Re: [RE-wrenches] Parallel Homegrid Stack'd Busbar

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

Hi Jason

We’re using the Midnite MNCB battery combiner for the same purpose.

https://www.midnitesolar.com/productPhoto.php?product_ID=439 

 &productCatName=BATTERY

I’m curious what others may suggest for options.

Thanks

Rich

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches
Sent: Thursday, June 29, 2023 7:55 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Cc: Jason Szumlanski
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Parallel Homegrid Stack'd Busbar

 

Hi all,

 

I'm doing my first installation with two 24 kWh Homegrid stacks. They will feed 
two Sol-Ark 15k. I'm seeking recommendations on busbars for connecting this up 
in the most elegant way possible.

 

Pictures speak 1,000 words, so if you have any I would appreciate it (off-list 
is fine).

 

Jason Szumlanski

Florida Solar Design Group

 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum issues?

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

Magnum inverters are indeed trickling back  into suppliers but most boards seem 
to remain unavailable to repair shops. Sensata is apparently selling new 
equipment 1st rather than taking care of customers with damaged inverters or 
warranty repairs that have been waiting a couple of years for parts.

Frustrating.

 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Andrew Perkins via RE-wrenches
Sent: Wednesday, June 21, 2023 12:54 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Cc: Andrew Perkins
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum issues?

 

Hey Ron,

That used to be the case for me here in California but as of 
recently I have been able to get MS4448PAE inverters from Zonna Energy over in 
PA. I don't know if they have boards these days but I would give them a try. 

 

Andrew Perkins

Greenwired

Store Manager/Service Tech​

P: 707-923-2001 ext. 100

1150 #1 Evergreen Rd

Redway, CA 95560

www.greenwired.com




 

  Leave us a review!





 

 

 

 On Mon, 19 Jun 2023 13:01:11 -0700 Ron Young via RE-wrenches 
 wrote ---

 

I’m in Canada, on the west coast, and while the supply chain issues over the 
last 2 years with Magnum inverters were severe they seem to have eased over the 
last few months. However I have just had a local service depot tell me that 
repair boards are unavailable and to get back to them in 4 - 6 months!! Just 
asking my U.S. colleagues, have you had the same experience in the last few 
months or is this just a local issue?

 

Ron Young

 

earthRight Products - Solareagle.com

Alternative Energy Solutions ~ Renewable Energy Products

 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Tech Support Issues with Sensata

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

Magnum has been difficult that last 3 years – we currently multiple inverters 
that are down needing boards for repair that can’t be obtained. It appears 
stock of new inverters is just starting to trickle back into suppliers so we 
hope to see parts soon.

It seemed Magnum quality took also took a hit when purchased by Sensata and I 
think operations were moved to a new location? – we found MMP’s shipped with 
missing parts etc. The best tech support engineer they had went to Outback, but 
then was lost tragically to complications from Covid.

 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Ray Walters via RE-wrenches
Sent: Wednesday, May 31, 2023 1:51 PM
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Cc: Ray Walters
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Tech Support Issues with Sensata

 

What were the issues?  I've not seen a Magnum have power quality troubles, but 
they are not the "grid" either.  My experience is that they are similar or a 
bit better than Outback, but certainly have measurable THD in the 4 to 5% 
range.  Its almost always finicky loads, and the inverter has always been 
within its tolerances, so I doubt you have an actual warranty issue.  However, 
I have seen inverter output get strange after lightning damage, which is not 
covered under warranty either. 

You need a decent meter that can measure THD, and can capture the peak voltage 
of the waveform.  A good oscilloscope is even better, so you can see the 
waveform.  

Stuff like clocks not keeping time, or certain digital controls on certain 
appliances not functioning, is not a warranty claim.  Lights dimming, or LEDs 
flickering is not a warranty claim.  These are normal living off grid, and the 
only thing better than a Magnum for power quality is Exeltech in my experience. 
 

Ray Walters
Remote Solar

On 5/31/2023 11:37 AM, Chris Sparadeo via RE-wrenches wrote:

Hi all, 

 

I have a client with a Magnum MS 4024- PAE inverter. There are some serious 
issues with power output quality and according to the client, another installer 
had started the RMA process while the inverter was still under warranty, 
however Sensata has not been responsive and has lost track of the case. They 
are asking for a new case to be initiated, but the inverter is now out of 
warranty. Has anyone out there had similar lack luster support issues with 
Sensata? 

