Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark 15K AC Coupling

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Jason...
We had a similar situation with a dual SolArk 15K system. After
approximately an hour of turning system on we would get the F41 error on
the master ‐ the slave inverter would show an error and then the master
would shut down with the paralleling error F41 because the slave inverter
had shown an error related to a neutral ground bond in more than one place
detected.. we confirmed there was not more than one neutral/ground bond in
the system.  It didn't seem to matter which loads or total power levels it
kept shutting down with the same pattern.
They had us revert both firmwares back to the 925 version instead of 926.
Same problem still with either firmware version.
Finally we disconnected the slave and ran the master on its own- like magic
- Problem solved.
Upon close inspection we noticed that  the slave unit had different color
PV input terminals than the master. There were different capacitors up
above the AC in/out terminals and some adittional circuitry we guessed
related to a rapid shutdown heartbeat signal for the solar circuits.
Turns out the inverters were different vintages of the same model of 15K-2P
inverter but the boxes they shipped in were the same part numbers- but
there were obvious differences in the physical build and circuitry.
We pointed this out and they agreed to send us a replacement inverter of
the same vintage as the master...
This solved the f41 paralleling issue we were having.  They also said the
925 firmware was better for all the inverters to be on in multi inverter
systems versus the more sensitive (and newer) 926 firmware. We havent had
an issue since matching vintages of inverter build were used.
Look carefully at all three inverters and make sure they are physically the
same build version.
It was a frustrating detective experience and we bore the costs associated
with replacing the inverter.
If that is a facet of your system I would ask them to replace your
inverter(s) to be the same build vintage. It solved the problem for us but
was a long battle with tech support to seluth out the problem and to get
them to agree to swap inverters.
Good luck and keep us posted on your resolution.
Thanks.
Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks




On Sat, Aug 24, 2024, 11:32 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi all,
>
> Over the last three days I have had one of this infuriating and
> frustrating experiences with Sol-Ark where you talk to 3 people and get 10
> different answers. At least I think I finally got the right one today. Here
> is the scenario and problem I was experiencing:
>
> At a (very) remote location that is a boat ride away, I have three 15K
> inverters paralleled in a 120/240V system, off-grid, generator connected to
> the grid input (but not being used). The PV array connected to the DC
> inputs totals 40kW split across the three inverters. There is a 9.7kW
> Enphase system (8.4kW AC inverter rating) connected on the load side of the
> inverter outputs. Massive battery - 110kWh. Everything has been working
> well for a couple of weeks since we got it set up.
>
> Then, over the last three days, we began experiencing unexpected shutdowns
> where the inverter would repeatedly stop inverting and PV would stop
> charging. There was usually no indication of errors on the screen.
> Everything was just stopped, but the inverters remained on. Sometimes they
> would restart once, only to shut down again relatively quickly. We had to
> manually restart the inverters with the ON/OFF buttons. Then we started
> getting various errors, with F50 being the strange one that is not
> documented. I reached Sol-Ark, and they said the F50 points to an AC input
> issue, but the generator was not on, so that didn't make sense. I was on my
> own to double-check all of the wiring.
>
> But there was also an F41 Parallel System Stop error, which pointed me to
> that suggested cause. I realized that one of the inverters had a -1725 COMM
> firmware, whereas the others had -1726. I don't know how that happened
> because I'm certain that I had them all on the same firmware at one time.
> Anyway, I spent all day yesterday trying to reach Sol-Ark and getting the
> firmware to match. I thought we had the issue resolved by the time I
> left, as I was able to run the system for an hour without a shutdown.
>
> Then I got a call at noon today from the owner. Same problem. System shut
> down.
>
> I was able to reach Sol-Ark immediately this time and the agent gave me a
> more plausible answer. He said the F50 error points to something wrong with
> the AC coupling. We started to put our heads together and I realized that
> this issue first popped up around mid-day on Thursday, and then repeated
> itself mid-day on Friday. Here we are again today, and I get the call at
> noon. It seems like the issue happens as soon as the batteries reach 100%
> capacity. It's like the Sol-Ark is not commanding the IQ8A microinverters
> to shut down. I had the owner shut off the AC co

Re: [RE-wrenches] Midnight solar AIO webinar

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

When? Info or link?
Thanks
Kirpal

On Tue, Aug 13, 2024, 6:21 AM Jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> midnite is having a webinar about the AIO and batteries.
> Sign up.
> Jay
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[RE-wrenches] Blue Planet Energy

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Hi Folks
Anyone else having trouble getting ahold of Blue Planet Energy? They aren't
returning calls even to sell new productI am wondering if they are
still a going concern
With all the changes these days I am.just buckling in for the solar coaster
ride!!!
Thanks!
Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 1000 Vdc Suppliers

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

DC Sunvolt.
L
Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks

On Sun, Aug 4, 2024, 6:15 AM Mac Lewis via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> Does anyone have a good recommendation for a 1000Vdc equipment supplier?
> Disconnects, combiners, fusing etc is what I am looking for.
>
>   I have found it difficult to get any type of response from Terrasmart or
> Shoals
>
> Thanks!
>
> --
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
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Re: [RE-wrenches] I know you've all said, "I told you so..." SolarEdge...

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Friends - are you installing surge arrestors on your PV input conductors
and grid side AC conductors to hopefully prevent some of the surge and
lightning related damages to inverters? We use SolarEdge often and have
other issues which frustrate us but not often surge related issues.  We
usually will install Midnite MNSPD devices on either side of inverter (DC
and AC) and surge related issues have been very minimal to non-existent. I
know many of you are in areas with much higher incidences of lightning and
grid tribulations than our area.  It does add more expense to the systems
up front but, hopefully it saves significantly more expense and frustration
down the line.
Yes no doubt SolarEdge has a LOT of room for customer service improvement
yet, some of the benefits of their MLPE even when installed on a roof can
be really helpful and save a lot of time troubleshooting that a string
inverter can't ever offer. And yes it is very nice to work on equipment
that isn't hot until you choose to make it so.
Enjoy the weekend!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402


On Fri, May 24, 2024 at 1:39 PM Scot Arey via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> This wasn’t an RSD rant (and thank gosh NEC2023 clarifies and reduces some
> silly RSD requirements), but a rant over the damn finick-iness of the BUI
> and multi-inverter setups from SE.
>
> I’ve developed a nervous tik that comes on with lighting and storms and
> hits a peak when phone rings from customer immediately after the
> storm…heck, even the surge from the grid utility coming back seemed to
> freak out the one I was at yesterday which was operating fine in backup
> mode.
>
> Can’t say many didn’t say, “I told you so.”
>
> Enjoy your weekends. Scot
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *William Miller via RE-wrenches
> *Sent:* Friday, May 24, 2024 3:13 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches ;
> offgridso...@sti.net
> *Cc:* William Miller 
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] I know you've all said, "I told you so..."
> SolarEdge...
>
>
>
> Sorry but my previous post went out before I finished my thoughts.
>
>
>
> I know MLPE electronics can be a pain. I hated the RSS requirements when
> first introduced. However solar energy sources pose unique safety concerns.
> There is no safety disconnect on the sun. IMHO, having a means to safely
> work on high voltage PV circuits during daylight hours is worth the added
> cost and inconvenience.
>
> With all due respect.  Rant off.
>
>
> William Miller
> Miller Solar.com
> 805-438-5600
> www.millersolar.com
>
>
>
>
>
> On Fri, May 24, 2024 at 12:25 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via
> RE-wrenches  wrote:
>
> Well to me the final, final straw is their stock price losing 2/3 its
> value in a year.
>
>
>
> I tell all of my clients if you ever have to do roof solar, you should use
> a central inverter and not ever put electronics on a roof. Bad enough to
> put solar panels up there!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar*
>
> *"we go where powerlines don't"*
>
><http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>https://offgridsolar1.com/  
> <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
>
> *e-mail  **offgridso...@sti.net* 
>
> *text 209 813 0060*
>
>
>
> On 2024-05-24 9:10 am, Scot Arey via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> SolarEdge…I keep saying they fixed their reliability issues, but the
> latest storms in Central Texas leave me again with frustration. Some
> systems worked, others did not. Worst was ones that were surge-sensitive as
> grid utility power was restored so a system in backup yesterday turns into
> a service call with the grid back, as a finicky BUI transfer switch didn’t
> go back to grid power.
>
> Make the run to the affected customer and wait and wait and wait for tech
> support, only for them to finally take my call after I’ve packed everything
> up (how long must we wait for a call pickup?) and the first question is
> “send us pics of the installation.” Of course that is to grade the work and
> despite me saying we replaced a comms card in November, and don’t you have
> that picture still? I get the tier-1 blocking before I get to tier-2.
>
> I’ve had a lot of final straws with SolarEdge, each time assuaged by a
> “we’re fixing reliability…we’ve improved tech support” but objectively,
> this company drives most of my reliability frustration. Intra-“box” comms
> are so finicky. I’ve told them they have Backup Interface Units that get
> stuck between grid and backup during the rapid on and off utility outages
> that come with many storms and they try to say “we have not seen that” b

Re: [RE-wrenches] Will SolarEdge optimizers work with other string inverters?

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

You could always AC couple the SolarEdge system via the SolArk.  Gives you
optimization and rapid shutdown and access to that solar array even when
the grid is down.
Instead of using the StoreEdge - you could use one of the basic SolarEdge
models which are cheaper.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402


On Wed, May 22, 2024 at 7:21 AM Tom McCalmont via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> No, you need to replace the SolarEdge inverter to match with the existing
> optimizers.  They will not work with Sol-Ark and vice versa.
>
>
> *Tom McCalmont*CEO, Paired Power
> pairedpower.com | LinkedIn
> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/paired-power/>
> (650) 701-7247
>
> On May 22, 2024, at 6:50 AM, Scot Arey via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> One of our customers who suffered severe storm/lightning damage will be
> getting an upgrade. I know he’ll ask me to consider replacing the SolarEdge
> StorEdge 7600 with a Sol-Ark 15 and other new lithium storage so he can
> back up more equipment.
>
> So the question is whether the SolarEdge optimizers on the roof can remain
> in place? Will the DC to DC converter perform its optimizing capability
> without the SolarEdge inverter? I do not know how the RSD functionality is
> triggered…is it PLC over the conductors and perhaps I lose that? Of course
> I’d need to consider this for the resi application.
>
> Can’t say I’ve ever seen this asked before and figure somebody here might
> know or be as curious.
>
> 
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Bootstrapping and AC Coupled Sunny Island

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

William.
We have used FM100's, 80's and 60's to charge numerous brands of lithium
batteries with no troubles.
I don't think you will have any issues in this regard.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402


On Wed, May 8, 2024 at 8:49 AM jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> HI William,
>
> Yes the FM-100 has no problem with keeping the volts pretty tight and i’ve
> not heard of any lithium related issues, and someone is bound to chime in
> if there are.
>
> jay
>
>
>
> On May 8, 2024, at 9:39 AM, William Miller 
> wrote:
>
> Jay:
>
> I am considering ditching the Sunny Boys and installing 2 Outback FM100s.
> It seems to me this might solve a few problems:
>
> 1. The cc should voltage clamp and prevent over voltage when the batteries
> go higher Z.
> 2. The CCs should start up at lower voltages as soon as the sun comes
> out.
> 3. One of the FM 100s could be configured to drive an AGS relay.
> 4. The operation would be voltage dependent, not SOC dependent.
>
> My concern is the shallow voltage/charge curve. Can I set this system fine
> enough to work reliably?
>
> Has anyone used Outback charge controllers with lithium batteries?  Any
> advice?
>
>
> William Miller
> Miller Solar.com
> 805-438-5600
> www.millersolar.com
>
>
> On Wed, May 8, 2024 at 8:30 AM jay  wrote:
>
>> Hi William,
>>
>> Since the SOC isn’t being reliable maybe due to not charging correctly?
>>
>> I would recommend going to volts for the relay driver.  Thats why I
>> suggested the tristar with RD-1.
>> Because really volts at full is the most accurate.
>> Not knowing how many PV inputs you could do a cascade.
>>
>>
>> jay
>>
>> On May 8, 2024, at 9:00 AM, William Miller 
>> wrote:
>>
>> Jay:
>>
>> Thank you for taking the time.
>>
>> We are doing just what you suggest as an interim solution.
>>
>> The shortcoming of this work-around is that the highest setting for this
>> relay function is 90% SOC. This may not be high enough to recalibrate the
>> BMS units. And again, relying on SOC to drive operational decisions becomes
>> problematic when one can’t rely on the accuracy of the SOC value.
>>
>>
>> William Miller
>> Miller Solar.com <http://solar.com/>
>> 805-438-5600
>> www.millersolar.com
>>
>>
>> On Wed, May 8, 2024 at 7:16 AM jay  wrote:
>>
>>> A possible fix.
>>>
>>> You could run a DC relay on the SB PV input that would be voltage
>>> triggered to prevent the battery volts from getting higher than you want.
>>>
>>> The SI has 2 aux relays I think?  Or could do a tristar with RD-1 relay
>>> that has 4 channels.
>>>
>>> Just a thought
>>>
>>> jay
>>>
>>> On May 7, 2024, at 11:11 PM, William Miller via RE-wrenches <
>>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>>
>>> Friends:
>>>
>>>
>>> I am still wrestling with problems integrating a Sunny Island / Sunny
>>> Boy AC coupled system to a set of 5 E-vault Max battery cabinets.
>>>
>>>
>>> As a refresher, with closed loop comms, the Frequency Shift Power
>>> Control system is not working, or not working quickly enough, and when
>>> nearing full charge, the voltage can spike up to 66 volts and the SI system
>>> shuts down.  Fortress has told me in a roundabout way that they agree this
>>> is a real problem and they are working on a solution.
>>>
>>>
>>> Another problem has reared its head:  If the E-Vaults do not get charged
>>> fully every 5 to 7 days, the BMS units SOC value becomes radically out of
>>> calibration.  The E-vault will report a higher SOC than is realistic.  The
>>> SI system starts the generator based on SOC and if the SOC is reported as
>>> high the generator don’t start.  Sooner rather than later the battery
>>> voltage gets too low and the system shuts down.
>>>
>>>
>>> I have been tweaking on the settings like days-since-full-charge to
>>> attempt to get this cycle to stop.  No definitive answer yet.
>>>
>>>
>>> Here is the reason I am writing:  Yesterday I could not get the Sunny
>>> Islands to start.  The battery voltage was 46 which should have been enough
>>> but for some reason they just would not start.  Because of this I could not
>>> charge the batteries from generator or from AC coupled solar.  I c

Re: [RE-wrenches] Another one bites the dust?

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Nicholas... I got a call from EG4 trying to get us to use their inverters
and batteries.  I told them that when they stop trying to sell products
directly to my customers and undercutting us I would consider using their
equipment.  They asked which inverter brands we were currently using.  I
replied, Outback and SolArk.  He told me..."we just bought Outback"
So just like in the past  the solar roller coaster keeps going!  The
only constant is change!
Leaves me with mixed feelings regarding Outback now!
Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks

On Wed, May 8, 2024, 8:17 AM Nicholas Ponzio via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I've been trying to get support for an old Outback Power system (GVFX dual
> stack.) I finally got a call back today from someone at a call center who
> told me that Outback Power has been sold and I need to send an email to the
> new owners to request support. Supposedly, the new company has the same
> name and email as the old company, but the phones haven't been transferred
> over yet. My scam radar alarms are ringing off the hook, but what am I to
> do? Anyone else have any luck getting tech support from the new company
> (that has the same name as the old company)?
>
> Oy!
>
>
> --
> Nicholas Ponzio
> Building Energy
> 1570 South Brownell Road
> Williston, VT 05495
> http://www.BuildingEnergyVT.com 
> "Building Solutions for a Sustainable Future"
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Re: [RE-wrenches] OutBack inverter repair.

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Zonna Energy

On Wed, Apr 17, 2024, 7:58 AM David Palumbo via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> Any up-to-date recommendations for repair of OutBack Inverters. Preferably
> eastern U.S. if possible.
>
> Thanks,
> Dave Palumbo
> Hyde Park, VT
> 802 371-8678 voice or text
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Plaques

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Lou. .
We got the Express engraver.  All in it was around 5 grand.
We were spending over $ 1500 per year ar our local trophy engraving store
plus coordinating and they would go on vacation right when we needed
placards.  For us it made sense to bring this process in house.

On Sun, Mar 31, 2024, 1:14 AM Lou Russo via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Aloha Wrenches,
>
> Kirpal, I was looking at the Vision product line. What model did you
> purchase?
>
> We work out in the boonies and driving 35 minutes to town to pick up a $75
> directory from the trophy shop is getting old.
>
> On Sat, Mar 30, 2024, 5:48 PM Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Hi Lou and all.
>> We dove all in and got a Vision Engraving machine. They offer several
>> models and the most basic version works just fine.  It was a big investment
>> but we can make our own placatds in the same day.
>> We have a dedicated cheap laptop and a vacuum attachment they sell which
>> keeps the work area clean.  There was a learning curve but we won after a
>> bit.
>> Its really nice to have and to have the flexibility makes that an aspect
>> of job management  much less complicated. My guess is that it will take 3-4
>> years to pay for itself.
>> We like having it and my only regret us that  we didnt get one sooner.
>>
>> On Sat, Mar 30, 2024, 11:57 AM Lou Russo via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Aloha Wrenches,
>>>
>>> Anyone out there making their own engraved plaques and labels?
>>> If so, is it worth it and what machine are you using?
>>> Thanks for your time and insight, it is always appreciated.
>>>
>>> Aloha,
>>>
>>> Lou Russo
>>> Owner
>>> l...@spreesolarsystems.com
>>> 808 345 6762
>>> Spree Solar Systems LLC
>>> CT-34322
>>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Plaques

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Hi Lou and all.
We dove all in and got a Vision Engraving machine. They offer several
models and the most basic version works just fine.  It was a big investment
but we can make our own placatds in the same day.
We have a dedicated cheap laptop and a vacuum attachment they sell which
keeps the work area clean.  There was a learning curve but we won after a
bit.
Its really nice to have and to have the flexibility makes that an aspect of
job management  much less complicated. My guess is that it will take 3-4
years to pay for itself.
We like having it and my only regret us that  we didnt get one sooner.

On Sat, Mar 30, 2024, 11:57 AM Lou Russo via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Aloha Wrenches,
>
> Anyone out there making their own engraved plaques and labels?
> If so, is it worth it and what machine are you using?
> Thanks for your time and insight, it is always appreciated.
>
> Aloha,
>
> Lou Russo
> Owner
> l...@spreesolarsystems.com
> 808 345 6762
> Spree Solar Systems LLC
> CT-34322
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] OpticsRE

[Kirpal Khalsa via RE-wrenches]

Add 'www' to the website address instead of just opticsre.com and it should
work...
Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks

On Mon, Dec 18, 2023, 3:17 PM Foxfire Energy via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Anyone know what’s going on with OpticsRE? Their sites been down since
> last Friday.  TIA
>
> Sent from my iPhone
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Using same PV array for water pump, battery charging

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi Larry. We did this recently.  We settled on a Square D 60A 600VDC
disconnect feeding a Midnite Solar Transfer switch with 60A, 300VDC
breakers.  We put an engraved placard on the transfer switch instructing
the customer to turn off the disconnect first then to operate the transfer
switch and when the transfer either way is completed to turn on the
disconnect again. .  It could have worked without the disconnect but we
felt that it was probably an abundance of caution to operate the transfer
switch with PV disconnected.
Our application was switching from a Grundfos pump in the summer to a
Fronius inverter in fall and the reverse in spring. .  This was a seasonal
transfer instead of daily transfer.  Certainly not automated. But
relatively fool proof and safe.
Good luck.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Thu, Feb 16, 2017 at 4:24 PM, Roy Rakobitsch  wrote:

> Arcing would only happen when disconnecting pump during sunny periods, why
> not disconnect at dusk? Connecting pump will not arc due to soft start. Not
> sure about that particular charge controller,  but some controllers can use
> Aux relay logic to do this upon full SOC. The Midnite Classic comes to
> mind. Swithcing can be done with contactor.
> Just a thought.
>
>
> Roy Rakobitsch
> NABCEP Certified Small Wind Installer®
> Certified Advanced Tower Climbing, Safety & Rescue
> Wind/PV Design Engineer
> Windsine LLC
> 631-514-4166 <(631)%20514-4166>
> www.windsine.org
>
> On Feb 16, 2017 4:24 PM, "Starlight Solar Power Systems" <
> la...@starlightsolar.com> wrote:
>
>> Hello Wrenches,
>>
>> A customer has 3250 Watt PV array @ 139Voc. The PV controller is Magnum
>> PT100. He wants to install a Grundfos SQFlex pump and be able to switch the
>> DC from the PV controller to run the pump directly. He would like to switch
>> midday after the battery (48V) is at a high SoC.
>>
>> I’m looking for a switching arrangement to do this without arcing since
>> it will be used a few times each week. Any have a recommendation?
>>
>> Thank you,
>>
>> Larry Crutcher
>> Starlight Solar Power Systems
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
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[RE-wrenches] sma -40 monitoring and tech support

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Friends!
We have been installing  the SMA-40 inverters lately. We like the physical
layout of the inverters.  They have built in wifi capabilities. On paper
this sounds good.  In practice this part of the inverters have been working
like crap.  We have multiple sites that are experiencing on going
connectivity issues even with excellent wifi signals.
We have upgraded to the latest firmware 3 times in the last 3 weeks for
inverters manufactured in late October.  Clearly they see they have issues,
due to the frequency of firmware updates.  Even the latest firmware is
proving useless.  Anyone else having trouble with these inverters?  We feel
like we are their experimentation lab and doing their R&D on our dime.
Their tech support is minimum an hour wait on hold.  We have spent more
time trying to resolve the communications issues than the actual
installation of the whole solar system took, not just the inverters.  In
fact I am typing this email as I am on hold.
Any one else having issues with this part of the inverters?  Advice on how
to deal with SMA or resolve the issues with out resorting to their useless
tech support?
Thanks!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402
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[RE-wrenches] Rolls Surrette Re-combiner caps.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Top o' the morning!
Has anyone used the Rolls Surrette recombiner caps for their series 4000
batteries? They come standard on the series 5000 batteries  Any ideas where
to source them? None of our battery suppliers we get Rolls batteries from
seem to have them.
We have used water miser caps in the past, they seem to have only moderate
resultssome customers seem to think they help with minimizing
electrolyte loss and some thinking they dont help at all.Any thoughts?



Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sub Panel Mounted on Roof Slope

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Dana.we have used the Eaton Cutler Hammer custom enclosures from their
Lincoln Flex Center They will make you any NEMA rated enclosure you
like.with a variety of box materials.  We have used them to make us
some 4X AC load centersExpensive and takes a few weeks but works well.
We order them from our local Platt Electric supply house.  Any of the
Cutler Hammer distributors should be able to order them for you.
You can do a search on Google and you will find all the info you need.
Good luck!

Kirpal
Oregon Solarworks

On Sep 29, 2016 1:38 PM, "Jason Fisher (STC)"  wrote:

I saw some interesting new AC combiners from SolarBOS at SPI. Might want to
check with them depending on exactly what you are using this equipment for.

Jason Fisher

On Thu, Sep 29, 2016 at 4:28 PM, Ryan Mayfield  wrote:

> Bentek has a product listed on their site that may fit the bill, although
> there isn’t much in the way of documentation:
> http://www.bentek.com/solar-products/disconnect-systems/ac-powerbuss/
>
>
>
> Ryan
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On
> Behalf Of *Chris Mason
> *Sent:* Thursday, September 29, 2016 1:12 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Sub Panel Mounted on Roof Slope
>
>
>
> Specify NEMA12.
>
>
>
> On Sep 27, 2016 19:30, "Dana Brandt"  wrote:
>
> Hi Wrenches,
>
>
>
> Does anyone know of a 480VAC panelboard that can be mounted flush to a 10
> degree pitched roof as opposed to vertically?
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
> Dana
>
> Dana Brandt
> Ecotech Energy Systems, LLC
> www.ecotechenergy.com
> d...@ecotechenergy.com
> 360.318.7646
>
>
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-- 
Jason Fisher
434-409-8173
stc.ja...@gmail.com


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Re: [RE-wrenches] S-5! mini vs 2 screw

[Kirpal Khalsa]

We use the Ace 2 Clamps...We like them a lot.mu h easier than the
S5'sThey are solid.We have typically shied away from the S5 mini's
because of their rock-able nature.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Thu, Jul 28, 2016 at 8:01 AM, jay  wrote:

> There is also the Ace clamp.
>
> I haven’t used it or heard any reports about it.
> Looks better in many regards than the S-5.
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
>
> On Jul 28, 2016, at 6:06 AM, Will White  wrote:
>
> The big problem I've had with the minis is when you attach them with rail
> and then walk on the rail it can pivot on the single set screw.   Often you
> have to go back and straighten out the rails before mounting the modules.
> I'd assume the resistance to uplift would be less too but that may not be a
> problem.
>
> Thanks,
> Will
>
>
> On Wed, Jul 27, 2016 at 4:28 PM,   wrote:
>
>> Hello Wrenches!
>> We're designing a larger standing seam roof array. Other than the little
>> bit of wobble from the single set screw on the mini, does anyone have a
>> strong engineering opinion on the 2 screw vs single? We've always had good
>> luck with the minis and the price is about 1/3 less.
>>
>> Thanks!
>>
>> Bruce Fiero-RMI
>>
>> *Willpower Electric, LLC*
>> *4115 S Pacific Hwy*
>> *Medford, OR 97501*
>>
>> *Phone: *541-535-3965
>> *Fax:* 541-512-0061
>> *Email:* br...@willpowerelect.com
>> *Web:* Willpower Electric, LLC
>>
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>
> --
> *Will White*
> Curriculum Developer
>
> e: w...@solarenergy.org
> w: www.solarenergy.org
> p: 802-272-309
>
> PV Installation Professional
> # 093006-34
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Re: [RE-wrenches] multiple radian installation

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jay, we typically use an external on/off/on transfer switch.you are on
a good path. With a 3 Radian system it will be a large bypass
switchExpensive!
Good luck.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Wed, May 11, 2016 at 12:15 PM, jay  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> I’m curious how folks are doing the AC bypass and AC side on a 3 radian
> 240v setup?
>
> I”m leaning on doing an external transfer switch, but curious what others
> have done.
>
> thanks
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] supply side connection - Tap connector recommendations

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi ShastaThank you for the reminder.  Safety first as they say!! Jason
hit the nail on the headCoordinating with the local utility and
inspector is what caused us to go the route of the insulation piercing taps
in the first placeWe also considered the ConnectDer meter collar.I
am sure we will use it in the futureThe local utility has not already
approved their use and in the middle of a project we didn't want to break
new ground.
Luckily for us our experienced electrician will be making the hot taps, I
will use the opportunity to remind them about safety
Cheers!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Wed, May 11, 2016 at 7:12 AM, Shasta Daiku 
wrote:

> Yes, “I get” that there is inconvenience in coordinating  with the utility
> and inspectors, permitting, and power disruption. In my world that’s just a
> given part of the process. Of course there are circumstances where
> disconnecting a utility supply is nearly unavoidable, for instance, certain
> industrial processes that run 24/7. I am aware that the practice of
> installing line side taps on energized unfused conductors is common in the
> solar industry and always thought it pretty cavalier. I have to wonder just
> how many “installers” have had real training for live work and utilize
> proper personnel safety protection. Part of the classwork for this type of
> training is watching/viewing the results of things gone wrong, even when
> the best practices are applied. An indelible impression
> will certainly be imprinted, and an attitude of "avoiding the avoidable”
> second nature.
>
> Michael
>
> On May 11, 2016, at 5:24 AM, Jason Szumlanski <
> ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:
>
> In some jurisdictions and for some utilities, pulling the meter is a MAJOR
> ordeal. Some jurisdictions require a "service change" permit on top of the
> solar permit just to have the meter pulled. It also requires getting an
> inspector out there at the perfect time to have it inspected so the the
> utility will re-install the meter. The homeowner is often without power for
> several hours, which is usually somewhere between inconvenient and
> unacceptable. Insulation piercing taps are extremely common around here for
> these reasons. With proper safety precautions and experience, I don't see
> any issue specifying and using them.
>
>
> Jason Szumlanski
>
>
>
>
> On Wed, May 11, 2016 at 12:26 AM, Shasta Daiku 
> wrote:
>
>> Kirpal, I’m curious what the reason is for making the tap on an energized
>> line. Why not have the meter pulled? While insulation piercing taps are
>> designed for “hot work”, there use for that should be limited to tapping
>> conductors that have OCP, and aren’t under load, with generous working
>> space, like in a piece of switch gear. Even in that situation, making taps
>> on energized conductors should only be done when it’s an absolute
>> necessity. I’ve got a large body of “hot work” under my belt, both line and
>> load side and will say that face shields and hot gloves saved my butt on
>> several occasions and I’ve got a nice scar on my neck from a molten piece
>> of lug from a main breaker that broke apart while I was tightening up it’s
>> mounting screw. Stuff happens. It’s always best to play it safe.
>>
>> Michael Morningstar
>>
>>
>> On May 10, 2016, at 11:04 AM, Chris Mason 
>> wrote:
>>
>> This is what we use - we keep a selection in the van for difficult jobs.
>>
>> Insulation Piercing Connector 2/0-10 AWG
>> Part #IPCS2001
>> Insulation Piercing Connector 2/0-10 AWG 2/0-4 Main, 10-14 AWG Tap, Dual
>> Rated AL9CU, Torque Limiting Nut
>>
>> On Tue, May 10, 2016 at 1:27 PM, Kirpal Khalsa 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi Folks,
>>> We have a job requiring a supply side connection.  Wondering if anyone
>>> could share some makes and models for connectors connecting to the wires
>>> between a main meter and the main breakers in the electrical panel.
>>> Ideally it would be able to be done hot.
>>> I am also looking into the ConnectDer meter collar but will have to
>>> coordinate with the utility for that and am looking to keep things simple.
>>> Thank you
>>>
>>>
>>> Sunny Regards,
>>> Kirpal Khalsa
>>> Oregon LRT#25
>>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>>> Oregon Solarworks LLC
>>> www.oregonsolarworks.com
>>> 541-299-0402
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Chris Mason
>> NABCEP Certified Sol

Re: [RE-wrenches] supply side connection - Tap connector recommendations

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Matt...Thank you!!! That is what I was after.They are ordered and on
their way.
Cheers!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Tue, May 10, 2016 at 10:45 AM, Matt Partymiller <
m...@solar-energy-solutions.com> wrote:

> Ilsco has some great options.  See:
>
>
> https://www.platt.com/CutSheets/Ilsco/Ilsco-InsulationPiercingConnectors-CatalogPage.pdf
>
> Matt
>
> Matthew Partymiller
> Solar Energy Solutions LLC
> (877) 312-7456
> m...@solar-energy-solutions.com
>
> On Tue, May 10, 2016 1:27 pm, Kirpal Khalsa wrote:
> > Hi Folks,
> > We have a job requiring a supply side connection.  Wondering if anyone
> > could share some makes and models for connectors connecting to the wires
> > between a main meter and the main breakers in the electrical panel.
> > Ideally it would be able to be done hot.
> > I am also looking into the ConnectDer meter collar but will have to
> > coordinate with the utility for that and am looking to keep things
> simple.
> >  Thank you
> >
> >
> >
> > Sunny Regards,
> > Kirpal Khalsa
> > Oregon LRT#25
> > NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> > Oregon Solarworks LLC
> > www.oregonsolarworks.com 541-299-0402
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[RE-wrenches] supply side connection - Tap connector recommendations

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi Folks,
We have a job requiring a supply side connection.  Wondering if anyone
could share some makes and models for connectors connecting to the wires
between a main meter and the main breakers in the electrical panel.
Ideally it would be able to be done hot.
I am also looking into the ConnectDer meter collar but will have to
coordinate with the utility for that and am looking to keep things simple.
Thank you


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Goofy roofing

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Panels in landscape mode with rails running peak to gutter?
On Apr 29, 2016 6:54 AM, "frenergy"  wrote:

> Recently, a customer had a metal roof (not standing seam) installed by a
> "handyman".  Pretty clean installation however for some reason he ran 1X6
> stringers across the roof  on the 1/2" plywood deck spaced about every 4
> feet (as you go from ridge to eaves).  Of course the roofing screws are at
> the stringers.  I'm sure he had a *great* reason for doing so.  So now I
> have been asked to install an array on this roof.  You can feel how "soft"
> the roof is as you walk on it of course because you are walking on
> air-below-metal for most of the roof.  Stringer locations don't jive with
> possible feet/post locations for rail.  I'm usually pretty good at problem
> solving but I'm accepting ideas.
>
> Bill
>
> Feather River Solar Electric
> Bill Battagin, Owner
> 4291 Nelson St.
> Taylorsville, CA 95983530.284.7849
> CA Lic 874049www.frenergy.net
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 60 Amp PV breaker tripping

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Did you check for loose connections?
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon Solarworks
On Apr 19, 2016 12:15 PM, "Kristopher Schmid" 
wrote:

> No recent changes, Jay.  System has been installed since 2009.
> 16 Kyocera KD180
> Wattsun tracker
> Xantrex XW4548
> Xantrex XW MPPT60-150
> 24 L16s (very tired but surviving)
>
> Could the old batteries cause the CC to pull too much PV current?  Even at
> 1.25 times the Isc of my strings, i should only be pulling 41.75A maximum.
>
> On Tue, Apr 19, 2016 at 12:03 PM, Jay  wrote:
>
>> Is this a new or old problem
>> And any changes ( equipment etc)just before the problem started?
>>
>> Jay
>> Peltz power
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Apr 19, 2016, at 9:04 AM, Kristopher Schmid 
>> wrote:
>>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> I recall a thread not so long ago where someone was having an issue with
>> a system tripping the 60 A PV input breaker.  I am unable to find it by
>> searching the archives.  I have a system with the same issue.  I tried
>> replacing the breaker but it did not solve the issue.
>>
>> Can someone connect me to that post thread and/or remind me of the
>> solution to that problem (if one was found).
>>
>> Thanks much,
>> Kris
>>
>> --
>> Shine On!
>>
>> Kris Schmid
>> Legacy Solar, LLC
>> 864 Clam Falls Trail
>> Frederic, WI 54837
>> www.legacysolar.com
>> 715-653-4295
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
>> Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician
>> BSEE
>>
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>
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> Legacy Solar, LLC
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> Frederic, WI 54837
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> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
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[RE-wrenches] 1000V rated 6AWG wire

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hello Friends!
I am looking for 1000v rated #6awg wire suitable for running in conduit
from roof top combiner down to the inverterwhat are others using for
this application? Ideally I would love to find some THHN or THWN-2 but with
1000v ratingany suggestions, sources?
Application is from a SolarEdge commercial optimizers based array which
puts out 850VDC
Thank you!
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Rooftop disconnect for multi tracker TLs

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Midnite solar MNSOB3R -4P...You can get them in a Nema 4X version too which
is nice...
Another option is DC SUNVOLT.
On Jan 22, 2016 8:00 AM, "August Goers"  wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
>
>
> We have a few jurisdictions in the Bay Area that still require rooftop DC
> disconnects. We are installing a lot of SMA TL-22 inverters with dual MPPTs
> and if the system has more than 1 string it has been hard to source a good
> disconnect option (need 4 poles for switching two ungrounded strings). Does
> anyone have a good DC disconnect idea for this application?
>
>
>
> Best,
>
>
>
> August
>
> Luminalt
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] SIPS panel roofs

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Can you get them to switch to a standing seam metal roof?  Then use seam
clamps...problem solved!  And it's a better roof as well
Good luck.
On Dec 16, 2015 5:01 PM,  wrote:

> Hi Dana,
>We have done them, but our method only works when the interior is
> unfinished, for (I guess it depends on the customer) aesthetic reasons.
> I had aluminum "plates", 8"x8" and 1/8" thick made up by a local
> fabricator. We also fabricated flashing for the topside using 12"
> aluminum. We used threaded bolts running through the SIP (9 5/8") to
> another 8"x8" metal plate  on the underside. Unfortunately, this will
> not be a finished look. The underside of the roof we installed on was
> the underside of the SIP (sheathing). 8 years later, this roof remains
> leak free and full of modules..There are obviously more details to
> the install, but I don;t think this method will work for you.
>
> Daryl
>
>
>
> > SIP ROOF INSTALLATION
> >
> >
> >
> > I was asked to install on a SIP panel roof today. 5/8" OSB over 6" of
> foam
> > on a 9:12 roof pitch at 9800' elevation with a Pro panel metal roof skin.
> > There is a finished ceiling underneath the lower side of the SIP roof
> > panel.
> >
> >
> > I explained that it was not ideal due to the lack of good attachment etc.
> > They were not concerned and said "you'll make it work!"
> >
> >
> >
> > I have done SIP panels in new construction and we could install backing
> > from
> > underneath and refoam.
> >
> > My first thought was to do 2-2.5 times the normal L feet.
> >
> > One thought was to use expanding moly-bolts.
> >
> >
> >
> > Has anyone have experience attaching to SIP roof that was not prepared
> for
> > an array?
> >
> >
> >
> >
> 
> >
> > Dana Orzel
> >
> > Great Solar Works, Inc -  NABCEP # 051112-136
> >
> > E - d...@solarwork.com  - Web - solarwork.com
> >
> > O - 970.626.5253  C - 208.721.7003
> >
> > "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988"
> >
> > P Please consider the environment before printing this email.
> >
> >
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Secure/support PV wire requirements?

[Kirpal Khalsa]

SnapNrack.The rails facilitate the same wire securing possibilities as
Williams conduit.They also have great wire clampsWorks very well on
flush roof installs as wellI am sure there are other brands of rack
that this will work with but we have lots of experience with the SnapNrack
and appreciate their design with regards to securing wires underneath the
array


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon LRT#25
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-299-0402

On Wed, Dec 9, 2015 at 11:56 AM, Benn Kilburn 
wrote:

> William,
> Are you using this method on roof top systems that are parallel to the
> roof as well?
>
> I don't want to bring up the question of what cost this adds to the
> job but here i am bringing it up!
> (labour and material, ...measuring & cutting pipe to length, cutting slots
> and "clips" on table saw, filing cut pipe edges, attaching to rails...)
> There is no doubt that your method shows attention to quality and
> workmanship however the solar biz is quite competitive and making the
> decision to use this method and its added costs would surely cost us jobs.
> I'm going to assume that you have been able to standardize and refine this
> method to reduce time and costs?
>
> All,
> I prefer to keep an assortment of wire management solutions handy on the
> roof when we are supporting PV and/or micro-inverter wiresthose being;
> thick nylon cable ties *MUST HAVE metal tooth, NOT plastic tooth* (T&B
> TY27MX), stainless steel cable ties, and a couple different types of PV
> cable clips (heyco) that attach to the rail or module frame.
>
> Assuming a typical house (shingle) roof top system where bottom of the mod
> frame rests +-4-6" off the roof surface
> If it is a single row of mods with the j-boxes on the high side, then
> securing the PV wires can usually be done after the mods are mounted and
> can be done quite well with 2-4 metal PV cable clips attached to the
> modules upper frame. Securing the PV cable to the mod frame within 12" can
> be done and if not then let your professional judgement guide you that it
> is secure and protected from coming loose and subject to potential damage
> from contact with the roof or anything else.
>
> If it is two rows of mods, one above the other, with the mod j-boxes
> meeting in the middle (perhaps sharing microinverters mounted along the
> middle rails). or any other combination of module layout, MC wire leads
> or microinverter orientation... yes, it can become cumbersome at times to
> find appropriate attachment points to secure wires... and it would be to
> time consuming and confusing to discuss the array of possibilities here...
> so again, you need to rely on your professional judgement to use the proper
> material and methods to secure any and all wires.
> This is not a task to be given to someone without an eye for detail and
> workmanship.
>
> *Benn Kilburn *
> CSA Certified Solar Photovoltaic Systems Electrician, SkyFire Energy Inc
> 6706 – 82 Ave NW | Edmonton, AB | T6B 0E7
> P: 780-474-8992 | F: 888-405-5843 | www.skyfireenergy.com
> [image: email]  [image: facebook]
> <https://www.facebook.com/SkyFireEnergy> [image: twitter]
> <https://twitter.com/SkyFireEnergy> [image: linkedin]
> <https://www.linkedin.com/company/283735?trk=tyah&trkInfo=tarId%3A1408655033432%2Ctas%3Askyfire%2Cidx%3A2-2-5>
>  [image: google] <https://plus.google.com/+SkyFireEnergy/>
>
> [image: SkyFire Energy Logo_horizontal]
>
> On Wed, Dec 9, 2015 at 11:33 AM, William Miller 
> wrote:
>
>> Rebekah:
>>
>>
>>
>> What you desire to do is not impossible.  Most module manufacturers
>> specify supports approximately 20% form each short side.  For a 66 inch
>> module this is 13.2 inches.  If you attach the factory PV leads to the
>> rail, you are close to the 12 inch requirement.  If you reduce the offset
>> to an actual 12” you are at 18% of the module width. Either way, I suggest
>> it is close enough.
>>
>>
>>
>> How to secure the leads?  Well there are “UV resistant” wire ties, but
>> the lack of longevity of these is starting to be realized.  There are other
>> clips or metal reinforced ties that may be adequate.   Clips we tried are
>> loose and/or flimsy.
>>
>>
>>
>> We have been experimenting with various procedures for over a decade.
>> Our best method so far is to slot PVC pipe and ley the leads inside.  We do
>> this on the table saw using dual blades.  The cut is sharp and needs to be
>> deburred.  Once we lay the leads in we secure them with a clip made form a
>> short section of the same

Re: [RE-wrenches] 72 cell micro inverters

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jay you also might consider Solar Edge optimizers for partial shade
mitigation.  Same effect as micro inverters...easy to implememt.

Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon Solarworks
On Oct 26, 2015 12:48 AM, "jay"  wrote:

> Thanks all for the great info.
>
> I’ve got some pretty good morning afternoon shading so micros make better
> sense than the Galvo, but I”ll check that out.
> And I’ve got some really great pricing on some 72 cell 280 watt modules.
>
> Yea I’ve heard the ABB are a nightmare.
> I’ve got no experience or info on the APS.  Anybody else have any besides
> Benn?
>
> Thanks all,
>
> jay
>
>
> On Oct 25, 2015, at 8:50 AM, Bill Hennessy  wrote:
>
> We would NOT recommend the ABB micro 3.0 inverters because of the problems
> with their wireless interface and router incompatibility.
> The install of 48 Suntech 300w modules went well, but there were 30 hours
> involved in hooking up the communications interface.
> In the end, ABB tech support had us abandon the normal interface for a
> signal of over wire home-brew set up.
>
> Bill Hennessy
> Berks Solar, LLC
> 371 Centennial Rd
> Mertztown, PA 19539
>
> o 610 682 4300
> c 484 560 4666
> NABCEP certified installer
> PA contractor #44411
> www.berkssolar.com
>
> --
> *From:* jay 
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Sent:* Friday, October 23, 2015 12:03 PM
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] 72 cell micro inverters
>
> HI All,
>
> What is the recommendation for 72 cell 280 watt  120/240v micro inverters?
>
> Enphase don’t have one.
>
> This is on my old house.  Still has a AEI-GC-1000.
> The modules have got to come off as well as they are old mobil’s.
> All just about dead.
>
> I’ve got a good deal on 72cell, 280 watt modules, so trying to find a
> micro for that or maybe a small
> And its only for 1500-2000 watts max.  Thats all I can fit.
>
> thanks
> jay
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] DPW Rack Problems

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Wrenches.We have used the DPW products, primarily their top of pole
racks for yearswe have well over a hundred of the racks installedWe
love their simplicity, and ease of assemblyWe have never once had a
problem with an installed racknever had a failure of any kindWe
appreciate the fact that they supply extra hardware with each
shipment.Inevitably we drop parts and a few extras are always
appreciated.
For us it is the details...We get comfortable installing something we have
done many many timeswe are able to predict our pace and therefore we
can give our customers accurate bids which leave us not over bidding or
under biddingChanges are  sometimes necessary and a result of
innovation or improvementsIts the communication which sometimes
lagsknowledge is powerWhen we know we are going to be dealing with
some change it is easier for us to predict and anticipate changes to our
habitsand therefore planning as wellpredictability is our friend!!!
Our recent experiences have left us a bit disgruntledwhile the quality
of the installed DPW racks has not changed or degraded we have been left
with carrying the extra burden of some of the changesI am glad to ehar
the new paint is going to be new again...Hopefully it will not have the
same issues with regards to the packaging sticking to the wet(ish) paint
and leaving us with a headache of trying to figure out how to clean off
imprints of paper, styrafoam and shrink wrap off of the strong back

DPW has been a great partner over the yearsGrowing pains affect us
allSometimes they are more noticable than others
Communication is key!!!  I will likely continue to use their top of pole
racks, as I haven't found any better options
I value the effect this list has on maintaining the pressure on
manufacturers to be responsive to us installers who are on the front lines
of making their products fit into the market placeWe all have our areas
of expertiseand each step is important.I for one am not interested
in becoming a racking manufacturer!!!
Cheers

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Thu, Oct 8, 2015 at 7:03 AM, Howie Michaelson 
wrote:

> William,
> I have followed your posts over the years and appreciate the efforts you
> have made in developing and then your willingness to share them with the
> list. Thank you.
>
> If DP&W had wire management products available, it never reached my radar,
> although admittedly I never asked them either. We would definitely consider
> passing more for that added value.
>
> I too appreciate the robustness of their TPM product, especially compared
> to the old Unirac TPM that we started out with and watched get blown apart
> more than once. However, I think we would benefit from a more competitive
> market, which would hopefully help drive better product to installers and
> thereby customers.
>
> Howie Michaelson
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™
>
> Catamount Solar
> Renewable Energy Systems Sales and Service
> VT Solar Electric Incentive Partner
> http://www.CatamountSolar.com
> 802-272-0004
> On Oct 8, 2015 3:13 AM, "William Miller"  wrote:
>
>> Howie:
>>
>>
>>
>> At one time I shared your dream: that if only the manufacturer’s would
>> build wire management and shielding systems, consumers would flock to buy
>> them.  I asked DPW to help me develop some wire shielding hardware and
>> Steve Schumacher was willing to give it a try.  See this link
>> <http://www.millersolar.com/MillerSolar/practices/PV_wiring/Wire_shielding/_Wire%20Shielding_history.html>
>> for some pictures of the system Schu helped us develop.  Unfortunately, I
>> was one of the few people that ever asked for this product, and there was
>> no reason for DPW to put any more energy into the idea.
>>
>>
>>
>> Over time I came to realize that what is hindering the development of
>> better wire management and wire shielding systems is not the lack of
>> manufacturers building the systems-- it is due to the lack of demand for
>> them in the market.  Wire management and shielding systems will add to the
>> cost of any installation.  If installers can get away without using these
>> systems, why should they bother?
>>
>>
>>
>> They get by without them because building officials are all too often
>> ignorant and lazy.  I have tried and tried to convince the officials in the
>> county in which I live to read the black and white of the current NEC but
>> they refuse.  Most of the inspections of my work by building officials last
>> less than 2 minutes.  When I ask inspectors and

Re: [RE-wrenches] DPW Rack Problems

[Kirpal Khalsa]

RayWe have had the same problemsBut we didn't get offered the $50
for our time and labor.
We called and complained...it seemed on deaf ears.
AlsoThey advertise pre -antiseized bolts on some of their
rackingbut it is certainly not so with their top of pole racks.Some
times the gimble bolts have anti seize and and sometimes not.lack of
consistency is a head ache
We are exploring alternatives..

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Tue, Oct 6, 2015 at 1:14 PM, Ray Walters  wrote:

> Greetings All;
>
> I have used DP&W's top of pole racks for 20 years, but I've had my share
> of trouble, too.
> First the lead times are horrible, sometimes pushing 2 months.
> Second, the cost is approaching the cost of the modules, especially for
> high wind ratings.
> Third, they just can't seem to wait till the paint is dry to pack the
> racks.
> Several times I've had to sand and repaint the main strong back, because
> foam, paper, or plastic wrap had stuck to the paint.
> This last time was the worst, and I was offered $50 for my troubles and
> embarrassment in front of the customer.
> They said I should have shipped it back.  How much sense does that make:
> round trip freight shipping, and 2 more weeks lost?
> Here's a page of the manual completely stuck in the paint:
>
>
> Come on DP&W, you guys used to stand by your work.
>
> --
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Standing metal seam clamps

[Kirpal Khalsa]

We have started using the ACE 2 clamps and so far they are our favorite.
On Aug 13, 2015 2:23 PM, "Jason Szumlanski" <
ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:

> No first-hand experience with it, but there is one from Eco-Fasten:
>
> http://www.ecofastensolar.com/store/pc/viewCategories.asp?idCategory=4
>
>
>
> On Thu, Aug 13, 2015 at 5:04 PM, Jay  wrote:
>
>> Hi all
>>
>> Any options for standing metal seam clamps besides
>> S-5!
>> Snap n rack
>> ?
>>
>> Thanks in advance
>> Jay
>> Peltz power
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] SolaEdge Outback AC Coupling

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hey Bill...my understanding of the Outback AC coupled solution is that it
does not offer multi stage charging from the grid tied inverter as it does
not have any way to regulate the amount of power coming in  from that
inverter...based on the state of charge of the batteries and at pre set
voltage set points it can operate the remote breaker but it does not have
the ability to taper the amount of in coming power from the grid tied
inverter..   This is why the frequency shift AC coupling such as found with
SMA and others is a nice solution as the amount of incoming power from the
grid tied inverters is regulated allowing for healthy multi stage
charging.
Another thing to consider if using the Outback Ac coupled solution is that
your DC coupling options becomes limited in the same load center
Cheers
Kirpal
On Jun 30, 2015 9:01 AM, "Bill Hoffer"  wrote:

> Kirpal
>
> Actually the Radian system does adjust the battery voltage point that it
> disconnects the grid inverter based on the stage of the charge timers using
> the 3 stage inverter charger set points.  The FNDC will also over ride the
> timers if all fully charged parameters are met.  It has the advantage of
> being able to safely use a back up generator in the system and will
> physically disconnect from grid and the AC coupled inverter before
> connecting the generator.  So there are some advantages over a SMA AC
> coupled system too!
>
> Even though there is no official application notes on AC coupling a Radian
> and Solaredge, I have seen it done with good results.  The nice thing about
> an AC coupled Radian is it should work with any grid tie inverter system
> out there.
>
> Bill
>
> On Tue, Jun 30, 2015 at 6:45 AM, Kirpal Khalsa 
> wrote:
>
>> TomI haven't AC coupled Solaredge and Outback, but I have AC Coupled
>> Outback with various other inverter manufacturers and their Radian AC
>> Coupled Load center will work with any AC sourceIt doesn't directly
>> communicate with any other inverter but its remote operated circuit
>> breakers allow it to disconnect AC Power from any other inverter when
>> batteries reach a preset voltageIt is not as elegant as a sunny
>> island/sunnyboy system because it doesn't provide multistage charging buy
>> it is easy to implement and install.You should be able to find all the
>> information on the Outback Radian site.  You would need the GSLC-AC-120/240
>> load center and it comes pre wired with the remote operated circuit breaker
>> which makes it a breeze to install
>>
>>
>> Sunny Regards,
>> Kirpal Khalsa
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>> Oregon Solarworks LLC
>> www.oregonsolarworks.com
>> 541-218-0201 m
>> 541-299-0402 o
>>
>> On Tue, Jun 30, 2015 at 3:40 AM, Tom Lane  wrote:
>>
>>> Has anyone AC Coupled an Outback System with SolarEdge ? I would like to
>>> see a wiring diagram and know what components from Outback you used with
>>> SolarEdge . I have been told variously that SolarEdge does not approve AC
>>> Coupling and that they have approve it , depending on who I get on the
>>> phone . SolarEdge and Outback have no official diagrams or components list
>>> that I can find . I would like some help here as we are in Hurricane season
>>> in Gator Land !
>>>
>>> Sent from my iPad
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>
> --
> William Hoffer
> 161 SE Fourth Ave
&

Re: [RE-wrenches] SolaEdge Outback AC Coupling

[Kirpal Khalsa]

TomI haven't AC coupled Solaredge and Outback, but I have AC Coupled
Outback with various other inverter manufacturers and their Radian AC
Coupled Load center will work with any AC sourceIt doesn't directly
communicate with any other inverter but its remote operated circuit
breakers allow it to disconnect AC Power from any other inverter when
batteries reach a preset voltageIt is not as elegant as a sunny
island/sunnyboy system because it doesn't provide multistage charging buy
it is easy to implement and install.You should be able to find all the
information on the Outback Radian site.  You would need the GSLC-AC-120/240
load center and it comes pre wired with the remote operated circuit breaker
which makes it a breeze to install


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Tue, Jun 30, 2015 at 3:40 AM, Tom Lane  wrote:

> Has anyone AC Coupled an Outback System with SolarEdge ? I would like to
> see a wiring diagram and know what components from Outback you used with
> SolarEdge . I have been told variously that SolarEdge does not approve AC
> Coupling and that they have approve it , depending on who I get on the
> phone . SolarEdge and Outback have no official diagrams or components list
> that I can find . I would like some help here as we are in Hurricane season
> in Gator Land !
>
> Sent from my iPad
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fastening to light-guage steel framing

[Kirpal Khalsa]

We never got a chance to use them but looked into them numerous times.  A
product called Rivstud.  Essentially a rivet with a stud on top which you
can mount the L foot toworth looking intoespecially if it is a big
job.
On Jun 11, 2015 4:13 AM, "Chris Mason"  wrote:

> I'm fond of the SnapNRack metal roof base. You can use it with any
> suitable fastener.
> http://www.snapnrack.com/metal-roof-base-simplified
> On Jun 10, 2015 9:07 PM, "Davis Terrell"  wrote:
>
>>  Esteemed Wrenches,
>>
>>
>>
>> We are looking at a roof mounted PV system on a building with light gauge
>> steel roof frame.  Only attachment that looks to be compatible out of the
>> box is the EcoFastenSolar Quickfoot because it uses OMG XHD screws which
>> are intended for such an application.  We have used this before and are
>> comfortable with it, but anyone have any other products they have used
>> successfully?  I know no one here wants to give professional engineering
>> advice (and I would not take it as such) but does anyone have any success
>> stories or things to look out for?  Thanks,
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Davis Terrell
>>
>> Project Manager
>>
>> Green Earth Energy
>>
>> da...@mckernongroup.com
>>
>> office: (802) 247-1200
>>
>> mobile: (802) 989-1661
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] #2 -#8 AWG Crimpers

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Luke, Mick Jay.Thank you for the feedback..I just ordered a set of the
cub crimpers...I think it is going to be a useful addition to our tool
chest.
What  prompted this is that we often solder our ring terminals on but it
tends to stiffen the copper wire.We use alot of the Midnite panel mount
breakers and the 300VDC breakers still have the really chincy terminal
posts which break off with just the slightest twisting of the wireOver
the years Outback Power also used those breakers and we have piles of those
brand new crappy breakers which have a broken terminal postI noted some
of the single pole panel mount breakers have a sturdier terminal post and
this problem is going awayI am hoping this can happen for all the panel
mount breakers these manufacturers sell.
Made me realize a high quality crimp without the stiffening of the wire
will help reduce this problem.  Those breakers are expensive!
Thanks for the advice!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Thu, Jun 4, 2015 at 12:26 PM, Luke Christy 
wrote:

> Hi Khirpa,
> We use a high quality mini hex crimper with rotatable dies for #8-1/0 AWG.
> It is basically a miniature version of the Hex-Crimp battery lug crimper
> sold by Quick Cable. The one I have is older and no longer has the
> manufacturer label, but I believe it was marketed as a Cub Crimper. A quick
> web search shows that there is still a similar crimper sold under that
> name. At any rate, I have been very pleased with this crimper, and I'd
> recommend it.
>
> Best,
> -Luke
>
> On Jun 4, 2015, at 12:11 PM, Kirpal Khalsa  wrote:
>
> > Greetings wrenches. we would like to vet a good quality crimper for
> crimping copper ring terminals to our mid range wire sizesAny of you
> have a good quality crimping tool you can recommend. ...wire sizes I am
> looking to crimp are #2-#8 AWG.
> > Thanks in advance!
> > Kirpal Khalsa
> > Oregon Solarworks
> >
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>
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[RE-wrenches] #2 -#8 AWG Crimpers

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Greetings wrenches. we would like to vet a good quality crimper for
crimping copper ring terminals to our mid range wire sizesAny of you
have a good quality crimping tool you can recommend. ...wire sizes I am
looking to crimp are #2-#8 AWG.
Thanks in advance!
Kirpal Khalsa
Oregon Solarworks
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[RE-wrenches] SunEye 210

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Friends
Speaking of items that are no longer availableAnyone have an extra
Solmetric Suneye 210 they want to part with...used and in good working
condition is fine.
Thanks!!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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[RE-wrenches] Evergreen 190

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Anybody have any Evergreen 190's they would be willing to part with for
broken panel replacement?
Please contact me off line if so.
Thank you!!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Acid containment

[Kirpal Khalsa]

BillWe line our battery boxes with PVC liners like what is used in
shower pans.It is a thick PVC membraneIt is available at just about
any tile supply store.It is strong and impervious to battery acid.
Good luck.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Mon, Mar 30, 2015 at 9:03 AM, frenergy  wrote:

> Fellow Wrenches,
>
>I just called Tap Plastics hoping they would solve my problem of
> battery acid containment within a plywood battery box.  I was surprised by
> their response that the acrylic was not impervious to acid and polyethylene
> would not work because sealants nor caulking adhere to it properly.  They
> did not have anything that would work.
>
>I've used those individual battery boxes from an auto parts store
> (~$12/each) but they take up more space than just the batteries.  Has
> anyone ever used ice dam underpayment, like Grace? Better idea?
>
> Thanks for any advice,
>
> Bill
> Feather River Solar Electric
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] outback radian question

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Are LED's on dimmers and non dimmers flickering or just dimmer switch
connected lightsi have had problems with LED's on dimmer switches even
with LED specific dimmer switches. ..
Just an idea. ...
On Mar 18, 2015 7:39 PM, "jay peltz"  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> My question is. are there any known issues with the Radian interfacing
> with a generator?
>
> I have a customer with flickering lights.
> The lights are LED ( some dimmer/some on/off)
>
> The generator supplier says that there are lots of problems with the
> Radian.
> I've not heard this and don't believe it.
>
> symptoms:
> radian alone:  no flicker
> generator alone: no flicker
> generator/charging flicker.
> different generator: no flicker.
>
> So there is no doubt its the generator.
>
> I'm trying to get more information to go back to the customer.
>
> Thanks
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunwize or industrial PV modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

LarryTry Erika Karnitz at Backwoods Solar..They usually have those
sizes of modules.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Tue, Feb 24, 2015 at 10:43 AM, Larry  wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> Does anyone know where to by small 20 to 75 Watt modules like Sunwize used
> to sell? They were what I considered industrial grade with a junction box.
> I checked with Soligent but they don't have any.
>
> Thanks, Larry
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Aquian Energy Batteries.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Thank you for the comments on these batteriesRebekah...thanks for
pointing to the comments from the pasti tried searching the archives
but somehow missed it.
They look like a promising technologyafter looking at the spec sheets
and seeing how the batteries react to full discharge it looks like even
though they can tolerate full discharge, the electronics attached to them
may need to cut off before thengiving a smaller available capacity than
the battery may actually have.   But their tolerance for this high state of
discharge is still attractive...
On this go around my customer and I decided on good old fashioned Rolls
Surrettes...Perhaps on the next go around or when i update my personal
home system I will guinea pig myself...
I am glad we are starting to get more options for energy storage.This
is an area with much room for improvement and growth in our
industry..As well as an area that still regularly gets criticized for
its environmental foot print..
Cheers to all the good work you all do!


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o

On Mon, Feb 16, 2015 at 9:38 AM, Rebekah Hren 
wrote:

> Just a reminder that there was a long list thread about these batteries in
> the fall:
>
>
> https://www.mail-archive.com/search?l=re-wrenches%40lists.re-wrenches.org&q=aquion&submit.x=20&submit.y=17
>
> In particular Phil Undercuffler had some very interesting comments:
>
> https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches%40lists.re-wrenches.org/msg18576.html
>
> Rebekah
>
> On Mon, Feb 16, 2015 at 12:29 PM, Glenn Burt  wrote:
>
>> I came across a blog post on these batteries on the AltE Direct site that
>> may be of interest to you.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> http://www.altestore.com/blog/2014/10/going-solar-doesn%E2%80%99t-have-to-cost-as-much-as-you-think/
>>
>>
>>
>> -Glenn
>>
>>
>>
>> *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On
>> Behalf Of *Kirpal Khalsa
>> *Sent:* Sunday, February 15, 2015 9:56 PM
>> *To:* RE-wrenches
>> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Aquian Energy Batteries.
>>
>>
>>
>> Hi Wrenches!! A customer just passed me some info about a battery company
>> based out of Pittsburgh named Aquian Energy.They make a battery they
>> call
>> Aqueous Hybrid Ion (AHI™) Batteries
>> <http://www.aquionenergy.com/energy-storage-systems>
>>
>> .I looked at their web site and the specs for the batteries look
>> pretty impressive.I don't want to be the first kid on the block and was
>> wondering if any of you have used them and if you had any feedback
>>
>> Their web site is
>>
>> http://www.aquionenergy.com/
>>
>> I tried contacting the company to find request some more information but
>> they haven't responded to my requests
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks in advance for your feedback
>>
>> Cheers!
>>
>>
>>
>> Sunny Regards,
>> Kirpal Khalsa
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>> Oregon Solarworks LLC
>> www.oregonsolarworks.com
>> 541-218-0201 m
>> 541-299-0402 o
>>
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>
>
> --
> Tel: 336.266.8800
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[RE-wrenches] Aquian Energy Batteries.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi Wrenches!! A customer just passed me some info about a battery company
based out of Pittsburgh named Aquian Energy.They make a battery they
call Aqueous Hybrid Ion (AHI™) Batteries
<http://www.aquionenergy.com/energy-storage-systems>.I looked at their
web site and the specs for the batteries look pretty impressive.I don't
want to be the first kid on the block and was wondering if any of you have
used them and if you had any feedback
Their web site is
http://www.aquionenergy.com/
I tried contacting the company to find request some more information but
they haven't responded to my requests

Thanks in advance for your feedback
Cheers!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Oregon Solarworks LLC
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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[RE-wrenches] Sanyo - HIT-N220A01 Modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi FolksPlease contact me off list if you have 2 or 3 of the Sanyo -
HIT-N220A01 Modules availableWe have a customer who broke one with
their rock flinging mower..We would like to replace the broken module
as well as have a couple spares.If you know anywhere that might have
some in stock that would also be appreciated
Thank you

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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[RE-wrenches] Fan Controller

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hey Folkswe have a customer with a 24VDC fan for venting a green house
and we would like to be able to control speed on it instead of just
on/off...The fan draws 22 Amps at 24VDCAny suggestions on how to
regulate speed? The idea is to have the fan pull less than the 22
amps
rheostat? potentiometer
I think essentially what i am looking for is a dimmer switch for a 24VDC
motor.
Thank you!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Low flow high head pump

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hot damn Brian! You are clever!  Great ideas!
On May 7, 2014 4:46 PM, "Brian Teitelbaum"  wrote:

> Jeremy,
>
> A Grundfos SQFlex model 3 SQF-3 will run on just two 250W 60-cell modules
> in series. At 600 feet of head, with 500W of PV, it will do just about 1
> gpm at noon peak.
>
> However, if the static level is 200 ft in a 600 ft deep well, you have a
> lot of water storage sitting in the well casing. That will allow you to
> pump at a rate above the well's underground inflow for some period of time.
> A 4" well casing holds about 0.6 gallons per foot. The pump will start out
> only having 200 ft of head, so it will pump at a faster rate, but as the
> water level drops, the flow-rate will drop off. Hopefully it will reach
> equilibrium, or the tank will be full, before the pump runs dry. And of
> course, the amount of sunlight will decline as the day gets later, slowing
> down the delivery rate, so it may not be an issue at all. The SQF pumps
> have a low water sensor that will shut the pump off if it does run out of
> water. If you find the pump shutting off due to low water before the day's
> sunlight is over, you can also just turn the PV array away from due south
> to limit output.
>
> Another strategy to control pump flow rate is to drill a hole in the pump
> output piping to allow some of the pumped water to flow back into the well,
> reducing delivery. Or just install a tee in the pipe above ground, put a
> valve on it (gate or ball valve), and run a pipe from the valve back into
> the well. That way you can adjust the valve to get the exact bypass needed
> for delivery flow control.
>
> Brian Teitelbaum
> AEE Solar
>
>
> -Original Message-
> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of All Solar, Inc.
> Sent: Wednesday, May 07, 2014 2:28 PM
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Low flow high head pump
>
> Static level is 200 feet
> Well produces ~1 gallon per minute.  4 inch casing.
> 200 gallons per day requirement
>
> Jeremy Rodriguez,
> President
>
> All Solar, Inc.
> 1463 M
> Penrose Colorado 81240
> 719-372-3808 office
> 719-372-3804 fax
> www.asolarelectric.com
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand!
>
> > On May 6, 2014, at 6:43 PM, Brian Teitelbaum 
> wrote:
> >
> > Hi Jeremy,
> >
> > PV-direct pumps operate at variable speeds depending on the amount of
> sunlight and time of day, so a GPM figure is not very helpful in sizing the
> pump. It's useful info if the water source will not produce more GPM, since
> you don't want to over-pump the source, but it's not enough info to do
> proper design.
> >
> > What are you pumping out of? Well, pond, spring box?
> >
> > How many gallons per day (GPD) do you need delivered, on average? GPD is
> a much more useful figure for sizing PV-direct pumps.
> >
> > Is that "600 ft" of head measured from the standing water level to the
> top of the storage tank, as just elevation change and not distance?
> >
> > A 600 foot-deep well might actually have a standing water level at
> 300-400 ft. Even if the pump is set at 600 ft, it only takes energy to lift
> water from its standing level, so your head figure would be inaccurate if
> that is the case.
> >
> > If it's a well, what is the diameter of the well casing?
> >
> > What are the peak sun-hours at the site during the darkest time of year
> that the water is needed?
> >
> > There are lots of other questions to ask, but these should help a lot.
> >
> > Brian Teitelbaum
> > AEE Solar
> >
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of All Solar, Inc.
> > Sent: Tuesday, May 06, 2014 5:08 PM
> > To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
> > Subject: [RE-wrenches] Low flow high head pump
> >
> > Hi all,
> > Any recommendations for a low flow, high lift pump, PV direct pump.
> > 1 GPM @ 600 ft of head. Maybe   a conventional pump on a timer?
> >
> >
> > Jeremy Rodriguez,
> > President
> >
> > All Solar, Inc.
> > 1463 M
> > Penrose Colorado 81240
> > 719-372-3808 office
> > 719-372-3804 fax
> > www.asolarelectric.com
> >
> > Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand!
> > ___
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar Edge Experience?

