. SolarBees are designed to run 24 hours per day at full speed off of solar power, but they may slow down to less than full speed during periods of extended cloudy weather. Even though the rotating speed is reduced, the SolarBee is still very effective. The solar panels and electronic controller are over-sized to provide adequate power despite cloudy or overcast conditions. A low-cost solar insolation meter is available to check SolarBee performance in relation to the amount of power being supplied by the suns rays.

WHAT ABOUT ICE FORMATION AND SEVERE COLD?
In thin ice the impeller will still rotate since an oil-filled polymer tube surrounds the stainless steel impeller shaft. Depending on the model, the SolarBee will have either freeze slots or positive water flow from under the distribution dish to help prevent freeze ins. If severe winter conditions persist the SolarBee may freeze in totally; there is no damage from ice, and after the ice melts the SolarBee will start running again.

WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THE SOLARBEE IS IN SHALLOW WATER?
The support legs allow the SolarBee to rest on the reservoir bottom during low water levels. The SolarBee is not damaged by running dry.

ARE THERE ANY ACCESSORY KITS THAT CAN BE ADDED TO A SOLARBEE?
Yes. The following accessory kits are available: (1) 24-Hour Shore Power Kit for wastewater systems, to provide extra power during winter. This kit requires a standard 110 volts a.c.(2 amps, 220 watts) power connection. (2) Chemical Injection Kit for injecting chemicals or biological control organisms. (3) Buoy Marker Kit with solar beacon light (Coast Guard approvable) for increased visibility on reservoirs with boat traffic. (4) Bird Deterrent Kit for preventing birds from roosting on solar panels. (5) Salt Water Kit with anti-barnacle coating.

WHAT ABOUT WARRANTY?
The machine is covered by a limited 2-year parts and labor warranty. A copy of the warranty is in the owner's manual and will be provided upon request.