 

Best,

 

Chris 

-- 

Chris Sparadeo

 

 

C_802-369-4458

H_802-728-3059





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Re: [RE-wrenches] Pika T701 & X3001 GT Inverter

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

We've had a good experience thus far with the Generac Powercell systems and 
tech support has been reasonable. You are supposed to be certified to sell and 
install the systems and most importantly in this case, you need a dealer number 
and tech id number in order to work with tech support. (of course they're still 
listed for retail sale on the internet direct to consumers)

Generac should be able to provide the name of a certified clean energy 
installer in that area. Doing a quick search on the Generac web site I found 
Abbot Electric, Maryville TN. 239-980-4764.
https://www.generac.com/dealer-locator.aspx?category=1

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Peter Giroux via RE-wrenches
Sent: Tuesday, December 6, 2022 4:18 PM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Cc: pgir...@mindspring.com
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Pika T701 & X3001 GT Inverter

Amanda

  Got a call from a family in North Ga who had a Generac system installed by 
some company out of Knoxville ( who did not install it themselves ). It is not 
working, the company who sold it will not service it or correct the issues. 
They claim they have no one who can do that. Apparently Generac does not seem 
to be able to help them either and the Family has asked that I come up and work 
on the system. Does anyone have a # for someone at Generac that will step up??

Thx
Peter Giroux
ASAE

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf Of 
Amanda Potter via RE-wrenches
Sent: Tuesday, December 6, 2022 3:45 PM
To: RE-wrenches 
Cc: Amanda Potter 
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Pika T701 & X3001 GT Inverter

Hello Wrenches,
Has anyone received any support from Generac for repairs, programming 
information, or warranty issues?
Since they own Pika, shouldn’t they support their products?

Thank You ahead of time.

Amanda Potter
Energy Storage Specialist
NABCEP PV Installation Professional
ADIRONDACK BATTERY & SOLAR, LLC
Potsdam, NY
(315) 212-2114 call/ text
Adirondackbatteryandsolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark/Fortress charging issue

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

We’ve started to use Fortress batteries for off grid installations lately as 
well. The tech support has been very frustrating and the integration guides are 
ridiculous – the Magnum guide was the worst – absolute nonsense, I believe most 
of which has been pulled from the Fortress site now. The variation in charge 
parameters for the inverter vs the charge controller for the Outback guide 
doesn’t make sense either. Lack of generator start/stop parameters in the 
integration guides have resulted in trial and error programming on our part to 
zero in on what works best.

 

Poor tech support on battery based systems is one of my biggest pet peeves in 
the industry………off grid customers rely on their equipment, unlike net metered 
installations it’s not just a matter of reducing their electrical bill it’s 
about keeping the lights on and the fridge working.

 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Ray Walters via RE-wrenches
Sent: Thursday, November 17, 2022 1:43 AM
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Cc: Ray Walters
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark/Fortress charging issue

 

Talk to Thomas Honey.  He is the Fortress rep, nice guy, and knowledgeable 
wrench.   He has stepped in on my issue.  

Ray  

On 11/16/2022 10:58 PM, Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches wrote:

Good Evening,

 

I have a frustrating charging issue involving 2 Fortress eVault Maxs connected 
to a Sol-Ark 15k. Commissioned the system last week, replacing a legacy 
off-grid Dual Stack SunnyIsland 5048s and 2-volt Rolls battery system.  
Initially, we connected one of the eVaults to the Sol-Ark, programmed it to 
Fortress' and Sol-Ark's specs, setup closed loop, and things seemed fine.  The 
battery charged at around 95 amps off the 20kW Kohler. The next day we 
connected the 2nd eVault, went through the procedures as Fortress suggested, 
made the necessary settings changes in the Sol-Ark, and that is when the issue 
started.  

 

Ever since we connected the 2nd eVault, we have not been able to get the charge 
rate much above a combined total of 35 amps.  Fortress has pretty much said 
that it can't be anything on their end (although the communication with them 
has been very much limited and frustrating). They say that nothing on their 
side would limit the charge rate to that low, especially if the batteries were 
in a lower state of charge.  We've talked to at least 3 different Sol-Ark 
technicians more than once.  We have changed the setting between closed loop, % 
SOC, and Battery Voltage multiple times.  We've tried dropping back to a single 
battery, both the first one we had connected and the second one (changing the 
battery setup and the Sol-Ark parameters, but have only seen at times a 
moderate increase in maximum charge rate (up to about 40 amps total).