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Augustwe have a half dozen systems out thereThey are all producing
with high efficiency and no failures yetI think one advantage they have
over micro's is that your wire runs are made using 350VDC  and so you can
get up to 25 modules or  ~5200 watts per string ( which ever you hit
first)where as with Enphase you are limited to 16 inverters.
Addtionally they have 300 watt optimizers which i like for the bigger 60
cell modules.  This means no clipping. That said Enphase has some
arguements why clipping isn't so bad.
We have found there to be more labor on a Solar Edge installation as there
is both a central inverter and a rooftop box that needs installed.
All the communications to their web site has been working perfectly so far.
 As does the communication between the inverters and optimizers.
Make sure to get the proper module connectors that match your solar panels.

Good luck.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Mon, May 5, 2014 at 2:58 PM, August Goers  wrote:

> Hi Bill,
>
>
>
> That was my take up until recently. However, we’ve had lots of Enphase
> failures with M190s and M210s (to Enphase’s credit, no failures yet with
> M215s and M250s) so I’m hesitant to put more and more micros up on the
> roof. Plus, the price starts to beat micros around a system size of 4+ kW.
> We’re seeing a lot of competitors offer Solar Edge in the Bay Area
> including Solar City so there must be some good reasons to use them. In my
> mind, reliability is of utmost importance and I don’t have any firsthand
> knowledge on how the Solar Edge systems are working. I think they’ve only
> been in the US for about 3 years.
>
>
>
> Best, August
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *William Dorsett
> *Sent:* Monday, May 05, 2014 11:36 AM
> *To:* 'RE-wrenches'
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar Edge Experience?
>
>
>
> August, it’s hard for me to see the point if you get all those benefits
> (long strings, module level tracking and monitoring, design flexibility)
> for the same price with micros.
>
>
>
> Bill Dorsett
>
> Manhattan, KS
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [
> mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org]
> *On Behalf Of *August Goers
> *Sent:* Monday, May 05, 2014 10:57 AM
> *To:* RE-wrenches
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Solar Edge Experience?
>
>
>
> Hi Wrenches,
>
>
>
> I have been watching Solar Edge for a while now and am curious if other
> wrenches have been using their product and what they think about it. I’m
> generally hesitant to adopt new technology until it has a good track record
> but I have to admit that I’m seeing some serious benefits in the Solar Edge
> system – long strings, module level tracking and monitoring, design
> flexibility, etc. Can folks who have tried their product let me know what
> you think and if you’ve had any failures?
>
>
>
> http://www.solaredge.us/groups/us/inverter/single-phase-solar-inverter
>
>
>
> Best,
>
>
>
> August
>
>
>
> Luminalt
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Stainless NEMA4x load center

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Drake.we want it to mount flush to the slope of a sloped roofThe
NEMA 3R are supposed to be mounted verticallyThis is for a large
residential Enphase system and we wanted to combine the circuits on the
roof and bring one set of conductors down.
I did find one custom made by Eaton(Cutler Hammer), but$952 my cost is
too much..I have had them make me one out of fiberglass in the past but it
is about 3 years into its roof mount life and showing signs of UV
degradation...looking for other optionsI think i will dig a little
deeper at Midnite Solar.They may have somethingTheirs and Outback's
PV combiners are rated to be mounted at a slopei think it is down to 14
degrees pitch (3/12)
Thanks.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Wed, Apr 23, 2014 at 8:11 AM, Drake  wrote:

>  That would be a nice piece of hardware. Is there any reason you can't use
> a NEMA 3R panel?  They are used on roofs quite a bit, and are readily
> available.  The Square D, 8 space, outdoor box should work in most rooftop
> environments for the purpose you describe.
>
> At 06:18 PM 4/21/2014, you wrote:
>
> Hello Friends!
> Anyone have a lead for* NEMA 4x* stainless load centers (electrical
> panel)? Â Looking for 4 circuit version rated at about 60-100A @ 240VAC.
>
> Would like to use it for rooftop combiner for 3 Enphase inverter output
> circuits.
> Thank you!!
>
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201
>
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[RE-wrenches] Stainless NEMA4x load center

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hello Friends!
Anyone have a lead for* NEMA 4x* stainless load centers (electrical panel)?
 Looking for 4 circuit version rated at about 60-100A @ 240VAC.
Would like to use it for rooftop combiner for 3 Enphase inverter output
circuits.
Thank you!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Huge battery bank recommendation

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Ray.i do not have the link to the warrantyour salesman presented us
with a variety of options ranging from 5 years upto 20 years.just like
other manufacturers they had prorating levels with each option.If asked
i am sure they will provide you with any information you want in regards to
the warranty

Allan.yes in fact we were also surprised with the low voltage settings
that they specifyIn one system we installed a 3200Ah battery bank and
trying to coordinate the settings they specify with the programmable
settings offered in the Sunny Islands was an exercise in it selfThey
have different terminology than is common in most RE system charging
parametersmaking sure we were all talking about the same parameters was
the hardest factorIf i remember correctly the absorb and equalize
settings were almost the same per the manufacturer.
I could not tell you much about the lead -selenium technology or the
tubular positive plates with any expertise.
The large system we installed these batteries on was specified to use the
longest possible life span batteries  coupled with high cycling
capabilityAt the time they were the only company we could find willing
to put the 20 year warranty in writing apart from some sealed Unigy
batteries which were far more expensive..This was a AC coupled grid
interactive system and so the batteries are in standby 95%+ of the
timeWe have a contract to do routine maintenance on the system and have
only had to add water once per yeareven then it was not necessary but
to set it on course till the next time we are scheduled to inspect, 1 year
later.
The customer has had very few power outages but did have one for 4 days
last winter and the battery bank worked flawlesslyWe really like the
clear cases for quick electrolyte level monitoring.  The cells have flip
tops for easy access.
My overall take on these batteries is that they are primarily designed for
standby systems.  We haven't used them in an off grid configuration.  They
have been in for 3 years with no sign of aging...I think they are a company
that is only beginning to realize the possibility of the RE market and
havent focused much effort in that direction in the past
SBS was easy to work with, and provided good support for the seismic
racking and spill containment systemwith more documentation than i am
used to receiving from our main suppliers...
Hope that helps...
Cheers,



Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Tue, Mar 11, 2014 at 8:42 AM, Ray Walters  wrote:

>  Hi Kirpal;
>
> I see that the SBS batteries are rated to 1200 cycles to 80% DOD, but I
> can't find the warranty on their website. Do you have a link to that?
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760
>
> On 3/11/2014 9:26 AM, Kirpal Khalsa wrote:
>
> Mac...good morningthat is a big battery bank!We have used the SBS
> Batteries for large battery banksThey offer multiple warranty options
> including upto 20 years.  They are tubular plates with clear outer cases
> which make the electrolyte levels really easy to monitor and fillThey
> come with insulated cell interconnects with testing ports, they offer
> seismic racking custom designed to fit your battery bank, as well as spill
> containment trays and acid neutralizer kits for the spill containment
> trays.  We have been very happy with their performance.  They offer a 2V
> FLA cell at 4000Ah @ the 20 hr rate.  They are a high quality product made
> in the USA and worth looking at.
> Here is the link to their website.
>
> http://www.sbsbattery.com/products-services/by-product/batteries/batteries-flooded-wet-cell-batteries/flooded-wet-cell-batteries-stt-series-flooded-2v-cell.html
>  Additionally they offer hydrogen gas alarms for battery rooms.
>
>  I am curious - is this a solar integrated system, if so, what size array
> would be charging the batteries?
> Good luck!
>
>  Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-299-0402 o
>
>
> On Tue, Mar 11, 2014 at 8:05 AM, Ray Walters  wrote:
>
>> Consider the HUP Solar One battery, the 125-33.  It has 2490 AH at the 20
>> hr rate.   The warranty is for 2100 cycles to 80% DOD.  Also most of the
>> jumpers are included (bus bars within each 12 v group)
>> We've had nothing but happy customers since we started using the HUPs.
>>
>> R.Ray Walters
>> CTO, Solarray, Inc
>> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
>> Licensed Master Electrician
>> Solar Design Engineer
>> 303 50

Re: [RE-wrenches] Huge battery bank recommendation

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Mac...good morningthat is a big battery bank!We have used the SBS
Batteries for large battery banksThey offer multiple warranty options
including upto 20 years.  They are tubular plates with clear outer cases
which make the electrolyte levels really easy to monitor and fillThey
come with insulated cell interconnects with testing ports, they offer
seismic racking custom designed to fit your battery bank, as well as spill
containment trays and acid neutralizer kits for the spill containment
trays.  We have been very happy with their performance.  They offer a 2V
FLA cell at 4000Ah @ the 20 hr rate.  They are a high quality product made
in the USA and worth looking at.
Here is the link to their website.
http://www.sbsbattery.com/products-services/by-product/batteries/batteries-flooded-wet-cell-batteries/flooded-wet-cell-batteries-stt-series-flooded-2v-cell.html
Additionally they offer hydrogen gas alarms for battery rooms.

I am curious - is this a solar integrated system, if so, what size array
would be charging the batteries?
Good luck!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Tue, Mar 11, 2014 at 8:05 AM, Ray Walters  wrote:

> Consider the HUP Solar One battery, the 125-33.  It has 2490 AH at the 20
> hr rate.   The warranty is for 2100 cycles to 80% DOD.  Also most of the
> jumpers are included (bus bars within each 12 v group)
> We've had nothing but happy customers since we started using the HUPs.
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer
> 303 505-8760
>
>
> On 3/11/2014 8:01 AM, penobscotso...@midmaine.com wrote:
>
>> Mac, for this type of large system we typically use Surrette/Rolls
>> 2YS31.They are 2430 ah. When we get into battery banks this large we
>> typically only run two cells deep (front to back) for ease of maintenance.
>> I hope your customer has some free time on their hands for maintenance.
>> Remember, Surrette deep cycle batteries demand a higher than most charge
>> rate or you will find the life of the cell will be significantly shorter
>> than with proper charging. I'm sure your local battery distributor or
>> Jamie Surrette can send you the tech stuff on these batteries. Any way it
>> goes, this is a very big battery bank. Good luck!
>>
>> Daryl DeJoy
>> NABCEP Certified PV installer
>> Penobscot Solar Design
>>
>>
>>
>>  Good point Jason.  To clarify this is a 48V system.
>>>
>>> Thanks
>>>
>>>
>>> On Tue, Mar 11, 2014 at 7:44 AM, Jason Szumlanski
>>> wrote:
>>>
>>>  Not that I have an answer for you, but I'm curious, too. You need to
>>>> specify voltage to get a good answer.
>>>>
>>>> Jason Szumlanski
>>>>
>>>> Fafco Solar
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On Tue, Mar 11, 2014 at 9:24 AM, Mac Lewis  wrote:
>>>>
>>>>  Hi wrenches,
>>>>>
>>>>> I am consulting on a job that requires an 8000 Ahr battery bank.  This
>>>>> is
>>>>> quite a bit beyond my normal battery bank realm.  What would you
>>>>> recommend
>>>>> for this?
>>>>>
>>>>>   Thanks in advance
>>>>>
>>>>> --
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Mac Lewis
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>  ___
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>>>>
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>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Mac Lewis
>>>
>>> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
>>> ___
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>>>
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>>>
>>> Change 

Re: [RE-wrenches] Source for wire

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Allan...top of the afternoon to you...These guys have what you are looking
for along with some other useful stuffoften you have to leave
messages.They are pretty good at returning calls.

http://www.pv-cables.com/Bulk_Wire_Cable-Pump_Cable.html

Cheers,


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Fri, Feb 28, 2014 at 5:04 PM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power
Systems  wrote:

> Perhaps this?
> http://www.waytekwire.com/products/1461/Marine-Wire-Cable/&--of-Conductors=2
>
> Larry
>
> On Feb 28, 2014, at 5:54 PM, Allan Sindelar 
> wrote:
>
>  Wrenches,
> Simple request, please: who carries 10/2 jacketed submersible cable,
> specifically to use with the Shurflo 9300 pump?
>
> Conventional pump suppliers don't carry it, as any pump with metal parts
> needs a third conductor for ground, and usually run 240V. The 9300 fits
> only 10/2 or 12/2 wire without ground and with flat jacketing.  It must be
> flat-jacketed to seal to the cable gland.
>
> Thank you,
> Allan
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> *al...@positiveenergysolar.com* 
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder, *Positive Energy, Inc.*
>
> A Certified B CorporationTM
> 3209 Richards Lane
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112 <505%20424-1112> office 780-2738 cell*
> *www.positiveenergysolar.com* <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunny Island Battery Disconnects

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jason.those switches are not over current protection devices unless
outfitted with fusesyou would have to use a big disconnect  with big
fuses in order to work with a battery bankas the current to and from
the batteries could be quite significantAdditionally the bulletin you
mention when the terminals are wired in series is only when the voltage is
expected to be above 250VDC up to 600VDC...
Cheers,

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Mon, Feb 10, 2014 at 5:52 AM, Jason Szrom wrote:

> Hi William,
>
> I don't have a lot of experience with battery OCPD, but I did have a
> project where we used a Square D heavy duty safety switch to protect a
> negative grounded 600VDC battery string. All of the heavy duty switches are
> AC and DC rated (H363, H364, H365...).
>
> For DC applications, go here:
> http://www.schneider-electric.us/sites/us/en/support/documents-downloads.page
>
> And search for bulletin number 3110DB0401. This shows that the switches
> are listed for DC use if 2 poles are wired in series.
>
> You are correct that a grounded conductor can never have OCPD unless the
> OCPD opens both the grounded and ungrounded wires at the same time (NEC
> 240.22). This could only be accomplished with a multi-pole circuit breaker
> and there aren't many around rated for 600VDC.
>
> Hope this helps.
>
> Regards,
>
> Jason M. Szrom, PE
> Engineering Supervisor
> Solar Energy Systems, LLC
> 718-389-1545 x13
>
> -Original Message-
> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Ray Walters
> Sent: Sunday, February 09, 2014 4:22 PM
> To: RE-wrenches
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Sunny Island Battery Disconnects
>
> Yes, they make a 3 pole class T fused disconnect.  You could have 3
> strings fused separately and then combined in a single pull disco, UL
> listed too. I even have one here, or I can provide their contact info.
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer
> 303 505-8760
>
> On 2/8/2014 6:59 AM, Richard L Ratico wrote:
> > Ray,
> > Way back in 2002, you mentioned using Boltswitch products for battery
> string
> > fusing
> > immediately outside the battery box. Might one of these be a partial
> solution
> > for William?
> >
> > Dick Ratico
> > Solarwind Electric
> >
> >
> > --- You wrote:
> > I'm working on something similar.  I think the Flex 1000 is the only
> > reasonable choice that can handle more than 2 of the large format DC
> > breakers.  Midnite has the more expensive MNBCB -1000 Battery Combiner
> > box,  but there just isn't enough documentation to figure out what it
> > can and can't do.
> >
> > R.Ray Walters
> > CTO, Solarray, Inc
> > Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> > Licensed Master Electrician
> > Solar Design Engineer
> > 303 505-8760
> >
> > On 2/7/2014 6:29 PM, will...@millersolar.com wrote:
> >> Friends:
> >>
> >> I am reworking an installation with 3 Sunny Island inverters.  The
> >> battery leads have no disconnecting means or OCP.  I have been looking
> >> for sensible hardware to provide this and I have found some options.
> >> I am interested in any input on these or ideas I have not discovered.
> >>
> >> 1.SMA BATFUSE.  I am having trouble deciding which one is right for a
> >> 3 SI install.
> >>
> >> a.The B.003 appears to have fuse positions for the positive and the
> >> negative leads.  I am fairly darn certain I don't want fuses in the
> >> negative leads of a negative bonded system, and although this is my
> >> first SI install, I am pretty sure this is negative bonded.  Am I
> >> missing something here?
> >>
> >> b.The B.001 has only positions for two fuses as far as I can see from
> >> the manual.
> >>
> >> c.So it looks like neither will work for me.  Does anyone have any
> >> experience and/or wisdom here?
> >>
> >> 2.Midnite Solar E-panels:
> >>
> >> a.The regular panel has DC and AC components.  I want to control the
> >> AC elsewhere so I could order three slave units.  The Midnite unit
> >> mounts right under the inverter but I would prefer to have the OCP
> >> closer to the batteries.
> >>
> >> 3.Outback:
> >>
> >> a.We could purchase an Outback FX1000 and install three brea

Re: [RE-wrenches] DC Series Fusing in inverters

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jason...as you know, the fusing should match the max series fuse ratings of
the module requirements per the module manufacturerIf strings are
individually fused and combined before the fused disconnect box then the
fuses often need to be changed from the factory supplied 15A fusesNote
the maximum allowed by SMA per the disconnect limitations per string of
their disconnect.Fronius used to supply metal slugs that fit in the
fuse holders if no fusing was required on the input.
Didn't some of the Evergreen modules call for 20A series fuses?
Good luck..

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o


On Thu, Feb 6, 2014 at 9:56 AM, Glenn Burt  wrote:

> I think I just read that SMA has changed their long-standing 15A per
> string fuses to 20A.
>
> You might look to see if it applies to existing systems.
>
> Hope it helps.
>
>
>
> Glenn
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Jason Szumlanski
> *Sent:* Thursday, February 06, 2014 12:50 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] DC Series Fusing in inverters
>
>
>
> SMA inverters typically come with 15A KLKD fuses pre-installed. I have
> seen a bunch of blown fuses recently (after cold weather)... It seems that
> some dealers are just assuming the 15A fuse is okay for series strings and
> not doing the calculations. I've been finding quite a few Evergreen systems
> or parallel connected two-string SunPower systems that should have 20A
> fuses per NEC 690.8. The problem does seem to be worse where inverters are
> exposed to direct sunlight, presumably from fuses that no longer meet their
> ampacity rating due to heat.
>
>
>
> Anyone else run into this frequently?
>
>
>
> Jason Szumlanski
>
> Fafco Solar
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 72-cell modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Allan.we have gotten the epolly modules from Erika Karnitz at Backwoods
Solarthey seem to have a regular supplywe use them with shurflo
9300 pump systems.they have reasonable pricing...
Kirpal Khalsa
Renewable Energy Systems
541-299-0402

On Friday, January 31, 2014, Roy Butler  wrote:

>  Allan,
>
> We just finished replacing a BP SX170 pole top array under warranty and BP
> provided us with the Ameresco 4190J modules.
> We had to install cords with the MC4 connectors on the J-boxes but other
> than that, they bolted right in.
>
> The dimensions are almost identical to the SX-170 and the bolt holes line
> up nicelyand they are a 72 cell module.
>
> FYIwe have no nearby warranty contractor so BP actually paid us to do
> the work.I hung a copy of the check on my office wall ;-)
>
> Roy Butler
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
> NYSERDA eligible PV & wind installer
> Four Winds Renewable Energy, LLC
> 8902 Route 46, Arkport, NY 14807
> 607-324-9747  www.four-winds-energy.com
>
> Join us at the 10th Annual Small Wind Conference
> A Gathering of Installers, Manufacturers, Dealers, & Distributors
> June 17 and 18, 2014 in Stevens Point, Wisconsinwww.smallwindconference.com
>
> Although no trees were killed in the sending of this message,
> a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
>
>
>
> On 1/30/2014 11:37 PM, Allan Sindelar wrote:
>
> Wrenches,
> About a year ago I asked for suggestions of 72-cell modules with 125 mm
> cells - the standard 155-195W modules of just a few years ago. Now we
> really need some.
>
> We have a good customer for whom we put in an off grid system in 2006.
> 48V, 27 BP SX170 modules on three Wattsun trackers. Each tracker holds nne
> modules, wired as three 72V strings of three modules each.
>
> Yes, the notorious SX170s. Four with burn spots were replaced in 2008, 6
> more in 2010, and now ten more failed or are showing discoloration. BP's
> warranty contractor has agreed to replace the wattage equivalent of 23 of
> them at $2.00/W. They will either ship us replacement modules or send a
> check for purchase of replacements elsewhere. The problem is that their
> only offerings are 60-cell modules, which won't fit the trackers.
>
> BP got out of the solar business before the standard configuration went to
> the larger 156 mm cells. I would have appreciated a serious corporate
> effort to procure warranty stock of modules that were most like the ones
> manufactured by BP, so that they would more readily replace their warranty
> failures. That apparently is not to be.
>
> The SX170s are 31.1" (790mm) by 62.8" (1593 mm). I need to locate some
> 72-cell modules in this standard dimension range. We'd probably buy 27 of
> them, once we determine that the replacements can be fit to the racks.
>
> Can anyone suggest a brand/model/supplier etc.? I have seen that Eopply
> shows 195W mono modules in the U.S. section of their website (thanks, Chris
> Daum) and I'll call them in the morning. Any other suggestions, please?
>
> Thank you,
> Allan
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> *al...@positiveenergysolar.com*
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder, *Positive Energy, Inc.*
>
> A Certified B CorporationTM
> 3209 Richards Lane
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112 office 780-2738 cell*
> *www.positiveenergysolar.com* <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/>
>
>
>
>
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-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-299-0402 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual 7248VFX system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Folks!!! Thanks for all the ideas and suggestions regarding the flickering
LED lights...I think we have found the culpritsalthough I don't have a
good understanding as to why...I am sure you could shed some (non
flickering) light on the subject so that i might understand why more
clearly..
The main culprit causing the flickering was the fridge compressor.the
fridge was plugged into a GFI outletwhen plugged into a non GFI outlet
the problem vanished!!  It turns out that the other loads that caused this
flickering were also plugged into GFI outlets and when plugged into
standard non GFI outlets caused no flickering.The flickering remained
steady as long as the load was operatingnot just on start up.
The dimmer switches did not seem to affect the flickering by them selves
Problem solved- but my  understanding is lacking
Thank you!!!



Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 12:14 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:

> I checked one of my mobile rigs with dual VFX3648 with a transformer and
> 36 kWhrs of total battery capacity it has 4 foot LED's and with the
> inverter on ON not search it works great I keep going back to programming
> some time back my program was messed with and it was on search mode we had
> audio problems during a concert because one of the inverters was set to
> high it was pulsing like your lights and it was programming
> Jerry
>
>
> On Tue, Jan 7, 2014 at 11:07 AM, Bob-O Schultze <
> bo...@electronconnection.com> wrote:
>
>> I run an old VFX3524 and have LEDs EVERYWHERE in our offgrid home. Two on
>> dimmers. One ac freezer, one DC freezer and one DC fridge. Washing machine,
>> dishwasher, nuke, all that jazz. No flickers anywhere and the old house
>> grounding system sucks bad. Bought most of my LED lamps from Costco.
>> Bob-O
>>
>> On Jan 7, 2014, at 8:32 AM, jay peltz wrote:
>>
>> Hi bill
>>
>> My $.02.
>>
>> Single vfx3524, Trojan IND in an AC electric house with about a dozen
>> LEDs of 5 or 6 different types and brands.
>>
>> No flickering at all, no dimmers.
>>
>> One test I thought of was to,run the generator and see if the flicker
>> continues.
>> If so, then bypass the inverters to take the chargers off line,
>>
>> As to bulbs, I've been super happy with the Cree ones from Home Depot.
>> $10 ish and beautiful light both warm and daylight.
>>
>> Jay
>>
>> Peltz power
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual 7248 VFX system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Thanks folks for the ideas!  So far I have advised a few things.I will
report back any successes..

Here is the advice I have shared.
1. Get some different makes and models of LED light bulbs to try out
2. Get some different dimmer switches to try out
3. Try some lights on non dimmer type switches.
4. Switch the fridge to the other leg of their 120\240 V service.
5. Check battery cables for loose connections.
6. Get a new fridge..(they are hoping to avoid this and it is not the only
load causing the problem)

This is an odd problem.The battery bank and inverter are more than
adequately sized for the loadsThe fridge only draws 7 A when
runningand the problem is not just under start up it is present the
entire time it is running.The same is true for any other motor type
loads that are runningbig or small.long term the fridge is the most
problematic load because of the regular and unpredictable run times
As LED's become more wide spread and available and cheaper I am hoping not
to run into this problem more often.They can be a huge attribute to an
energy efficient off grid home
Thanks for the advice...keep it coming
Thank you!
On Jan 6, 2014 4:33 PM, "Dan Fink"  wrote:

> I think it's for sure how fast LEDs react boB. That's why I don't see it
> with other lighting technologies like CFL etc.
> But I don't understand  a fridge that causes constant flicker when it is
> on. Too bad it's not easy to just try another fridge! Trying another light
> is much easier ;-)
>
> Dan Fink,
> Executive Director;
> Otherpower
> Buckville Energy Consulting
> Buckville Publications LLC
> NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers
> 970.672.4342
>
>
>
>
> On Mon, Jan 6, 2014 at 5:25 PM, b...@midnitesolar.com  > wrote:
>
>>
>> Only during Big load surges ?
>>
>> Could it be current limiting and because LEDs are so fast on and off, you
>> notice the drop in momentary voltage ?
>>
>> Any inverter might do that under the right conditions.
>>
>> Just a thought.
>>
>> boB
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 1/6/2014 3:45 PM, Dan Fink wrote:
>>
>> I consider LED flicker as very common when a fridge starts up, but NOT
>> while it's running. Both dimmed and not dimmed LEDs. I see flicker more
>> often on systems with smaller (or aging) battery systems of course. The
>> only particular appliance I have found causing constant flicker here and
>> with my clients is a particular brand of laser printer. And also a
>> subwoofer on the stereo (light show!)a different subwoofer brand solved
>> that problem. Go figure, I have no idea why. Most of my inverters are by
>> Magnum. I have not found much difference with LED brands or dimmer brands.
>> I can see how this could be a problem for your client, Kirpal. None of
>> mine seem to mind a startup flicker, but if its constant that's a big
>> problem. I wish I had an answer for you, but I hope that providing this
>> information helps others. CFLs do not give me the same problem, but of
>> course have their own other problems.
>>
>> Dan Fink,
>> Executive Director;
>> Otherpower
>> Buckville Energy Consulting
>> Buckville Publications LLC
>> NABCEP / IREC accredited Continuing Education Providers
>> 970.672.4342
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Jan 6, 2014 at 2:48 PM, Jay Peltz  wrote:
>>
>>> Dimmers are super specific to light brand/type.  You'll have to do the
>>> research
>>>
>>> For now swapping to regular switches should work
>>>
>>> Jay
>>>
>>>
>>> >
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual 7248 VFX system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Thank you DanI will have customer check that!  Good idea.That is
always a good idea!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Mon, Jan 6, 2014 at 1:38 PM,  wrote:

> Might be worth checking battery connections..
>
>
> Dan Brown
> Foxfire Energy Corp.
> Renewable Energy Systems
> (802)-483-2564
> www.Foxfire-Energy.com
> NABCEP #092907-44
>
>
>   Original Message 
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual
> 7248 VFX system
> From: Jay Peltz 
> Date: Mon, January 06, 2014 4:28 pm
> To: RE-wrenches 
>
> Hi Kirpal
>
> Are the lights on dimmers?
>
> Jay
> Peltz power
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Jan 6, 2014, at 1:09 PM, Kirpal Khalsa  wrote:
>
> Hi All.have a puzzling problemcustomer has a fully LED lit house.
>   All LED lights are flickering when the fridge compressor, tile saw,
> grinder, washing machine etc come onThe inverters are about 6 years old
> Dual Outback VFX7248 power system with rolls surrrette batteries.they
> are building the house and most motors when they are running, including the
> fridge seem to cause the LED lights to flicker continuously while the
> motors are running, the fridge seems to be the worst culprit and just so
> happens to be the most regular and often runner (fridge is a Amana Model #
> ARB2257CC rated at 7.7 AmpsFridge is on a GFI outlet...The LED bulbs
> are Eco Smart made by Cree.Model 499 485 and they are all dimmable
> lights and they are on Lutron CL dimmer switches which are supposed to be
> compatible with LED bulbs.)
> Looking for any advice or others experience to try to solve this annoying
> problem.Anyone else have this problem with these particular bulbs or
> similar experiences with these or other LED bulbs
> I am having the customer try some other makes and brands of bulbs.
>
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual 7248 VFX system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jay...yes the lights are on Lutron dimmer switches which are made
specifically for CFL and LED lights.it doesn't seem to make a
difference if they lights are on full tilt or dimmed downthe flickering
is there at any power level
Thanks!!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Mon, Jan 6, 2014 at 1:28 PM, Jay Peltz  wrote:

> Hi Kirpal
>
> Are the lights on dimmers?
>
> Jay
> Peltz power
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Jan 6, 2014, at 1:09 PM, Kirpal Khalsa  wrote:
>
> Hi All.have a puzzling problemcustomer has a fully LED lit house.
>   All LED lights are flickering when the fridge compressor, tile saw,
> grinder, washing machine etc come onThe inverters are about 6 years old
> Dual Outback VFX7248 power system with rolls surrrette batteries.they
> are building the house and most motors when they are running, including the
> fridge seem to cause the LED lights to flicker continuously while the
> motors are running, the fridge seems to be the worst culprit and just so
> happens to be the most regular and often runner (fridge is a Amana Model #
> ARB2257CC rated at 7.7 AmpsFridge is on a GFI outlet...The LED bulbs
> are Eco Smart made by Cree.Model 499 485 and they are all dimmable
> lights and they are on Lutron CL dimmer switches which are supposed to be
> compatible with LED bulbs.)
> Looking for any advice or others experience to try to solve this annoying
> problem.Anyone else have this problem with these particular bulbs or
> similar experiences with these or other LED bulbs
> I am having the customer try some other makes and brands of bulbs.
>
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
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[RE-wrenches] Flickering LED lights on and Outback Dual 7248 VFX system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi All.have a puzzling problemcustomer has a fully LED lit house.
All LED lights are flickering when the fridge compressor, tile saw,
grinder, washing machine etc come onThe inverters are about 6 years old
Dual Outback VFX7248 power system with rolls surrrette batteries.they
are building the house and most motors when they are running, including the
fridge seem to cause the LED lights to flicker continuously while the
motors are running, the fridge seems to be the worst culprit and just so
happens to be the most regular and often runner (fridge is a Amana Model #
ARB2257CC rated at 7.7 AmpsFridge is on a GFI outlet...The LED bulbs
are Eco Smart made by Cree.Model 499 485 and they are all dimmable
lights and they are on Lutron CL dimmer switches which are supposed to be
compatible with LED bulbs.)
Looking for any advice or others experience to try to solve this annoying
problem.Anyone else have this problem with these particular bulbs or
similar experiences with these or other LED bulbs
I am having the customer try some other makes and brands of bulbs.

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Wiring methods

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Augustthank youyou are right they are actually a Heyco
productmy bad!!!  Ray, we recently got them thru
http://www.heilind.com/products/heyco/Heyco_solar.asp

Ray...Contact me off list and i will share my sales persons contact
info..
Cheers,

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o

>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Wiring methods

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Bill.we have been using the Hellerman Tyton Sunbundler cable
tiesThey are braided stainless steel wire with a UV resistant vinyl
jacketWe have been getting them in quantities of 500 for approximately
$.59 eachfor the 12" length tiesWe like them alotthey do not
have any sharp edges and are easy to install
Hope that helps


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Thu, Nov 14, 2013 at 7:46 AM, frenergy  wrote:

>  William, Billfrom another Bill,
>
> Two things:  For the rest of us (maybe it's just me?!) that's
> still trying to figure out how (or why) to stuff a MC4 connector into
> conduit and my hesitation in using SS wire ties for fear of the sharp edges
> cutting or chaffing into cables, I'm open for advice. Any wire I use on the
> roof is rated for that type of service and I have some off-grid systems
> that have been in the sun for some 25 years where the wire still looks
> nearly new even when flexing it to look for checking/cracks.  It seems
> the wire/insulation can take it, thus it seems like the key to "wire
> management is to keep the wire from moving and off the roof, secured to the
> racking, thus not compromising the insulation.
>
> I know many on this list are way past this point in their
> installation skills.  However my living in a county in the bush of just 20K
> folks, I haven't had the opportunity to install 100's of systemsyet.
> Again, I express my humble appreciation of experienced wrenches to help
> those of us working to install the tightest systems possible despite living
> in the boonies.
>
> Details on where to source appropriate SS wire ties (rounded
> edges?, plastic coated?) would be appreciated.  My goto place for such
> things (Grainger) has "regular" SS wire ties that range from $1.50 to $3
> each, but none that I can see that address the sharp edge issue...or is
> that an issue?  Have people been using regular SS wire ties in the field
> for 10-20 years, behind a roof mounted array without any issues related to
> the wire ties?
> Thanks for your help and patience,
>
> Bill
>
> Feather River Solar Electric
> 4291 Nelson St.
> Taylorsville, CA  95983
> 530.284.7849 / 6544 fax
> "solar powered since 1982"
>
> - Original Message -
> From: "Bill Loesch" 
> To: "RE-wrenches" 
> Sent: Thursday, November 14, 2013 1:34 AM
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Wiring methods
>
> >
> > Hi William (and any other person who wishes to describe themselves as
> > professional (designer, installer, etc.)),
> >
> > Please accept this note as confirmation that your evangelism on wire
> > management has not fallen on entirely deaf ears.
> >
> > Additionally, I'm curious how the practice of requiring a ten year
> > equipment warranty squares with the acceptance of plastic wire ties.
> >
> > Sincere thanks from one convert,
> >
> > Bill Loesch
> > Solar 1 - Saint Louis Solar
> >
> >
> >
> > On Wed, Nov 13, 2013 at 3:41 PM, William Miller wrote:
> >
> >> Bill:
> >>
> >>
> >> I respectfully disagree with your logic:  Define "perfectly
> >> installed."  If
> >> your connections are tight and permanent and the conductors are
> >> protected
> >> from damage, you have a great chance of a reliable, safe lifetime of
> >> service.  How can you guarantee that your leads will stay protected
> >> after
> >> the ties fail?  Studies show that even UV resistant wire ties will
> >> fail well
> >> before the life expectancy of the system has expired.  When the ties
> >> fail,
> >> your PV leads are hanging on the roof.  Even before the ties fail,
> >> rodents
> >> can chew on them.  Conduit was invented for a reason and we should be
> >> using
> >> it.
> >>
> >>
> >> I agree that arc-fault breakers will improve the situation, but I
> >> don't
> >> think any form of OCPD is a substitute for good wiring practices.  I
> >> think
> >> wire protection is just as important on PV circuits as it is on any
> >> other
> >> high voltage circuit.  Try getting away with wiring a rooftop air
> >> conditioning unit by tying the conductors to some metal framework with
> >> plastic ties and see how long it takes to get red-tagged by your local
> >> inspector.
> >>
> >>
> >> I suspect we've gotten to where we

Re: [RE-wrenches] Square D Disconnects mounted on the slope of the roof.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Bob O..thank you, you got to the heart of my original questionI am
not questioning the OCPD ratingsjust the can mounted at a slope
equivalent to the roof slope.Typically if we have rooftop OCPD they are
high voltage fuse holders and fuses or the Outback and Midnite solar
breakers.I haven't actually looked up the temp ratings on those but
have assumed (i know) that they are rated for roof top temps as they are
marketed as combiner box breakers and combiners are often located on the
hot roof next to the modulesOregon has a rule where many jurisdictions
are now requiring lockable, visible disconnects on roofs for fire fighters
to be able to disconnect the array from the BOS down below from up on the
roof.In my opinion this is of limited use in micro inverter and
optimizer systems.but i can see some limited value in high voltage
string inverter systems..I should also note that i am primarily
referring to smaller residential systems.(~3-10Kw)
>From what i have gleaned from this discussion, Midnite solar has a single
circuit 600V disconnect, (apparently a multi string disconnect as well, I
haven't fully researched that all the way thru yet) DC Sunvolt out of NJ
also has a line of disconnecting combiners which we have used a few times,
and  Crouse Hinds has some jumbo disconnecting combiner boxes that are way
over sized and also over priced.
Thanks for all your input...


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Mon, Nov 11, 2013 at 10:09 AM, Bob-O Schultze <
bo...@electronconnection.com> wrote:

> Dan,
> I think this thread applied not to OCDs but to an unfused 600VDC
> disconnect can mounted on a roof which is less than vertical.
> Bob-O
> On Nov 11, 2013, at 9:21 AM, Exeltech wrote:
>
> Wrenches,
>
> There appears to be some misinformation getting into this thread.
>
> The "trip" mechanism within standard thermal over-current protective
> devices ("OCP devices") is mechanically spring-loaded, and is triggered by
> heat.
>
> Eric mentions below that Square D breakers are tested in a vertical
> orientation only - the implication being that's their only "UL certified"
> position.  If this were true, it would imply the breakers cannot be used in
> any other orientation.  This would potentially limit the Square D OCP
> market to sub-panels and other enclosures where the devices are vertical.
>  Inasmuch as the vast majority of panelboards I've encountered in my 40+
> years in this industry have the breakers stacked horizontally, it would not
> be a wise business decision for the manufacturer to self-inflict such a
> limitation on their product.
>
> This also does not mean any such limitation (real or not) applies to all
> breakers.
>
> By way of example, OCP devices work in a horizontal position, stacked
> "pancake" style in a main panelboard, as well as vertically oriented
> side-by-side in a sub-panel.  In either orientation, they are  in full
> compliance with UL 489, (UL Standard for Circuit Breakers, Switches, and
> Circuit Breaker Enclosures).  If an OCP device *was*
> positionally-sensitive, UL Standards require this sensitivity to be noted
> in the documentation accompanying the device.  Further to that point, UL
> 489 Section 7.1.1.13 states: "In determining if a circuit breaker complies
> with the test requirements, the device shall be mounted or supported as in
> service and tested under conditions approximating those of intended
> operation, except as otherwise noted."
>
> Mounting position notwithstanding, a greater concern would be the ambient
> temperature of a rooftop location, whereby summer heat would tend to make
> the OCP device more sensitive than necessary, potentially causing it to
> trip at an amperage below that of its UL ratings.  While a nuisance, a more
> serious issue arises when operating the OCP device in cold ambient
> conditions, whereby the device may allow MORE than its rated trip current
> to flow.
>
> Per UL 489, OCP devices are tested at either 25C or 40C ambient.  Again
> per UL 489, if an OCP device is to be used in ambient conditions other than
> those two ranges, the acceptable temperature range for that OCP device
> shall be marked on the body of the device.
>
> In UL 489, Supplemental Annex, Section 2, Subsection 2.3.3, mechanical
> vibration testing is conducted with OCP devices oriented vertically,
> horizontally, and inclined 30 degrees from vertical, with all devices
> energized up to 200% of the device rated current during the testing.
>
> Given the preceding, and per implication of UL 489 testing methods, OCP
> devices are NOT positionally sensitive.

Re: [RE-wrenches] Square D Disconnects mounted on the slope of the roof.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Drake...we have made mounting brackets to make box vertical before but our
customers complained about aesthetics.Hence the search for a parallel
to the roof slope mounting box quest..Bob O i will look at the midnite
dual pole 600VDC optionThat sounds like what we are looking for
Thanks

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Sat, Nov 9, 2013 at 10:35 AM, Ray Walters  wrote:

>  We've made up mounting brackets with unistrut for this purpose as well.
> We just bend their regular 45 deg angle brackets to match the roof tilt.
> It's a bit of work though, so we are going to other solutions like the
> Soladek, or just putting the combiner box in a different location.
>
> R.Ray Walters
> CTO, Solarray, Inc
> Nabcep Certified PV Installer,
> Licensed Master Electrician
> Solar Design Engineer303 505-8760
>
> On 11/9/2013 11:01 AM, Drake wrote:
>
> A NEMA 3R box can be mounted vertically on a sloping roof by attaching
> brackets to the sides of the box and leveling the box. The bracket or
> L-foot can allow the box to swivel to vertical.
>
> [image: Emacs!]
>
>
> At 09:33 AM 11/8/2013, you wrote:
>
> Hi Kirpal,
> All Square D safety switches are UL tested in the Vertical position ONLY,
> so if someone is trying to install a switch in any other position other
> than vertical, that will be between them and the inspector. Hope this helps
> .
> Eric
> _
>
> * Eric Bentsen*  |  * Schneider Electric **  |  Solar Business*  |   *UNITED
> STATES*  |   *Technical Support Representative*
> * Phone:* +(650) 351-8237 ext. 001#  |
> * Email:* 
> *eric.bent...@schneider-electric.com*
> |   *Site:*  <http://www.schneider-electric.com/solar>*
> www.schneider-electric.com/solar <http://www.schneider-electric.com/solar>*
> |   *Address:* 250 South Vasco Rd., Livermore, CA 94551
>
>  [image: []] <http://www.schneider-electric.htm>
> *** Please consider the environment before printing this e-mail
>
>
>
> From: Kirpal Khalsa  
> To: RE-wrenches 
> 
> Date: 11/07/2013 01:42 PM
> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Square D Disconnects mounted on the slope of the
> roof.
> Sent by: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
>
>
>
>
>
> Hi Folks!!!
> Anyone aware of minimum slope requirements for Square D 321RB
> disconnectsCan they be mounted on rails parallel to the slope of the
> roof like Outback and Midnite solar combiner boxes(down to a 3/12 pitch)
> I can't seem to find any notes stating the limitations in manufacturer
> documentation.. They are NEMA 3 of course
> Thanks in advance for any direction you can provide
>
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> * www.oregonsolarworks.com <http://www.oregonsolarworks.com/> *
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Square D Disconnects mounted on the slope of the roof.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Thank you all for the ideas and infoin many parts of Oregon you are
required to have a rooftop fireman's disconnectwe have been using a
variety of methods...for small residential we are currently using the
midnite solar box with the disconnect handle and their 600vdc breaker but
this only works for one stringthe other option we have found is a bit
spendy and is made by DC SunVolt out of NJ They can do two strings with
their multipole disco...to feed two separate inverters...I was hoping that
we could use the square d for this purpose along with its three poles but
now with your help I have confirmed that this won't workoh well, back
to two midnite solar discos.
Thank you all...