 

This small increase happened after a Fortress technician suggested that we turn 
on both the generator and the grid charging toggles (the generator is connected 
to the grid port on the Sol-Ark as per Sol-Ark's recommendation.  Sol-Ark has 
run out of suggestions at the moment, and are having us cycle the batteries 
tonight and they will start another charge cycle in the morning to see if 
having a lower SOC along with the firmware reload will change anyhing (I don't 
think it will - it didn't the last several times.

 

Has anybody seen this type of behavior before?  I don't think it is a settings 
issue, as several technicians have gone through them, I have gone over them 
many times using the Fortress/Sol-Ark integration white papers. Hoping to get 
higher level  tech involved ASAP, since I don't feel like the lower level techs 
know enough to provide useful ideas.

 

Thanks,

Howie


Howie Michaelson
Sun Catcher
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™
Image removed by sender.
Solar Electric Systems Sales & Service
802-272-0004





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Re: [RE-wrenches] GT inverter for SWWP turbine

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

 

Same disastrous experience here as well with the Skyboxes.

We installed three – I now own them as I replaced them at my expense with 
another competing product.

Worse solar product I dealt with in the last 15 years.

 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Eric Smiley via RE-wrenches
Sent: Thursday, August 11, 2022 12:40 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Cc: Eric Smiley
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] GT inverter for SWWP turbine

 

Skybox is discontinued and tech support is limited. There are still significant 
software issues with them that make them unreliable for battery back-up. We are 
in the process of replacing the 3 Skyboxes we wish we had never installed.


Image removed by sender.

Eric Smiley, Project Manager
  e...@vecoop.ca
  T: 250.703.6004
  T: 888.386.0116
  VIRIDIANENERGY.CA

  Image removed by sender.

 

 

On Wed, 10 Aug 2022 at 20:00, Maverick Brown via RE-wrenches 
 wrote:

Jay

 

Have you (or any Wrench willing to share) installed SkyBox? If so, can you 
share your experience good or bad? 

 

Can you compare it to Sol-Ark? I’ve installed a half-dozen Sol-Arks but no 
SkyBox yet. I think I have a customer where SkyBox would be a good fit, but not 
enough personal data.  

Thanks in advance. 

 

 

Maverick Brown
Off-Grid Solar Commander since 2006
Maverick Solar Enterprises, Inc.

 • Solar Commander Remote Power

 • SunFlow Systems Cathodic Protection 
maver...@mavericksolar.com
512-460-9825

 





On Jun 28, 2022, at 6:26 PM, Jay via RE-wrenches 
 wrote:

Hi Jeremy,

Sol ark and Outback skybox. 
Might be others. 

It might be tricky dealing with the wind machine w/o batteries. 

Jay




On Jun 28, 2022, at 4:12 PM, Jeremy Coxon via RE-wrenches 
 wrote:

 

We have a customer who has a legacy off grid system which includes a SWWP 
whisper 200.  They now have utility power to the property and so they want to 
go straight grid tie and ditch the batteries and off grid system (even though 
it’s all in perfect working order).  Anyone know of an inverter that we could 
use to accomplish this goal?

 

Jeremy Coxon NABCEP 

Certified MWBE

 

Sent from my iPhone

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Dark Starting Simpliphi PHI3.5 batteries

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

Hi Howie
You may just need to cycle the breaker on the top of each battery to wake up 
after bms shuts down for low voltage.
If truly a dark start is required your welcome to borrow my 48v Iota if it’s 
worth your drive time back and forth to Sutton. 