>  Sunny Regards,
>
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
>
>
>

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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[RE-wrenches] Square D Disconnects mounted on the slope of the roof.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi Folks!!!
Anyone aware of minimum slope requirements for Square D 321RB
disconnectsCan they be mounted on rails parallel to the slope of the
roof like Outback and Midnite solar combiner boxes(down to a 3/12 pitch)
I can't seem to find any notes stating the limitations in manufacturer
documentation.. They are NEMA 3 of course
Thanks in advance for any direction you can provide

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o



>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] question about pole mount interconnection

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Chrisi like your design with the vaults!  Future proof! Do you make
your transition to rigid metal conduit in the concrete?  Seems solid!
Thanks for sharing...

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Tue, Oct 8, 2013 at 10:24 AM, Chris Worcester
wrote:

> Hi Ron,
> We do a lot of pole mounts, last one was 12' to the bottom of modules, deep
> snow country. Typically in a system where there are or has the potential to
> expand into more than the original pole mounted array we run a couple of
> main PVC conduits underground to a concrete vault, like a C-9, C-24, or
> maybe even a C-30 vault. From this vault we distribute the conduits to each
> pole mount, or in a larger field like the 8 poles you're mentioning we
> might
> go into a second vault closer to the other end of the field, then branch
> out
> to each pole from it too. We use PVC underground, Rigid metal through the
> concrete and up the pole. Hope this helps.
>
> Chris Worcester
> Solar Wind Works
> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
> Office 530-582-4503
> Cell 530-448-9692
> Fax 530-582-4603
> www.solarwindworks.com
> ch...@solarwindworks.com
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] question about pole mount interconnection

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Ronwe do a lot of pole mount installations and we always run down each
pole and up the nextschedule 80 pvc conduit and a junction box at the
top.  It is solid, and should last as long as the array---at least 25+
yearsobviously to do this right the conduit should be installed prior
to the concrete as it then comes up vertically right along the
pole.definitely takes a bit longer to set up but you can be assured
that it is going to last for the long hauladditionally if you are ever
going to have the arrays adjustable on the top of pole mounts it will be
tricky to adjust if the cabling is in free air spanning from one sub array
to the next.as each array will be dependent on the positioning of the
other
Good luck


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Mon, Oct 7, 2013 at 8:08 PM, Ron @ earthRight Solar <
solarea...@solareagle.com> wrote:

> Hi Wrenches, I am installing six 8 panel pole mounts in a grid tied
> system. My question is about preference for cable run between the poles. I
> am interested in industry best practices. I have been told that running
> conduit between the poles, i.e. along the axis, will hold the cabling but
> the poles of course must be precisely aligned. The alternative is to run
> cabling down the poles, underground and up the next pole. This is wasteful
> of materials, expensive to the client and in my view presents as many
> safety concerns as the other option. Hope to hear some ideas.
>
> Ron
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[RE-wrenches] Business

[Kirpal Khalsa]

We have found the grid tie market to be more and more crowded with a race
to the bottom in terms of pricing and marginswe love battery based
systemsboth grid tie and off grid.its definitely less crowded
competition wise and we get more jobs because of the fact that we have
experience doing a lot of battery based systems.
"Give the people what they want",
I personally like working in remote sitessome of our best jobs were way
in the booniesbeyond the end of the power lines and had incredible
swimming holes we could jump in during lunch break or were so far in the
woods we were stepping on wild mushrooms while setting up the arrayat
the end of the day the tool pouches were loaded not must with tools but
also mushrooms!
Do good workthat is what will keep you in business...batteries or
notrich or poor, conservative or liberal...it don't matter the
background.when they get to see their solar systems turn on the smiles
are a mile wide.mine too!

Cheers,
Kirpal (aspiring solar hippy :-))

On Aug 17, 2013 8:42 AM, "Solarguy"  wrote:
>
> > >> Funny reminds me of the old days,
>
>
>
> I seem to recall a lot of years back, on this same discussion site, a
similar exchange. It seems that one installer was looking for advice
concerning an overly demanding customer with unreasonable expectations for
a PV systems performance.
>
> The customer was the Dept. of Defense.
>
> Opposing points-of-view questioned why any Wrench in their right mind
would waste perfectly good, and expensive, PV on someone whose goal was
world domination and death to all who opposed them. I’ll sell ‘em PV
because I’m in the business of selling PV was the response.
>
> Other debates have sprung from Wrenches complaining that potential
customers have two SUVs parked in front of a 6500 sf home. These people
clearly don’t get it! Why should I waste PV on them?
>
> The answer is always the same. Because it’s what we do.
>
> McMansion owners and the DOD are now believers and established customers.
>
> Now there is no one that wouldn’t agree that the growing exodus from our
decaying, congested and polluted urban metromess will not continue to
increase. It’s no different now than years ago. Sell them all the PV they
are willing to pay for but do it with unabashed honesty. And when they are
neck deep in challenges from their lifestyle decision, they will always
remember that you warned them that it would be like this. And they will
respect you for it if they have an ounce of integrity.
>
> This new generation of get-out-of-town with their all-electric lifestyle
may be our next market segment to deal with. If you don’t want their
business then some other PV installer will. If the job’s done right the
first time it benefits us all. If not we all take one step back.
>
> Our industry competition includes the coal, natural gas and electric
utility cartel. They and a lot of politicians, stand shoulder to shoulder
in opposition to individuals generating their own power. You had better
take every customer you can get and make a believer out of them because the
competition is doing everything they can to put up hurdles to PV growth.
>
> And because ours is one of those industries that trains-your-competition
it’s important that we train them to high standards. It’s not easy being a
pioneer.
>
> Jim Duncan
>
>
>
>
>
> From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Hilton Dier III
> Sent: Saturday, August 17, 2013 9:13 AM
> To: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
> Subject: [RE-wrenches] PV Assist - customer management
>
>
>
> This: "PS: the "good" customers are not necessarily the greenest people,
they are the ones that reduce consumption as best they can, do their
homework, trust me and pay on time."
>
> I'd add, "and have a grasp on the realities of the situation."
>
> There are people who will never grasp that you can't consistently leave a
battery at 90% DOD for a week without shortening its life. Or that solar
irradiance drops in the winter. You can recite the facts to them and they
will nod and look like they are absorbing information, but memory fades and
a month later they will complain about the exact thing you explained to
them.
>
> William, whatever you do with these clients, I recommend that you write a
short disclaimer about battery life and have them read it and sign it. "I
acknowledge that this particular design and implementation is not ideal for
long battery life. I do not expect the battery banks as installed and used
to last their advertised cycle life." Or something like that. When they ask
why you aren't designing it differently, quote them the price for a system
that would preserve the batteries. Pick their jaw up off the ground for
them, hand it back, and make them sign. At the very least it will put them
on notice that the reality of the situation is not ideal.
>
> Good luck.
>
> Hilton
>
>
>
>
>
> --
>
> Hilton Dier III
>
> Renewabl

Re: [RE-wrenches] Hawker versusu MK

[Kirpal Khalsa]

William.we have used a set of industrial flooded lead acid batteries
made by a company called Storage Battery Systems (www.sbs*battery*.com)The
batteries are 2V batteries with 3200Ah capacityThey come with a variety
of warranty options. Our client decided on the 20 year option (5 years
full, 15years prorated)  They have a clear case so you can easily with just
a glance see the level of the electrolyte.They have tubular plates and
came with all the interconnects which cover any exposed metal at the
terminals once they are hooked up.. except a small hole to insert your
voltmeter leadsThey have 4 terminals on each battery so if you need to
run multiple homerun cables you have plenty of plenty of options with out
having to double lug your battery cables on a single terminal. They have
been in operation for almost 4years now without so much as showing any hint
of wear.While they are expensive they also offer extras such as seismic
racking, spill containment systems, and hydrogen gas level alarms.  The
feeling that i got from this company is that they are more in the
industrial battery market and not so much the renewable energy
marketThey are worth a look.we are really happy with their
product

More frequently though we use the Rolls Surrette series 5000
batteries...They also have been reliablewe once had a reverse polarity
from the factory so check polarity of each battery before hooking them
up.These are our main go to batteries when a larger than 800ish Ah
battery bank is called for.  Trojan also has their newer line of industrial
batteriesWe have used them a couple timeswarranty is not as good as
the Rollsbut they have the dual cases like the rolls and seemed like
good batteriesBoth the Trojan and Rolls are supplied with string
interconnects(make sure to remind your distributor)
We have had to train our distributor to supply good quality stainless bolts
(with sufficient length) with lock washers and washers with all battery
purchases
Good luck...


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Tue, Aug 13, 2013 at 7:57 AM, jay peltz  wrote:

> I agree with Daryl and Tump
>
> And would add Trojan IND as an option to the Rolls and made in SoCal
>
> Also most of the industrial battery folks make 2v cells.
>
> Jay
> Peltz power.
>
>
>
>
> On Aug 13, 2013, at 4:55 AM, penobscotso...@midmaine.com wrote:
>
> > I second Tump's experience!
> >
> > Daryl DeJoy
> > NABCEP Certified PV installer
> > Penobscot Solar Design
> >
> >
> >> I install large battery banks ALL the time. We DO NOT use any battery
> that
> >> is incased in a metal enclosure.
> >> REAL pain to move, cells DO go bad & when they do its a real pain to
> bring
> >> the engine hoist to remove them. Hard to keep the cases from leaking &
> >> rusting.
> >> We DO use the Surrette 2 volt cells in the dual container exclusively.
> >> These are rated as a "containment vessel", & much easier to move. In the
> >> event when a cell does go bad, use a jumper to bypass the bad cell,
> >> operate w/ a lower LBCO setting leave the CC settings the same, while
> >> waiting for replacement.
> >> 1700 AH -2400 AH.
> >> By the time you have the tractor/back hoe on site, my 2 volt cells are
> up
> >> n running! E mail me off list and I can give you a few tricks to move
> >> them.
> >> On Aug 13, 2013, at 3:28 AM, William Miller wrote:
> >>
> >>> Friends:
> >>>
> >>> We are shopping for industrial, flooded, lead acid batteries.  We are
> >>> considering 12 volt packages in the 1800 AH range.  Under consideration
> >>> are:
> >>>
> >>> Hawker 12-25W-23S at 1705 AH or MK 106M1033STB at 1896 AH.
> >>>
> >>> Have any of you had experience with either, or recommend another
> option?
> >>>
> >>> As always, I am extremely grateful to all of you for the limitless
> >>> wisdom offered.
> >>>
> >>> Sinceerly,
> >>>
> >>> William Miller
> >>>
> >>> ___
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> >>>
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> >>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Unknown rail.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

snapnrack

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Wed, Jul 31, 2013 at 1:21 PM, All Solar  wrote:

> Can anyone please identify the rail on the photo?
>
> Regards
> Jeremy Rodriguez
> AllSolar
>
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand!
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Charging voltages

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Jesse.why wouldn't you wire at least 2 modules in seriesthis way
you have less breakers to deal with, less cord grips if paralleling in a
combiner box, less homerun cables to the combiner and you will also benefit
from greater energy harvest in your MPPT conversion particularly during
cold weather
If you go with 1 module strings and have hot weather your voltage sag in
the summer you will be on the low edge of voltage window to properly charge
a 24V battery bank.
i would check the charge voltage recommendations from the battery
manufacturer for proper charging parametersusually the voltage
recommendations call for lower voltages than FLA batteries...may be helpful
for being able to charge your sealed batteries from a single module.  It is
still borderline...
I have always believed that the 60 cell modules were a bit on the low side
for 24V battery charging.  In the past that is what the 72 cell  modules
were forbut those are fewer and farther between these days, except int
he larger 300+ watt modules
If you had 9 modules i would even go with strings of 3or if you want to
get really efficient you could wire in strings of 4 with the Midnite Solar
Classic 200 charge controller.you would definitely be bumping into
amperage limits.but that is ok...
good luck...


Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Mon, May 13, 2013 at 7:34 PM, Jesse Dahl  wrote:

> Hello,
>
> I'm interested in charging voltages for AGM batteries. After my visit to
> the site mentioned in the battery box thread, I was thinking about the
> system.
>
> New install, 8 solarworld 255s charging a 24V battery bank through a
> outback FM80 (MPPT) All 8 modules in parallel.
> VOC - 37.8
> VMP - 31.4
> ISC - 8.66
> IMP - 8.15
>
> I'm interested in the setpoints people use for AGMs because it seems like
> this might be cutting it close to the setpoints based on the array voltage.
> Since the system is using a MPPT controller would it be better to increase
> the array voltage?
>
> Battery bank is 6 12V 245ah east penn bats wired 3 strings of 2.
>
> I haven't used sealed batteries outside my fish house and boat so I'm
> looking for some detailed info if I can get it.
>
> Thanks a lot!
>
> Jesse
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Wasps

[Kirpal Khalsa]

get them at nite...they are completely harmless as long as you don't grab
them...they wont fly and if you know where their nests are you can get them
easily after darkthis is also an organic wasp removal system
it is interesting that back sides of solar panels are one of wasps favorite
homesiteson the up side..the wasps provide free theft protection
during the day!

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Thu, May 2, 2013 at 12:15 PM, Ryan  wrote:

>  Why get rid of them? Not trying to be a wise a$$ but Wasps need a place
> to live and if they are not bothering her it may be a safe place to let
> them stay.
>
> Ryan
>
>
> On 5/2/2013 2:13 PM, Dana Brandt wrote:
>
>  Hi Wrenches,
>
>  I have a client who has developed quite a problem with wasps behind her
> array. Does anyone have experience getting rid of them? I'm afraid of the
> possibility of sprays damaging the backsheet. Is that a legitimate concern?
>
> Thanks,
>
>  Dana
>
> Dana Brandt
> Ecotech Energy Systems, LLC
> www.ecotechenergy.com
> d...@ecotechenergy.com
> 360.318.7646
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 24V Rolls Charging Parameters?

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Steve.15 hours of Absorb charge!?  Is this just during the initial
charge during commissioning? to set the Flexnet DC calibration?
Thanks for the clarification...
Cheers,
Kirpal Khalsa
Renewable Energy Systems LLC



-- Forwarded message --
From: Steve Higgins 
Date: Tue, Apr 30, 2013 at 12:31 PM
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] 24V Rolls Charging Parameters?
To: RE-wrenches 


 Wayne, 

** **

Sorry about the delay!… I’ve been in wonderful sunny Nigeria dodging
kidnappers and car bombs… 

** **

** **

All Rolls batteries require a bit hotter voltage when charging and
especially when you are using multiple parallel strings. 

** **

With that system I would suggest if you are using the Outback Temp
Compensation.

** **

Inverter: 

Bulk/Absorb 29.2 (2.45vpc)

Absorb Time 15 Hours.  (I’ll explain why below)

Float 26.4 (2.2vpc)

EQ 31.8 (2.65vpc)

** **

Charge Controllers: 

Bulk/Absorb 29.4-29.6. 

   Normally I set the controller a bit higher than the inverter
just so my charge controller don’t back off if my inverter is also charging
the battery.

Absorb Time 4.5 Hours (Time=.42 * 3280 (C20 Rate) / 320amps (max current of
charge controllers) =4.13… Rounded up to 4.5 Hours.   This can be adjusted
depending on monthly SG measurements and or water use. 

Float 26.4

EQ 31.8

** **

Flexnet DC

** **

End Amps 2% of Battery bank Cap.  65 amps. 

Charge Voltage 29.0

Met Time 1-3 min. 

** **

Battery Charge Factor 90%

   This means if you take out 100 amps it’s going to put back
110% before it determine the batts are full. 

** **

The reason for the longer Absorb time is the Flexnet DC determines full
charge by three parameters. 

** **

**1.  **Absorb Time Completion

**2.  **End Amps/Charged Voltage

**3.  **Battery Charge Factor. 

** **

IF ANY ONE OF THESE (OR Statement in the Logic) PARAMETERS ARE MET, AND THE
FNDC SEE’S A 60 SECOND DISCHARGE IT WILL RESET THE SOC METER TO
98,99,100%.   It’s better to set the Absorb timer longer and force it to
use the End Amps or BCF%..

** **

The absolute worst way to charge a battery is by running a timer, all the
inverter manufactures do it because it’s a cheap (but somewhat effective)
method of charging a battery that works as long as you set the absorb timer
correctly.  Plus a sulfated battery will rise in voltage too early
potentially causing issues with charging. 

** **

The best way is measuring the amount of current and shut off the charger
when you hit about 2% (New battery) of the battery bank capacity. 

** **

Many people make two mistakes when setting up the flexnet dc…  

**1.  **Leaving the absorb timer set at default… this will cause the
flexnet dc to think the batts are full and will reset the soc to 100%
early. 

**2.  **Not forcing a manual full charge prior to connecting the
Flexnet DC… The Flexnet DC when first powered up will assume a full 100%
state on the batteries.  Many battery guys know that when they first
install them they are usually only at 60-80% SOC.   This will cause
incorrect measurements of SOC from day one. 

** **

Hope this helps. 

** **

** **

** **

** **

*Steve Higgins
Technical Services Manager
***M: +1.206.790.5840
F: +1.902.597.8447
*Surrette Battery Company
*Exclusive manufacturer of
 <http://www.rollsbattery.com>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Stainless Steel Cable Ties

[Kirpal Khalsa]

My vote is for the Heyco Sunbundler vinyl coated stainess tiesthey are
string, do not have sharp edges and long enough to go around any brand of
racking.They are a bit on the expensive side.but with a life
expectancy as long as the rest o f the systemwe have been using them
for over a year and love them.I think we pay approx. $.60 each when we
buy them in quantities of 300 at a time
Sometimes we use plastic zip ties to get our bundling in order and then
follow up with the sun bundler cable ties and this seems to keep our
installation of the sun bundlers to an efficient minimum.
good luck

Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Thu, Apr 25, 2013 at 9:43 AM, William  wrote:

> Friends:
>
> The US Navy did a study. Found plastic deficient in many ways.
>
> William
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Re: [RE-wrenches] CIS mods

[Kirpal Khalsa]

I don't understand the text as stated.I am not sure if they are simply
referring to a common effect in most thin film panels where for the first
few months they can output more than ratings, and then they settle down to
what they are rated for, or if they are saying that after a few months the
output will increase, once they are "light soaked"?
-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com

On Mon, Feb 18, 2013 at 4:13 PM, Marco Mangelsdorf wrote:

> Yes, I saw that.  Sounds like smoke and mirrors to me.
>
> marco
>
> On Mon, Feb 18, 2013 at 1:38 PM, Carl Emerson wrote:
>
>>  *Marco.*
>>
>> * *
>>
>> *Did you notice the claim in the text as follows…*
>>
>> * *
>>
>> *The "Light Soaking" Effect*
>> Following an initial period of exposure to sunlight, the CIS light
>> soaking effect will result in higher output than factory spec. This has
>> been proven by field data from around the world
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> If correct this answers your question…
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Time will tell I guess.
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Regards
>> Carl Emerson
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Aloha,
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Solar Frontier in Japan, the maker of copper-indium-selenium (CIS) mods,
>> claims that their product produces more kWhs per kW installed than
>> crystalline silicon.
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> http://www.solar-frontier.com/eng/cis/index.html  If you go to the
>> Softbank Field Results on the right tabs area you can download a 4-page PDF
>> report.
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> I’m wondering if this is a hot-out-of-the-box phenomenon similar to some
>> other non-cSi products and that after X months in the field the output
>> stabilizes at a lower level.
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Anyone have any idea or experience with this?
>>
>> ** **
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> marco
>>
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[RE-wrenches] Mitsubishi MF170 EB3 replacements

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi Wrenches..
We have a customer who has two broken Mitsubishi MF170EB3
modules.Anyone know where to source a couple of replacements?  Please
contact me off line if so...
Thanks!

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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[RE-wrenches] Alarm start stop alarm

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hey Folks.I was hoping someone might be able to help with a
recommendation for a sound alarm for when a generator starts and stops in
an outback controlled auto gen start systemcustomers generator is in a
remote building and they cant always hear when it starts or stops.
Thank you!
Kirpal Khalsa
Renewable Energy Systems
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian design limitation - am I missing something?

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Allan...indeed this is a limitationand yes i agree with you that a
higher voltage charge controller would be a welcome update to Outbacks line
up.Looking at the DPW top of pole list, i would suggest to you a design
using 15 255 watt modules with the FM80 charge controller which would both
meet your total wattage requirements, would still only  need one charge
controller, as well as conform to the 3 module multiplication
requirementadditionally it would require less foundation/excavation
work, but would in fact be a honker of an arrayjust an idea! Locally in
your area I know Focused Energy has a good price and availability of the US
made SolarWorld 255's which we use often...
Good luck.
Kirpal

On Sun, Dec 16, 2012 at 10:41 AM, Allan Sindelar <
al...@positiveenergysolar.com> wrote:

>  Wrenches,
> Please tell me if I'm overlooking something, in what appears to be a
> design weakness:
>
> I would like to use an Outback Radian system for a standard GTBB system.
> In order to take full advantage of the system's capabilities, I have to use
> all of Outback's main components; in this case the FM60 or FM80 charge
> controller. The problem is that the most common (and lower-cost) modules
> today are 60-cell, meaning 20 Vnominal. Given the 150V DC hard maximum
> voltage limit of the FM-series charge controller, in our cold climate I can
> only use these 20V modules in 60 Vnominal series strings; that is, in
> multiples of three modules. As the Radian is (wisely) offered in 48V only,
> pairs of modules would provide too low a voltage, and series strings of
> four modules would exceed 150 Voc in cold weather.
>
> The base Midnite Classic 150 will safely operate to 198 VDC in this
> application, but it won't communicate with the Mate3.
>
> Is this a fundamental design limitation in the Radian system, suggesting
> that Outback is due for a controller upgrade, or am I missing something
> obvious? It appears that arrays and racks have to be sized in ~720-watt
> sets of three-module series strings, which can be problematic in some
> designs. In the design in question I would like to use 16 240W modules on
> two 8-module pole-top racks (for seasonal adjustability); nothing in sets
> of three meets the customer's output and aesthetic needs.
>
> Any solutions would be welcome.
> Thank you,
> Allan
> --
> *Allan Sindelar*
> *al...@positiveenergysolar.com* 
> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder and Chief Technology Officer
> *Positive Energy, Inc.*
> 3209 Richards Lane (note new address)
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112*
> *www.positiveenergysolar.com* 
>
> *
> *
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Pilot Hole Template

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Mac..Do you have a brand and model of IR Camera that you are happy
with.This seems like a *very* useful tool if it will show you the
layout of the rafters below, from aboveI will have to have a talk with
Santa!
Thanks.

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
Renewable Energy Systems

On Thu, Dec 13, 2012 at 10:12 AM, Mac Lewis  wrote:

> Your bullet-proof rafter finder is an IR camera.  It seems to always work,
> its just very expensive.  Try it out if you get a chance.
>
>
> On Thu, Dec 13, 2012 at 11:03 AM, Solar Energy Solutions <
> solarenergysoluti...@yahoo.com> wrote:
>
>> What the industry needs and I would do anything to find is some kind of a
>> bullet proof rooftop rafter finder.  Imagine the time saved and pilot
>> holes gone the way of the Doe Doe.
>>
>> Santa?
>> **
>> *Andrew Koyaanisqatsi*
>> President
>> *Solar Energy Solutions, Inc.*
>> Since 1987,
>> Moving Portland and Beyond
>> to an Environmentally Sustainable Future.
>>  *503-238-4502*
>> *http://www.solarenergyoregon.com/ *
>> **
>> *"Better one's House too little one day*
>> *than too big all the Year after."*
>>
>>
>>*From:* Mark Dickson 
>> *To:* 'RE-wrenches' 
>> *Sent:* Thursday, December 13, 2012 8:37 AM
>>
>> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Pilot Hole Template
>>
>>   Sounds like you already have the equipment.  But perhaps next time
>> consider DPW’s Easy Feet.  They are made to tech-screw right into the
>> decking without having to hit the truss.  Come pre-made with EPDM.  Just
>> snap a line, set and screw.  Obviously you will need to do some math to
>> make sure your decking material is substantial as well as anchored well to
>> the blue board.  I have not used them yet, but will be putting up 20kW next
>> month and will report back.  That being said, anybody else have experience
>> to report with them?
>>
>>  Best regards,
>>
>> Mark Dickson,
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer ™
>> Oasis Montana Inc.
>>
>>   *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
>> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Jesse Dahl
>> *Sent:* Wednesday, December 12, 2012 1:33 PM
>> *To:* RE-wrenches
>> *Subject:* Re: [ RE-wrenches ] Pilot Hole Template
>>
>>  Thanks Chris,
>>
>>  I did the same as far as verifying layout of the beams, they are all
>> the same center to center, so that helps when snapping lines on the roof,
>> we've been using the quickmount jig for a few hours and haven't missed
>> yet, so I think we got it.
>>
>>  Thanks all!
>>
>>  Jesse
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
>>
>> On Dec 12, 2012, at 1:38 PM, "Chris"  wrote:
>>
>>  Hi Jesse,
>> We just finished a similar roof mount project but had the good fortune to
>> be going into 6x14 beams at “ 48” o.c. “. I put the on center dimension in
>> quotes loosely, and spent a couple hours prior to drilling the first hole
>> checking layout of the beams, directly under where we’d be drilling. The
>> ceiling rafters varied in layout an inch to 8” so this paid off!!!
>> We used a 12” x 3/16” pilot bit, for our 8” Simpson SDS galv lags. I
>> eyeballed the angle into the beam, approx 10°, as we had 4 bolts in each
>> 1.5” pipe flange base to land into the beams. The trick is having the 8”
>> lag bolt follow the hole into the 2x6 pine decking and beam. This wasn’t
>> as hard to do as we first thought it would be, and didn’t miss a one.
>> Hitting a 3x10 is going to be trickier, and your jig should help
>> immensely.
>>
>>  Sincerely,
>>
>> Chris Worcester
>> Solar Wind Works
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installer
>> Phone: 530-582-4503
>> Fax: 530-582-4603
>> http://www.solarwindworks.com/
>> ch...@solarwindworks.com
>> "Proven Energy Solutions"
>>
>>  *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [
>> mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org]
>> *On Behalf Of *Jesse Dahl
>> *Sent:* Wednesday, December 12, 2012 7:54 AM
>> *To:* RE-wrenches
>> *Subject:* Re: [ RE-wrenches ] Pilot Hole Template
>>
>>  Since this job was a spec job and the materials are already here, I
>> need to use the quick mount, so.  I took a quick mount, inserted a 1/2" EMT
>> coupling (after some filing) and stuck a 8" piece of 1/2" EMT in the
>> coupling Nd tightened it down. Checked it with my square to ensure it is
>> coming out of the flashing square to the world.  I haven't drilled a hole
>> 

Re: [RE-wrenches] weak voltage

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Mick.we had this happen once too.Luckily it had already become
standard procedure for us to check and notate voltage of each battery prior
to connecting battery cableswe had installed 11 of the 12 batteries and
the 12th battery turned out to have reversed polarity..While we didn't
send it back we made clear markings on the battery case and wired it
appropriately.Whew!
lesson of the day: always check each battery for voltage and polarity at or
before installation..
OK, now time to go replace a customers battery bank, Note to self:- check
battery polarity!
Be safe, cheers!




-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com


On Mon, Oct 15, 2012 at 6:24 AM, Mick Abraham  wrote:

> Hello, Wrenchies~
>
> Mac Lewis wrote about battery strangeness on the Sunny Island system for
> his clients. Here is a theory to consider, Mac.
>
> I once bought a 48v string of >famous brand< two volt cells in which one
> cell had been loaded backwards into its case. When hooked up according to
> the +/- markings on the case, this cell was discharging at the same time
> the rest of the string was charging so even though the others were running
> high during the charge, the end to end voltage immediately slumped to
> relatively low values after the charge was ended. The one cell was
> effectively missing in action.
>
> My client was a DIY type who was distant from my location but he owned a
> voltmeter that was still in the box. I coached him through a "voltage walk"
> up the string and sure enough we found the one increment that was
> subtracting from overall string voltage instead of adding to it. The
> >famous< battery supplier said this was impossible, they are checked three
> times, this never happens & can't happen, blah blah...and they were only
> convinced when the cell was back in their shop and they could measure this
> for themselves.
>
> Even after they checked it, they said, "It's the first time in our 20 +
> years with that brand that we have ever seen this." Black swan.
>
> At my request, the company paid to ship back the entire string and ship
> all new replacement cells to the client. This seemed important because the
> other 23 cells had been subjected to a high voltage per cell and had gotten
> a bit hot before the problem was discovered.
>
> 
>
> Perhaps this theory is worth checking on site. Whatever you find to
> resolve this problem, Mac, be sure to report back on list so we can all
> learn.
>
> Jolliness,
>
> Mick Abraham, Proprietor
> www.abrahamsolar.com
>
> Voice: 970-731-4675
>
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[RE-wrenches] green tag meters

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hey All!
We are doing a grid tied battery back up project and need to install green
tag meters.per the outback power drawing on the technical resources
section of their web siteit calls for Form 12S  meters..which
include 5th jaw kits for the neutral.  They recommend getting them from
Austin International (now Vision Metering) or Haileah Meters.Both of
them no longer seem to carry the 60A or 100A versions and the 200A versions
are almost 4 times the price.
Anyone have any recommendations for sourcing some of these, reconditioned
would even be finethey can be simple cyclometers, or digital
Typically we have used Form 2S meter bases commonly available and added the
5th jaw kit.Our past suppliers, AEE is no longer carrying the 100A or
60A versions
Thanks for any suggestions or contacts
Happy Weekend!
Cheers,

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Ilsco SGB bonding lug

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Benn...it looks like that lug has "stainless hardware for corrosion
resistance"  as stated on the brochureThat would be the biggest
consideration as David Brearly mentioned earlier in regards to rust
potential.  Stainless hardware and tin plating is equivalent to the WEEB
lugsTin plating and stainless hardware is as good as anything else
available as far as outdoor ratings are concerned.
I see your point that it is not explicitly stated for outdoor
usehowever being marketed for use with solar panels also seems to imply
rather obviously that it is outdoor rated.in my unofficial opinion.

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer



On Mon, Aug 27, 2012 at 4:11 PM, benn kilburn  wrote:

> Thanks for the feedback Wrenches, lots of interesting comments,
>
> However I'm still wondering…..
> How does one confirm that it is specifically approved for outdoor use?
> Other than assuming it is implied (because it is 'marketed' as a solar
> lug).  As far as I can tell UL 467 does not imply "outdoor rated" as the
> aluminum lug "GBL-4" is also UL467 listed.  See here…GBL LAY-IN 
> AL/CU<http://ilsco.com//ProductsDetail.aspx?kfjkff=cjiDRFP14PUgtVid3pn1cQ%3d%3d&fjjfhjhj=nY1wgyVO%2fE%2bFsQNfsmn%2f4OZ3BP5vHo5NcMahtvvHLIc%3d>.
>
>
> As well, and as Gary pointed out with his second link, for a module
> bonding/grounding method to be acceptable, it must be recognized by the
> module manufacturer, no?
> Which means that any new bonding product on the market must have the
> blessing  of each mod mfgr.
> (by way of letter or mention in its install manual).  I have come across
> inspectors that actually look for this.
>
> Jason,
> you wrote "I like the looks of that lug. However, I've been using WEEBs
> too long to go back now." I agree, and i'm not looking to replace weebs
> with these, but these certainly seem to have a place in the What do you use
> for the bonding connection from the ?rails?
> This SGB lug was suggested for this purpose as well.
>
>
> Benn
> DayStar Renewable Energy Inc.
> www.daystarsolar.ca  *  Ph: 780-906-7807
> Construction Electrician Solar Photovoltaic Systems Certified
> Certificate # 0007S
> HAVE A SUNNY DAY
>
> On 27/08/12 2:35 PM, "Gary Willett"  wrote:
>
>  Here's the Ilsco listing from UL, where it's classed as "Grounding and
> Bonding Equipment":
>
> http://database.ul.com/cgi-bin/XYV/template/LISEXT/1FRAME/showpage.html?name=KDER.E34440&ccnshorttitle=Grounding+and+Bonding+Equipment&objid=1074099002&cfgid=1073741824&version=versionless&parent_id=1073988940&sequence=1
>
> The GuideInfo for Grounding & Bonding Equipment lists:
>
> *Grounding and Bonding for Photovoltaic (PV) Systems *— Grounding and
> bonding equipment intended for use in PV systems are additionally
> investigated in combination with the PV module/panel (see QIGU) to the
> applicable requirements for such products. Installation instructions
> provided with the PV system (see QIGU) identify the specific grounding and
> bonding device that has been investigated and intended for use with that
> system.
>
>
> http://database.ul.com/cgi-bin/XYV/template/LISEXT/1FRAME/showpage.html?&name=KDER.GuideInfo&ccnshorttitle=Grounding+and+Bonding+Equipment&objid=1074098839&cfgid=1073741824&version=versionless&parent_id=1073988940&sequence=1
>
>
>   Regards,
>
> Gary Willett, PE
>  On 8/27/2012 3:20 PM, David Brearley wrote:
>
> Yes, sorry. I wasn't speaking of this lug...I like the redesign. Looks
> quicker and easier and robust.
>
>  On Aug 27, 2012, at 3:17 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote:
>
> Yeah, but this one is marketed as a solar bonding lug. I think it's safe
> to say that it appropriately rated for outdoor use. It's always good to
> double-check, of course.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Fafco Solar
>
>
>
> On Mon, Aug 27, 2012 at 4:11 PM, David Brearley <
> david.brear...@solarprofessional.com> wrote:
>
>> Some of the aluminum lugs are indoor-rated. They have a set screw will
>> rust in an outdoor environment. That's one of the classic John Wiles
>> slides. I'd just watch out for that
>>
>>
>> On Aug 27, 2012, at 12:53 PM, Brian Mehalic 
>> wrote:
>>
>>  I believe the UL467 listing means that it is rated for direct
>> burial/outdoor use.
>>
>>  Brian Mehalic
>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™ R031508-59
>> IREC ISPQ Certified Affiliated Instructor/PV US-0132
>>
>>  PV Curriculum Developer and Instructor
>> Solar Energy International
>> http://www.solarenergy.org
>>

Re: [RE-wrenches] trace DR repair

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Todd.Dean Abney...Abney Electrix.is the company

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o

On Sat, Jul 28, 2012 at 12:22 PM, Todd Cory wrote:

> **
> i remember a thread awhile back about a good company in southern oregon
> who repaired trace dr/sw inverters.
>
> can someone refresh my aging memory please?
>
> thanks,
>
> todd cory
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Multiple angle conundrum

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hiltonthere are a couple ways to approach this.There are some
string inverters with multiple MPPT inputseach different slope of roof
would be installed into its own input.the other way is to use micro
inverters or other individual module optimizersin which case you are
completely free from mismatched orientation and slope constraints.
If you are looking to use a single MPPT channel string inverter you may
consider splitting the arrays and having two single string inverters one
for each tilt angleThat said the tilt angle difference feeding the same
inverter does not have as big of a negative impact as if the sub arrays are
facing different directions
good luck,
Kirpal Khalsa

On Wed, Apr 4, 2012 at 9:14 AM, Hilton Dier III wrote:

>  Wrenches,
>
> I am talking with a potential client about a roof mounted PV array. The
> client has a reasonably large south facing roof, but it is broken up by a
> large (18' W x 16' H) shed dormer. The roof is 10:12 and the dormer is 6:12.
> I designed a layout that gave the dormer some room to avoid shading. The
> client was disappointed by how much wattage I could get on his roof. I
> pointed out that installing modules in the shade of the dormer was a bad
> idea.
>
> He is also talking to another installer. The other installer proposed
> installing part of the array on the 10:12 roof and part on the 6:12 dormer.
> The client had already asked me about that and I gave him a rudimentary
> explanation of maximum power point tracking and the inefficiency of such an
> arrangement. He asked them about that and their guy said "No big deal." He
> is still considering the two-angle scenario.
>
> So, how much efficiency will he lose by going with two angles? It seems
> like the ultimate MPPT design error to me, but I don't have a number for
> him to make my case. I suppose it all comes down to cents per delivered kWh
> in the end, but two different roof angles seems the the wrong way to go.
> I'd like to be able to give him a definitive idea of what he would be
> sacrificing with that scenario.
>
> Side note: The other installer is using the new Sunpower E20 modules. They
> seem to be available only from the manufacturer. Anybody have a source? Has
> anybody used them yet? Do they live up to the hype?
>
> Many thanks,
>
> Hilton
>
> --
> Hilton Dier III
> Renewable Energy Design
> Partner, Solar Gain LLC
> 453 East Hill Rd.
> Middlesex, VT 05602
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Charge Rate (Hot Trojan Batteries)

[Kirpal Khalsa]

5 strings says it all!  now would be a good opportunity to replace with
higher capacity cells and fewer strings for long lasting
performance..Kirpal
On Apr 3, 2012 7:21 AM, "All Solar, Inc."  wrote:

> **
> With 5 strings installed, I figured the charge rate to be about 3.3% (of
> C20 rate) for 5 years or so. Actually since it was installed in 2002, and
> now on its second set of batteries.
> We added some PV and an MX60 a year ago, and now this.  I think he
> had heavily sulfated batteries which eventually led to shorted cells. ?
> Jeremy
>
> - Original Message -
> *From:* Jason Szumlanski 
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Sent:* Monday, April 02, 2012 1:43 PM
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Hot Trojan Batteries
>
>  There are a lot of forums and circles where C/20 refers to the capacity
> divided by 20, or 5% of the battery capacity. This may be the more informal
> interpretation of the term, but you will find many examples where people
> consider C/20 to be 5% of the capacity (wrong or right). For example, look
> at the most frequently accessed deep cycle charging FAQ on the Internet:
> http://www.windsun.com/Batteries/Battery_FAQ.htm
>
>
>
> To be clear perhaps we should just use plain English and say “the
> recommended charging rate is 10-15% of the capacity of the battery at the
> 20 hour discharge rate.”
>
>
>
> Jason Szumlanski
>
> Fafco Solar
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Allan Sindelar
> *Sent:* Monday, April 02, 2012 1:46 PM
> *To:* re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Hot Trojan Batteries
>
>
>
> Wrenches,
> I attended John DeBoever's Friday afternoon presentation on battery
> technology and care at the NABCEP Continuing Education conference this past
> weekend. It quickly became clear to me that John seriously knows his
> batteries, at all levels: chemistry, physics, RE use and care, etc. It was
> an advanced-level presentation, and I learned a lot.
>
> The first thing John told us was that English is not his native language;
> he's a Belgian raised in South Africa (and more that I didn't catch). He
> was bursting with knowledge and good information, but occasionally we in
> his class would back him up to better explain a point.
>
> In short, I think he will be a real asset to the Wrenches list as a
> manufacturer's representative. And occasionally there will be something
> confusing, such as what just happened here. I too wondered about C20 versus
> C/20. I appreciate that he quickly cleared up the confusion, and look
> forward to learning quite a bit from his posts about battery issues.
> Allan
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@positiveenergysolar.com
> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> *Positive Energy, Inc.*
> 3201 Calle Marie
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112*
> www.positiveenergysolar.com
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On 4/2/2012 11:00 AM, John DeBoever wrote:
>
> Jason, Wrenches,
>
>
>
> C/20 means C over 20 hours discharge rate = capacity @ the 20 hours
> discharge rate. C/20 often is mentioned as C20, so the confusion here.
>
> Max recommended is 10& to 15% of C20 of the battery bank.
>
>
>
> John
>
> Trojan Battery Company
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [
> mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org]
> *On Behalf Of *Jason Szumlanski
> *Sent:* Monday, April 02, 2012 12:53 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Hot Trojan Batteries
>
>
>
> There must be some confusion here about the charging rate. C/20 refers to
> capacity divided by 20, so in the case of a 325aH battery (capacity @ the
> 20 hour discharge rate) we’re talking about charging at a 16.25 amp rate.
> I’m sure John is not referring to a maximum rate of 10-15% of 16.25 amps,
> but 10-15% of the 325aH capacity.
>
>
>
> Jason Szumlanski
>
> Fafco Solar
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *John DeBoever
> *Sent:* Monday, April 02, 2012 12:14 PM
> *To:* allso...@scswifi.net; RE-wrenches
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Hot Trojan Batteries
>
>
>
> Jeremy, Wrenches,
>
>
>
> 165°F is definitely too high and you should stop immediately any charge to
> avoid further major problems. I recommend you contact our Trojan Tech
> Support for help at
> http://www.trojanbatteryre.com/Tech_Support/Tech_Support.html?tab=0#TabbedPanels1#top
>
>
>
> Below are few perspectives to help the diagnostic:
>
>
>
> o   System issues:
>
> ü  Check Charger setting: the C/20 rate mentioned is definitely too high
> and will damage the battery. The maximum recommended current rate is 10-15%
> of C/20 for a deep-cycle flooded lead acid battery. Other C/rates are
> possible but are application specific and not typical.
>
> ü  Check Voltage settings: these are provided on Trojan datasheets, see
> here: http:

[RE-wrenches] No underside access metal building attachment

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Lars,
We looked into this and found some "threaded pop rivets" they were
stainless steel and you had to buy the tool and then you just drill from
the top, insert the pop rivet that leaves a threaded shaft facing skyward
that you could attach L feet or other attachments to with a nut and
washerthey guaranteed a waterproof connection and i imagine that you
could always add some Eternabond double sided butyl tape to the bottoms of
your L feet to double ensure the waterproof seal.  They supplied
engineering pullout documentation...you will need to provide them with the
thickness of the purlins, the thickness of the metal roofing, and the
thickness of the insulation if present for them to spec the right size
rivet.