Rich (cell 802-535-6191)


Sent from my iPad

> On Jul 27, 2022, at 9:59 PM, Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches 
>  wrote:
> 
> 
> Hi All,
> I was called into a job of a previously off-grid system that new owners had 
> an electrician bring the grid to, but the batteries ( a pair of Simpliphi 
> 3.5, which I have no experience with) have been dead for an unknown period of 
> time previously. I am trying to figure out the easiest way to restart the 
> system which has a VFX 3648 and FM60. I'm thinking the easiest way is to 
> bring in a 48volt charger to get the battery voltage up high enough to start 
> the FM60 and/or VFX, but that means purchasing a 48 volt charger, since I 
> don't have any Iotas sitting around any more.  If anyone has an easier way to 
> restart the batteries I'd love to hear it.
> Thanks,
> Howie 
> Howie Michaelson
> Sun Catcher
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™
> 
> Solar Electric Systems Sales & Service
> 802-272-0004
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[RE-wrenches] Solarworld Warranty

[Rich Nicol via RE-wrenches]

Hello Wrenches

Does anybody have a contact for whoever the 3rd party is that supposedly
will honor Solarworld warranties?  Also, have any of you pursued warranty
assistance due to issues with the Amphenol connectors (melting/arc faults)

I had thought the issue was only with Amphenol to MC4 connections but it
seems that Amphenol to Amphenol connections are also problematic. 

 

Thank You!
Rich

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum MM1524AE rebuild?

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Dave
Call John Hassle at Be Green Solar in Benton NH
He is an authorized Magnum repair facility and stocks parts at least for PAE 
etc.  it sure about 1524 AE though. Close by - just outside of Woodsville NH.
603-787-2317
Thanks
Rich

Sent from my iPad

> On Jun 8, 2021, at 9:01 AM, palumbo1...@gmail.com wrote:
> 
> 
> Is a Magnum MM1524AE inverter/charger repairable and if so by whom?
> It failed after being reconnected to a battery bank, the typical small spark 
> at the battery terminal when being reconnected was accompanied by a popping 
> sound in the Magnum. Killed the Magnum.
>  
> Dave Palumbo
> Hyde Park, VT
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Aurora PVI 4.2 inverter

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Howie
ABB (now Fimer)
1-877-261-1374.
They typically require specific photos for warranty.
Error code 031 is common.
Junk arc fault detector that require upgrade also common.
Thanks
Rich

Sent from my iPad

> On Nov 3, 2020, at 5:52 PM, Howie Michaelson  
> wrote:
> 
> 
> Hi All,
> Does anyone know if any manufacturer is currently responsible for warranty 
> issues of 2013 Aurora PVI 4.2-OUTD-S-US inverters? 
> I don't remember if this is an "ungrounded" inverter, but in any case, if it 
> needs replacement, what are the code rules for replacing it with a different 
> inverter? I believe it isn't required to upgrade to RSD equipment since it is 
> just a repair. Any suggestions for a good replacement that will reasonably 
> match the PVI's input DC voltage specs?
> Thanks,
> Howie
> Howie Michaelson
> Sun Catcher
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™
> 
> Solar Electric Systems Sales & Service
> 802-272-0004
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Inverters - Digital Clocks Losing Time?

[Rich Nicol]

Thanks for the feedback and pointers, its greatly appreciated – I checked 
frequency and it was spot on at 60Hz but with minimal decimal places on my 
meter. 

This must be something new with Magnum as I haven’t seen the voltage issues on 
other systems nor have I had any issues with appliances or clocks etc. 

I hate to admit that I seem to find myself in constant frustration for one 
reason or another with the primary suppliers of offgrid system components!

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Allan Sindelar
Sent: Monday, April 1, 2019 10:58 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum Inverters - Digital Clocks Losing Time?

 

Rich, this is a known flaw in the Magnum AE and PAE series. I have one longtime 
client for whom I supplied a 4448AE around 2009 who later told me that had he 
known of this frequency issue he wouldn’t have selected Magnum. 

Allan Sindelar 


On Apr 1, 2019, at 6:56 AM, Christopher Warfel  
wrote:

I would think it has to be frequency. What else could shift the time?  Up until 
about 2 years ago we were a grid isolated system and no one could use a plug in 
the wall clock. It takes just a very little off 60 Hz for a clock to keep 
incorrect time. Being off .5 Hz will result in 42,300 cycles in one day. When I 
worked in power plants the frequency was a digital display to the 6th place I 
think. The operator said if that decimal place was off by more than 2 from 
ISONE, it would trip off line. The steam turbines would be destroyed otherwise. 
Chris

On 4/1/2019 7:08 AM, Rich Nicol wrote:

Hello Wrenches

I have a site with two PAE 48v Magnum inverters stacked. System voltage 
fluctuates ~ +/- 4 volts ranging from 243 to 247. Evenly split on the two lines.

Site has a few electrical peculiarities I haven’t seen on the many other sites 
I have with Magnum inverters. Among those is three digital clocks on appliances 
that lose ~ 5 min per day consistently. A forth clock which is on a weather 
station with a transformer where it plugs into a receptacle keeps time and of 
course the computers do as they are web connected. 

I checked all neutral connections and verified proper N-G bond.

All connections appropriately torqued.

My recollection is the modest voltage swings are within Magnum spec. But its 
constantly moving about which seems somewhat suspect to me.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

RIch





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[RE-wrenches] Magnum Inverters - Digital Clocks Losing Time?

[Rich Nicol]

Hello Wrenches

I have a site with two PAE 48v Magnum inverters stacked. System voltage 
fluctuates ~ +/- 4 volts ranging from 243 to 247. Evenly split on the two lines.

Site has a few electrical peculiarities I haven’t seen on the many other sites 
I have with Magnum inverters. Among those is three digital clocks on appliances 
that lose ~ 5 min per day consistently. A forth clock which is on a weather 
station with a transformer where it plugs into a receptacle keeps time and of 
course the computers do as they are web connected. 

I checked all neutral connections and verified proper N-G bond.

All connections appropriately torqued.

My recollection is the modest voltage swings are within Magnum spec. But its 
constantly moving about which seems somewhat suspect to me.

Any suggestions?

Thanks

RIch

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar set backs

[Rich Nicol]

FD venting depends on direction of prevailing winds 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Kristopher Schmid
Sent: Thursday, July 12, 2018 4:07 PM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar set backs

 

I had a student tell me that firefighters are often venting through the gable 
side wall as opposed to the roof.  Can anyone confirm or deny this statement?




 

Shine On!

Kris Schmid
Legacy Solar, LLC
137 West 1st Avenue
Luck, WI 54853
www.legacysolar.com  
715-653-4295
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician
BSEE

 

On Tue, Jul 10, 2018 at 6:46 PM, mailto:cwar...@entech-engineering.com> > wrote:

NYSERDA out of NY has reasonable amendments to the IBC for setbacks for access 
and ventilation. They clarify that the hip roof valley is 18" either side for a 
total of 36" width. 

 

 

On 2018-07-10 17:38, Wayne Irwin wrote:

Calfire code seems to be the standard being somewhat enforced as the standard 
nationwide.

Wayne Irwin,
President
License #CVC56695
State Licensed Solar Contractor
Pure Energy Solar International Inc.
wa...@pureenergysolar.com  
http://PureEnergySolar.com
http://SolarChargingStation.net
352 377-6527 Office
352 336-3299 Fax


The Sun Is Always Shining!

The content of this message is Pure Energy Solar Confidential. If you are not 
the intended recipient and have received this message in error, any use or 
distribution is prohibited. Please notify me immediately by reply e-mail and 
delete this message from your computer system. Thank you.


  _  


From: RE-wrenches mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org> > on behalf of Daniel Young 
mailto:dyo...@dovetailsolar.com> >
Sent: Tuesday, July 10, 2018 5:25:01 PM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar set backs 

 

Hey Gary,

 

Ohio Fire Code does cover this. It's a matter of if the Fire marshal in you 
project area wants to waive or alter the requirements.

 

http://codes.ohio.gov/oac/1301:7-7-06v1

 

Specifically 605.11.1.2 is for residential buildings. There is some conflict in 
terms of Hip roofs in the code there. 605.11.1.2.2 states a single 3ft path on 
one edge or another for a hip roof, but 605.11.1.2.4 states that an 18 space is 
allowed when modules are mounted on two adjacent roof planes with a hip roof.

 

With Regards,

 

Daniel Young,

NABCEP Certified PV Installation ProfessionalTM: Cert #031508-90 

 

From: RE-wrenches mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org> > On Behalf Of gary easton
Sent: Monday, July 09, 2018 3:39 PM
To: RE-wrenches mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> >
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Solar set backs

 

Hello Wrenches,

What are you all seeing required as setbacks post 2017?  I am having inspectors 
vary between wanting a 3' lane at the bottom and sides to allowing the array 
down to the gutter, and from requiring between 18" and 3' at the ridge.