The company we found that had what seemed like it would work well was
Bollhoff - a German company.  They have US distribution so you can source
the tool and materials domestically
Good luck

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Thu, Mar 15, 2012 at 9:40 AM, Allan Sindelar <
al...@positiveenergysolar.com> wrote:

> **
> Lars,
> This has been addressed before on this list, but its been awhile. #14
> self-tapping ("Tek") screws have phenomenal pull-out strength in standard
> steel purlins. My advice is to research this through your fastener
> supplier; I have seen charts on pull-out strength of various sizes and
> materials. I think you'll find that you can come up with a screw attachment
> schedule with which you'll be satisfied.
> Allan
>
>  *Allan Sindelar*
> *al...@positiveenergysolar.com* 
> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> *Positive Energy, Inc.*
> 3201 Calle Marie
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112*
> *www.positiveenergysolar.com* <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/>
>
> *
> *
>
>
> On 3/15/2012 10:26 AM, lars Ortegren wrote:
>
>  Wrenches,
>
> We have a project coming up where we are installing a large array on a low
> slope metal building with metal purlins. Typically we would through bolt
> our attachment to the purlins, but in this case the building is a
> self-storage, and access is not an option. Does anyone out there have
> experience with any top side only metal-metal attachments? I’ve thought
> about using some larger sized stainless self-tapping screws, but I worry
> about the pull out strength (as the roof combined with the c-channel
> purlins are only about 1/8”) and the effects of heat and cooling of the
> roof backing the screws out over time. Any thoughts ?
>
> ** **
>
> *Lars Ortegren*
>
> ** **
>
> Director of Operations
>
> California Solar Electric Company
>
> 10141 Evening Star Drive, Suite 6
>
> Grass Valley, CA 95945
>
> http://www.californiasolarco.com/
>
> ** **
>
> Phone : (530)274-3671
>
> Fax: (530)274-7518
>
> ** **
>
> *California C-10 Electical Contractor #779624*
>
> *NABCEP Certified PV Installer # 091110-89*
>
> *Certified NABCEP Continuing Education Provider*
>
> More about NABCEP:
>
> ** **
>
> http://www.nabcep.org/
>
> ** **
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Diversion load for AC coupled system

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hey Larryyou might try getting ahold of Jerry Ostermeyer over at
Alternative Power and Machine in Grants Pass ORtheir website is:
www.apmhydro.com
They make diversion loads for their hydro units that can easily handle the
3800 watts of solar you want to divert.
Good luck.
-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o

On Tue, Nov 29, 2011 at 5:35 PM, Larry Crutcher, Starlight Solar Power
Systems  wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> I would like some advice on diversion load control of 3800 watts of PV
> solar. The battery bank is 48 volts and the battery inverter is the
> MS4448PAE. This will AC couple with a grid tied inverter during an outage.
> Magnum Energy recommends the addition of a dump load for safe battery
> voltage control.  The customer may leave the home unattended for weeks so I
> am looking for reliability here. Quality, as well.
>
> A pair of Tristar 60's should be suitable for the 3.8kW output but I
> haven't been able to find a load that is sized for this job. I welcome any
> advice on this subject.  Thanks in advance.
>
> Larry Crutcher
> Starlight Solar Power Systems
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Strange voltage readings, power quality

[Kirpal Khalsa]

I had this also happen recently with a battery bank.we found that the
cables had some bad connections due to a poor connectionwe had used
QuickCote on the cable lugs and the battery lugs prior to installing the
cables.  We disconnected all cables and wire brushed them, reassembled and
then installed a different corrosion preventer after the lugs were attached
to the battery terminals.this way it was clean terminal joined to clean
battery cable lugs throughout.
It has been a couple months and problem seems to have disappeared
especially after a couple aggressive corrective equalization charges.
There was no visible corrosion on the battery cables or terminals.the
customer did not do a stellar job of regular equalization or water topping
off as we arrived and the plastic grids above the plates were just covered
up.we re advised them on the cost savings achievable by regular care
and maintenance of the battery bank
Cheers,
-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com



On Sun, Nov 13, 2011 at 1:12 PM, Nathan Jones  wrote:

> Mac,
> I have encountered two battery based inverters that were affected by the
> feedback frequency of CF bulbs. One would trip and show overload from a
> single 15 watt bulb with no other loads connected every time. The other one
> was an intermittant situation. Had I not encountered this problem before I
> might still be trying to figure that one out. I think it would be worth
> ruling out as a possibility at this point.
> Nathan Jones
> Power Source Solar
> 417-827-0738
> On Sun, Nov 13, 2011 10:55 AM CST mac Lewis wrote:
>
> >Hello wrenches,
> >
> >I am having an interesting grid-tied issue and would love to get some
> input.
> >
> >The installation is 3 Fronius IG Plus inverters all single phase, two 7.5s
> >and one 10.0.  The service is 120/208.  We have the two 7.5s feeding a
> >dedicated 3 phase sub and tied back into the main panel after production
> >meter.  The first 7.5 is tied across Va to Vb, the second is tied in
> across
> >Vb to Vc.   The 10.0 feeds directly back to the main panel after
> production
> >meter and is tied in across Va to Vb.
> >It should be noted that this facility has very large capacitive load,
> about
> >25 kW of grow lights.  According to an egauge on site, the power factor
> >ranges from 0.5 to 0.75 on all phases.
> >The system worked flawlessly for 3 months, suddenly the two 7.5s dropped
> >out and gave a myriad of grid errors, everything from islanding errors, to
> >high grid voltage, and low grid voltage etc.
> >
> >I went over there and found the phase B voltage to neutral, was way out of
> >wack, anywhere from 120-170.  Oddly, the Line to line voltage was fine,
> >right around 208 for all phases.  I called the power company and had them
> >install a monitor at the transformer.  After 5 days they came back and
> said
> >that their end was within spec.  I decided to put both of the 7.5s between
> >Va to Vc.  They would not boot up.  I then went to the main panel and
> >changed the physical location of the breaker for the subpanels of the
> 7.5s.
> > This seemed to make the difference.  They booted up and are exporting
> >power.  I tried switching one of the 7.5s back Va to Vb, but it still
> would
> >not boot up unless it is connected from Va to Vc.
> >
> >My working theory right now is that we are getting harmonics traveling
> back
> >to the inverters from the ballasts on the grow light across line B.  As
> far
> >as explaining why it suddenly happening, my guess is that he has started
> >turning off inductive loads such as fan motors and compressors as we are
> >entering the winter.  There may have been a filtering effect going on with
> >the motors absorbing some of these harmonics and attenuating them.  I am
> >going to try to verify this with an oscilloscope this week.
> >
> >Does anyone have any other theories to explain this type of behavior?
> > Anyone seen this before?  Should I look for anything else?
> >
> >Thanks
> >
> >Mac Lewis
> >
> >
> >--
> >
> >
> >
> >Mac Lewis
> >
> >*
> >
> >"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates
> >*
>
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[RE-wrenches] evergreen modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi All.looking for 2 Evergreen ES 195's and 1 ES 190 module.
Please contact me off list if you have any you would like to part with 
Ideally you will be close to S. Oregon...
Thanks!

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sharp modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

DrakeAs far as i know the power tolerance rating has gotten a bit better
than they used to be.I believe the floating glass inside the frame is a
long standing design but I just haven't seen any other manu's doing that so
it seems odd when carrying the module and the glass moves independent of the
frame
I like the idea of a rubber mallet to "knock the frame into shape".but I
dislike the idea of having to do this in the first place! Haven't had to do
it for other manu's modules
We have started to use the Sharp modules recently due to their reliable
supply, lowest cost for  US manufacturing, coupled with the idea that their
company is relatively stable as far a supporting their warranties for the
long haul.
Anyone have any other US modules they find to be of good quality, reliable
supply, low cost and strong company foundation that values their installers?
Cheers,


-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o


On Sun, Sep 11, 2011 at 4:09 PM, Drake  wrote:

>  What do you think of the quality of the new Sharp modules?  The 240 F2 has
> a good PTC rating, but a power tolerance range of 15% (+10% -5%).  With the
> frame and construction issues, I wonder if the quality of Sharp modules is
> slipping.
>
> Has Sharp cut quality to keep competitive?
>
> Drake
>
>
>
>
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[RE-wrenches] Sharp modules

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Happy Friday.so i was installing some sharp 240w modules today and
noticed again that the modules do not have any sealant between the glass and
the aluminum frame.I have noticed this on the 216's and the 80's as
well.the glass and cells all seem to float independent of the
frame..all other modules we have used have a sealant sometimes too much
in the groove surrounding the glass inside of the frame.
As we were installing the modules we noticed significant 1/4"+ of variance
in frame dimensions from one end of module to other, with mid clamps holding
the modules on one side you could pull the frame and it would move
independently of the glass..
Does this manufacturing method have some advantages that i am not aware of?
It just seemed odd that the glass and silicone cells and backing encapsulant
can all move around without being held firmly in place..we are new to
using the sharp modules and was interested to see if anyone else had any
insight into this design
Cheers.

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] roof types

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Marcomy favorite is a standing seam metal roof.good for solar, good
for water collectionno ashpalt in the water..I know there are
versions which have a non reactive paint surface.
Cheers,

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o

On Mon, Aug 29, 2011 at 9:25 PM, Marco Mangelsdorf wrote:

>  A bit off of the solar subject.
>
> ** **
>
> Any recommendations for a new roof that would be an acceptable means for
> collecting drinking water?
>
> ** **
>
> Thanks,
>
> marco
>
> ** **
>
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[RE-wrenches] NEMA 4 Load Centers

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Happy Monday Morningany of you all heard of a NEMA 4 or 4x load center
that can be mounted on a slope like the midnite solar or outback power
rooftop combiners.?  AC Single phase, 6 space, 60-100A, with a main
breaker?
Proving difficult to locate
100 thanks!!!

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Working on metal roofs.

[Kirpal Khalsa]

While most of these safety methods are crucial, another trick to use
inconjunction is to spray the roof with some type if sodalike coke or pepsi
so when it dries the surface becomes tacky and stickyreally helps with
mobility especially while manoeuvring aroundl
Another good help is the harnesses which haveloops in front instead of just
in back...Petzl makes some nice ones but they are expensive...
Good luck
Kirpal
On May 8, 2011 10:04 AM, "Darryl Thayer"  wrote:
> Jesse Williams approach is excellent , except for disassembly after the
job is
> finished on a 12/12 pitch.  You will not be able to walk the roof or the
roof
> ridge.  if you fall will have no way to slow this the free fall of
the eve.
>
>
> Also depending upon the roof some metal roofs you can not stand without
> buckeling the roof.  (some comerical or barn type roofs are mearly
supported by
> the perlongs
>
> DT
>
>
>
>
> 
> From: Jesse Dahl 
> To: RE-wrenches 
> Sent: Mon, May 9, 2011 1:21:12 AM
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Working on metal roofs.
>
>
> Thanks DT!
>
>
>
> I'm thinking chicken ladder for that upper roof work.  Have you used
ladder
> hooks?
>
>
> Jesse
> Sent from my iPad!!!
>
> On May 8, 2011, at 12:41 AM, Darryl Thayer  wrote:
>
>
> working on metal roofs is difficult because you have no friction, working
on a
> 12/12 is a close to impossible as it can get.  I like to use scaffold and
of
> course safety rail such that you are safe at the scaffold level.  Scaffold
needs
> to be tied off or braced to prevent toppling when ou place a ladder on to
it.
> Even if you use a chicken ladder have a work platform underneath.  the
work
> using harness if so difficult you use all your strength just staying
there.
> There are scaffold systems that are designed for latteral force check with
your
> supplier.  I find that working off a JLG is difficult also.
>
>>
>>BTW there are at least three types of standing seam, most types can be
handled
>>using Snap-NRack hardware, but get the standing seam profile first.
>>
>>
>>Remember you are to use every seam, to place clamps and use rails to tie
the
>>clamps to the modules.  I find that this is easier than the rail-less
system.
>>
>>
>>A ladder is not to be streched at 45 degrees.  ground to roof.  When tie
off is
>>used for fall protection remember swing fall and rescure plan.
>>
>>
>>Darryl
>>
>>
>>
>>
> 
> From: Jesse Dahl 
>>To: "RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org" 
>>Sent: Sat, May 7, 2011 7:21:43 PM
>>Subject: [RE-wrenches] Working on metal roofs.
>>
>>Wrenches,
>>
>>I will be installing multiple arrays on metal roofs at a local community
college
>>and am wondering about tying off.  Most of the work will be done off of
scaffold
>>and JLGs, but there will be times I will have to access upper portions of
the
>>roof.  I am looking at two arrays that will be installed on standing seam
roofs
>>both with a 12/12 pitch.
>>
>>
>>How have people been working safely on roofs like this?
>>
>>
>>
>>As always, I really appreciate all the help.
>>
>>
>>
>>Jesse
>>
>>Sent from my iPad!!!
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Grundfos SQ Flex

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Allan.According to the IO101 literature it is rated at upto
265VAC..however in all its wiring "drawings" it only shows one hot, one
neutral and a ground!?? I am puzzled.?
Kirpal

On Wed, Apr 6, 2011 at 2:23 PM, Allan Sindelar <
al...@positiveenergysolar.com> wrote:

>  Kirpal,
> I believe that the IO101 is only designed to accept 120VAC, not 240. The
> supplied AC pigtail is 15A 120V, and it uses a contactor, which would be a
> specific voltage only. Unless I'm mistaken, you don't want to supply 220
> (240) VAC.
>
> I don't have answers for your other questions.
> Allan
>
>  *Allan Sindelar*
> *al...@positiveenergysolar.com* 
> NABCEP Certified Photovoltaic Installer
> NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> *Positive Energy, Inc.*
> 3201 Calle Marie
> Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
> *505 424-1112*
> *www.positiveenergysolar.com* <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/>
>
> *
> *
>
>
> On 4/6/2011 2:55 PM, Kirpal Khalsa wrote:
>
> Hi allso I have a pumping project using a grundfos SQ Flex pumpIt
> will operate on the grid when grid is present and then switch back to solar
> ready if the grid power should fail.here is the set up...
> 5-Sanyo HIT 220's Vmp non temp adjusted is 213VDC
> Pump is SQFlex 16 SQF-10 will have CU 200 controller and IO101 AC input
> box
>
> System has a pressure tank and pressure switch which will be used instead
> of float switch as there is no storage tank at or above ground level
> This system is a retrofit project to an existing well pumping system..
> Here is my questions:
> 1. Pump and CU 200 controller are rated for upto 300VDC but IO 101
> Controller is only rated for 225VDC.is that open circuit or max power on
> the modules
> 2. The Grundfos wiring diagrams only show 2 wires and a ground leaving the
> IO101 going to the CU200.What is happening when there is 240VAC
> supplying the system and what happens when it switches back to DC how is the
> power transmitted on those wires?  What happens to the second leg of the
> 240VAC generator/grid input?
> 3. Has anyone done one of these Grundos SQFlex back up water pumping
> systems connected to a pressure tank and did it operate as expected?
> Grundfos does not offer tech support...that is kind of a bummer
> Thanks for any advice or help
>
>
> --
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
>
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>


-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Grundfos SQ Flex

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Danathat is exactly the problembecause of the business model
grundfos has chosen it makes more sense to have a pump guy install and sell
the pump and we will install the solarhowevernone of the local pump
guys have any experience with the SQFlex pumps and have no idea how they
operate.so asking them has proven fruitless.I have been to more
grundfos sqflex trainings then themand water pumping is a very small
portion of our business...
I think Grundfos made a stupid move by abandoning all their solar
distribution.
Water pumping guys have no idea how to do solar so they are not pushing the
sqflex pumps and now the solar guys are being restricted from selling sqflex
pumps so the end result is grundfos shoots themselves in their own
foot..
its a crazy world out there...
Cheers,
Kirpal Khalsa

On Wed, Apr 6, 2011 at 2:03 PM, Dana  wrote:

> No tech support – This is why they have stopped selling to almost everyone
> but pump installers and AEE.
>
> I have lost all other suppliers on the GF Sq flex.
>
> T/G that at least AEE sells this item still.
>
>
>
> Can AEE help?  Or whomever sold it to you?
>
>
>
> Dana Orzel
>
> Great Solar Works, Inc
>
> E - d...@solarwork.com
>
> V - 970.626.5253
>
> F - 970.626.4140
>
> C - 970.209.4076
>
> web - www.solarwork.com
>
>
>
> "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988"
>
> Do not ever believe anything, but seriously trust through action.
>
>
>
> *From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
> re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Kirpal Khalsa
> *Sent:* Wednesday, April 06, 2011 2:55 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Grundfos SQ Flex
>
>
>
> Hi allso I have a pumping project using a grundfos SQ Flex pumpIt
> will operate on the grid when grid is present and then switch back to solar
> ready if the grid power should fail.here is the set up...
> 5-Sanyo HIT 220's Vmp non temp adjusted is 213VDC
> Pump is SQFlex 16 SQF-10 will have CU 200 controller and IO101 AC input
> box
>
> System has a pressure tank and pressure switch which will be used instead
> of float switch as there is no storage tank at or above ground level
> This system is a retrofit project to an existing well pumping system..
> Here is my questions:
> 1. Pump and CU 200 controller are rated for upto 300VDC but IO 101
> Controller is only rated for 225VDC.is that open circuit or max power on
> the modules
> 2. The Grundfos wiring diagrams only show 2 wires and a ground leaving the
> IO101 going to the CU200.What is happening when there is 240VAC
> supplying the system and what happens when it switches back to DC how is the
> power transmitted on those wires?  What happens to the second leg of the
> 240VAC generator/grid input?
> 3. Has anyone done one of these Grundos SQFlex back up water pumping
> systems connected to a pressure tank and did it operate as expected?
> Grundfos does not offer tech support...that is kind of a bummer
> Thanks for any advice or help
>
>
> --
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
> Renewable Energy Systems
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-218-0201 m
> 541-592-3958 o
>
> ___
> List sponsored by Home Power magazine
>
> List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>
> Options & settings:
> http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org
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> Check out participant bios:
> www.members.re-wrenches.org
>
>
>


-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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[RE-wrenches] Grundfos SQ Flex

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Hi allso I have a pumping project using a grundfos SQ Flex pumpIt
will operate on the grid when grid is present and then switch back to solar
ready if the grid power should fail.here is the set up...
5-Sanyo HIT 220's Vmp non temp adjusted is 213VDC
Pump is SQFlex 16 SQF-10 will have CU 200 controller and IO101 AC input
box

System has a pressure tank and pressure switch which will be used instead of
float switch as there is no storage tank at or above ground level
This system is a retrofit project to an existing well pumping system..
Here is my questions:
1. Pump and CU 200 controller are rated for upto 300VDC but IO 101
Controller is only rated for 225VDC.is that open circuit or max power on
the modules
2. The Grundfos wiring diagrams only show 2 wires and a ground leaving the
IO101 going to the CU200.What is happening when there is 240VAC
supplying the system and what happens when it switches back to DC how is the
power transmitted on those wires?  What happens to the second leg of the
240VAC generator/grid input?
3. Has anyone done one of these Grundos SQFlex back up water pumping systems
connected to a pressure tank and did it operate as expected?
Grundfos does not offer tech support...that is kind of a bummer
Thanks for any advice or help


--
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sanyo problems

[Kirpal Khalsa]

Have any wrenches here experienced any problems? We have a number of
projects currently proceeding with those modules right now. Has anyone
talked to Sanyo? Marco please include me on a shared PDF copy of the
reportthanks...Kirpal

On Apr 1, 2011 7:32 AM, "August Goers"  wrote:

Marco - I'd like to see the pdf as well if you don't mind. Thanks, August



aug...@luminalt.com



*From:* re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:
re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On Behalf Of *Marco Mangelsdorf
*Sent:* Thursday, March 31, 2011 7:31 PM
*To:* 'RE-wrenches'
*Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Sanyo problems





In the March issue of Photon magazine it’s being reported that Sanyo’s HiT
modules may be suffe...

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Value of PV system to a home

[Kirpal Khalsa]

What I have been putting forth to our customers and potential customers, is
that a PV system when looked at like an appliance is simply equal to the
value of the energy it produces over a given periodfor straight grid
tied systems I have used what I think is a conservative number of 20 years
and then I multiply that by today's energy costs...so if a system is
installed in Oregon and electricity is $.09/kWh and the system is expected
to produce 4500kWh per year then that system would add 4500kWh x $.09 x 20
years = $8100 in value to their property.in Oregon..
Certainly you could add average utility price increases over time to the
value of the energy produced, as well as reductions in system output
overtime as equipment degrades.additionally if a party is buying a house
equipped with a PV system they may not want to calculate a full 20 years
into that formula if the system was installed years earlier...I prefer
to use conservative numbers in my formula inputs, however the argument could
be made stating that the 20 year time span is too short and if the lifetime
is potentially double that the value of the system also doubles.
In my mind an off grid system can be more directly tied to the cost of the
equipment as the grid is not an alternative to the power that is
supplied.
Finally, we have never had a customer disagree with this basic approach,
however it still falls flat on its face if the customer is not planning on
moving or selling their property!

-- 
Sunny Regards,
Kirpal Khalsa
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer
Renewable Energy Systems
www.oregonsolarworks.com
541-218-0201 m
541-592-3958 o

On Tue, Mar 22, 2011 at 7:44 PM, Exeltech  wrote:

> *I spoke last October with the Appraisal Journal, and specifically with
> Rick Nevin,
> author of the referenced articles.
>
> *Mr. Nevin stated a recent review conducted by the Appraisal Journal
> confirmed
> the information in the reports is as applicable today as it was when the
> study
> was conducted, and even more so given the increased cost of energy that's
> occurred since the study was published.
>
> Dan
>
> --- On *Tue, 3/22/11, Jamie Johnson * wrote:
>
>
> From: Jamie Johnson 
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Value of PV system to a home
> To: "Keith Cronin" , "RE-wrenches" <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>, "Joel Davidson" <
> joel.david...@sbcglobal.net>
> Date: Tuesday, March 22, 2011, 5:01 PM
>
> Keith & Joel,
>
> The old metric was $20 in value for each $1 saved in energy, however the
> Appraisal Institute has not supported that valuation metric for some time
> now and neither has Fannie, Freddie or FHA.
>
> Using the gross sales price that the customer paid for PV as a valuation
> number was also shot down.
>
> And unfortunately most regional MLS databases don't provide a category for
> solar electric, solar hot water or solar pool heaters, so that makes it
> difficult for an appraiser to use the sales comparison approach.
>
> A year ago I began developing a valuation model for PV for the Appraisal
> Institutes Educational Committee and they are now incorporating parts of
> it into their training programs on "valuation of sustainable buildings" for
> appraisers.  Earlier this year DOE awarded a grant to Sandia Natl Lab to
> essentially do the same thing for the Solar America Cities program (soon to
> be the Solar America Communities program) and they have since picked up my
> work on the valuation model.
>
> A proof of concept spreadsheet (which takes all of the fun out of
> it) and pdf explanation of the valuation model should be released this
> summer.  I will provide the download link to the list when it is available.
>
>
> It's important to note that any valuation model for PV needs to be accepted
> by Fannie, Freddie and FHA before it is relied on and quoted by the PV
> industry.  There are currently ongoing discussions between FF&F, AI and DOE
> on PV valuations and hopefully they will resolve the PV valuation issues for
> loan transactions soon.
>
> Jamie Johnson
> NABCEP Certified PV Technical Sales Professional PVTS012911-44
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer 031310-118
>
> General Manager
> SOLAR POWER ELECTRIC
>
> **
>
>
>
>  Original Message 
> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Value of PV system to a home
> From: Keith Cronin 
> http://mc/compose?to=electrich...@yahoo.com>
> >
> Date: Tue, March 22, 2011 2:57 am
> To: RE-Wrenches 
> http://mc/compose?to=re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>
> >
>
>  Hi
>
> Was wondering if anyone has any new data points on the additional value a
> PV system adds to the home?
>
> If someone spends $X for a system and saves $Y a