 

--

Gary Easton
Appalachian Renewable Power

Stewart, Ohio 45778
NABCEP Certified Solar PV   
 
T: 740-277-8498

 www.arp-solar.com  

 


"First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they fight you. Then you 
win."


~Ghandi

 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] No more Enphase

[Rich Nicol]

FYI: 

All Enphase Micro's still have 25 year warranty, but labor reimbursement
which is not written into warranty document is for first two years. After
that we're on our own for labor to replace failed units. 
This is from our inside sales rep at Enphase.

Rich

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
Behalf Of Chris Daum
Sent: Friday, July 14, 2017 10:48 AM
To: 'RE-wrenches' 
Subject: [RE-wrenches] No more Enphase

 

Fellow Wrenches:

 

To make a long story short, we are done with Enphase.  They've refused to
reimburse us for labor after replacing a faulty inverter.  So, what
micro-inverters are you using successfully, and how is the tech support
behind it?

 

Feel free to contact me offlist.

 

Best,

 

Chris Daum
Oasis Montana Inc.
406-777-4309 or 4321
406-777-4309 fax
  www.oasismontana.com 
  

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Generac EcoGen problem

[Rich Nicol]

I've seen a number of Eco Gen's go with no issues for a long time and 2
others blow all the oil out just as Drake noted. Rather worrisome!
Rich

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
Behalf Of Drake
Sent: Friday, April 29, 2016 1:18 PM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Generac EcoGen problem

The one and only EcoGen I installed blew out its oil in within the first
couple hours of running. 
It severely damaged the engine. Generac did the service and ultimately
replaced the unit. It had something to do with the two reservoirs and the
hoses.


At 11:59 AM 4/29/2016, you wrote:
>Wrenches,
>
>I service an off grid home that has an EcoGen 6kW Model 58181 LP gen 
>with a Serial Number of 8301854. It has 1,175 hrs on it during 2-1/2 
>years of service.
>
>. It appears that the crankcase is 
>filling with excessive amounts of oil.
>. There was a Generac Service Bulletin 
>in July of 2013 which predates this generators Serial Number. This 
>bulletin alerted the possibility of excessive oil in the crankcase due 
>to "incorrect routing of the pulse pump hoses".
>. From the pictures on the service 
>bulletin (and with the SN being higher) it looks like the generator in 
>question has properly routed hoses. See photo attached if you are 
>familiar with this problem.
>. There is an extra oil reservoir on 
>these units. The engine takes 1.7 quarts and the reservoir takes 4.2
Quarts.
>. I last changed the oil (and properly 
>filled both engine and reservoir) at 1,124 hours
>. Now at 1,175 hrs the generator runs 
>very roughly and blows lots of oily smelling blue/grey smoke. Most of 
>the oil is gone from the reservoir so it's pretty obvious that the oil 
>has flooded into the crankcase.
>. If the Pulse Pump hoses are routed 
>correctly and I'd say they are since the SN is later than the 
>recognized problem AND the fact this generator ran great for over 1,100 
>hours then maybe is the pulse pump itself is bad?
>. I wanted to run this by this list 
>before talking to Generac because I know there are a number of wrenches 
>whom have experience with the EcoGen.
>. Can I simply just drain the oil and 
>only refill the 1.7 Qts in the engine and run the unit?
>
>Thanks for your time,
>
>David Palumbo
>Independent Power LLC
>462 Solar Way Drive
>Hyde Park, VT 05655
>802-371-8678 cell
>802-888-4917 home
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] battery-based inverter

[Rich Nicol]

Had Radian failures and typical issues contacting Outback tech support in a 
reasonable amount of time. (ended up replacing boards on site, just like FX 
inverters, which is nice rather than sending the unit in)

Xantrex XW is massively improved after a rocky past, interconnect box is very 
spacious and easy to work in, and perhaps most important – tech support to 
assist with programming etc. has proved to be top notch and readily available 
when needed. All of this is counter to what our experience was historically 
with Xantrex but perhaps the Schneider purchase has made a positive impact?

RIch

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of john.blittersd...@gmail.com
Sent: Thursday, January 14, 2016 9:36 PM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] battery-based inverter

 

Kirk,  I agree with Peter.  I have installed several Radians with good luck.  I 
installed one SI and it worked ok but was more expensive and very time 
consuming to install.  Did one XW and would never do it again.  Never has 
worked right.

 

John

Central Vermont Solar & Wind

 

 



Sent from my iPhone


On Jan 14, 2016, at 7:37 PM, Peter Parrish mailto:peter.parr...@calsolareng.com> > wrote:

My 2 centavos. Stick with them. I prefer their approach over SMA.

 

-  Peter

 

Peter T. Parrish, Ph.D.

President, SolarGnosis

1107 Fair Oaks Ave.

Suite 351

South Pasadena, CA 91030

(323) 839-6108

peter...@pobox.com  

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Kirk Herander
Sent: Thursday, January 14, 2016 12:39 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: [RE-wrenches] battery-based inverter

 

Hello,

Can anyone recommend a good battery-based inverter for grid-intertie? I need 
both generator and utility inputs, 120 or 240 output. I have experience with 
the OB Radian series but don’t know what else is out there. Thanks.

 

Kirk Herander

Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC 

Celebrating our 25th Anniversary 1991-2016

www.vermontsolarnow.com

dba Vermont Solar Engineering

NABCEPTM  2003 Inaugural Certificant

VT RE Incentive Program Partner

802.863.1202

 

 

 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] What are the most reliable OTG washers these days?

[Rich Nicol]

I feel like the most damaging aspect of off grid power to household electronics 
in my experience living off grid for 20 years isn’t the quality of the 
inverters output (thinking of typical high grade inverters such as 
Magnum/Outback/Schneider) but rather the transfer back and forth from inverter 
to generator when backup charging is required. This is the where the sag or 
spike is the most severe – depending on the current being demanded when the 
transfer occurs. 

In addition, of course, gen power is often less than stable and clean – 
depending on the quality of the gen, its condition etc.

Staber washer seems very reliable, we had one for years with no issues, it just 
doesn’t clean clothes as well as standard front or top load design.

I’m curious what others use for strategies when firing up or turning off the 
generator? 

Thanks,

Rich

 

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Will White
Sent: Wednesday, December 23, 2015 8:10 AM
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] What are the most reliable OTG washers these days?

 

I had a problem with one of the control boards on my front load dryer on my off 
grid Outback system.  Seems that some type of surge fried the board.  It was 
replaced and I added a whole house AC surge protector.  I don’t know if the 
surge protector worked but I haven’t had any problems since.

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of Jerry Shafer
Sent: Wednesday, December 23, 2015 1:32 AM
To: RE-wrenches mailto:re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> >
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] What are the most reliable OTG washers these days?

 

I got a kenmore front loader no issues, i always tell my customers to go with 
off the shelf rather then something else
Jerry

On Dec 22, 2015 8:29 PM, "jay" mailto:jay.pe...@gmail.com> > wrote:

HI Jeff,

I’ve got a new front load digital kenmore that works on my 10 yr old VFX 3524.
no problems at all.
I don’t have the exact model, can get it for you.

jay




> On Dec 22, 2015, at 5:00 PM, Jeff Oldham   > wrote:
>
> I'm particularly interested in ones that are happy on Outback inverters, 
> front loaders preferred.
>
> Thanks and Happy Holidays!!
>
>
> From the Solar, Wind and Hydro powered office of Jeff Oldham/Regenerative 
> SOLutions
>
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[RE-wrenches] Mounting on Steel and Fabric Buildings

[Rich Nicol]

Hello Wrenches

I am in the initial planning stage of a 150kw roof mount installation. It’s new 
construction and the architect for this commercial agricultural building is 
strongly considering a steel (manufacture is Legacy) and fabric building. 

Any insights or experiences with steel & fabric buildings? Any recommendations 
for attachment methods or product manufacturers? 

Thanks

Rich

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of d...@foxfire-energy.com
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2015 7:07 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback AGS & eq

 

Seems I was once told that (Depending on software revision), successful 
Switching from Manual to Auto depended on whether or not the system itself 
called for a start to begin with i.e. whether the start criteria was met in 
either AGS or a charge mode when the genny was started in manual. My problem 
was the customer just wanted to run the genset periodically to top off the 
batteries.. He would start the genny in manual (from the mate 2), and as soon 
as he kicked it into auto, the genny would shut down. As i recall, we found the 
smoking gun under timers.. If a clock was still running (Or stopped short) you 
could switch to auto and it would run out the clock. But if the timers were 
satisfied, AGS would shut down the genny. 

 

Good Luck

 

db

 


Dan Brown
Foxfire Energy Corp.
Renewable Energy Systems
(802)-483-2564
www.Foxfire-Energy.com
NABCEP #092907-44



 

 Original Message 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback AGS & eq
From: William Miller 
Date: Thu, February 12, 2015 6:27 pm
To: RE-wrenches 

Mac:

 

Apparently so, but this operation is not supported. It supposedly works. 

 

William




On Feb 12, 2015, at 3:18 PM, Mac Lewis  wrote:

Hi Jay & William,

 

Just so I understand, you can put the mate into auto right after the eq is 
enabled (not after eq has finished), and it will manage the generator?  Is that 
right?

 

Thanks

 

On Thu, Feb 12, 2015 at 10:45 AM, jay peltz  wrote:

I"ve had clients do it for years with no problems that I know of.

 

jay

 

peltz power

 

 

 

On Feb 12, 2015, at 9:47 AM,  wrote:





Friends:

 

I understood the generator had to be started and stopped manually.  I have a 
client who was using the sequence below to stop the generator automatically.  
To have the generator stop automatically has a convenience factor, but I do 
like my clients to verify the cycle has accomplished the prescribed regimen, 
and walking away from the process does not accomplish that. 

 

I spoke with Outback regarding the procedure of engaging the auto mode prior to 
completion of the EQ and the reply was that the system had not been engineered 
to operate this way so the results could not be guaranteed.

 

 

William

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf 
Of jay peltz
Sent: Thursday, February 12, 2015 8:54 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback AGS & eq

 

Hi Mac

 

I don't think there is a global eq function. 

Eq continues to be manual on inverters. 

 

Gen to manual on

Initiate EQ 

Gen to auto

Done

 

 

Jay

Peltz power. 

 

 

 

 

 


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-- 

 

 

 

Mac Lewis

"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates

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  _  


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Re: [RE-wrenches] Horizontal axis

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Dana

I'm researching washing machines for my off grid home - check out the
attached link which is updated on a monthly basis by CEE (Consortium for
Energy Efficiency)

http://library.cee1.org/sites/default/files/library/9268/2014_December_CEE_R
esidentialClothesWashers.pdf

 

Rich

 

From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On
Behalf Of Dana
Sent: Monday, January 05, 2015 12:59 PM
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Horizontal axis

 

Hey All Long time off list - 

 

Does anyone have any decent recommendations on low wattage -  horizontal
axis washing machines? 

I have (2) off-grid clients that are at the end of their Fisher Paykal
machines life (140-160 watthours per load) & I did not know what to
recommend as it has been a long time since I have been asked this question.

 

As always thanks in advance.

 



Dana Orzel 

Great Solar Works, Inc -  NABCEP # 051112-136

E - d...@solarwork.com  - Web - solarwork.com 

O - 970.626.5253  C - 208.721.7003 - No FAX Line

"Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988"  

P Please consider the environment before printing this email.

 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Church Solar

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Alex

A local Unitarian Church in my area installed solar where the generation
credits were group net metered. Everyone who invested in the system (or
bought a panel) that was mounted on the church had the proportionate amount
of the credits applied to their utility bill at their residences. They were
advised by a CPA that they could take the 30% federal tax credit from IRS
form 5695 on their personal returns as owners of a portion of the system.
IRS form 5695 reads like a residence, but not necessarily a main home,
rather than a system remotely installed and invested in to me.  Some
accounting professionals are more aggressive in their interpretations to
find tax breaks than others. 

I always advise that as solar installers we can point toward tax incentives
but recommend to customers that they talk to an accountant about application
of the tax credit.

Thanks

Rich 

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Alex Cozine
Sent: Thursday, September 12, 2013 12:42 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Church Solar

 

I ask, WWWD, 

 

what would wrenches do for church/school installations in respect to
federal/production incentives specifically at churches and schools?

 

One person champions the federal tax incentive? 

A "corporation/congregation" owns the proposed system?

Each member of congregation owns a module? 

 

Is there any way to have tax/production incentives at a church?


 

-- 

Alex Cozine

NABCEP Certified Solar PV InstallerT
Journeyman Electrician

Brothers Electric Solar
brotherselectricsolar.com 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Relay for 48v Vent Fan

[Rich Nicol]

Hi All

We've used the 12v fans directly off the charge controllers for 12, 24 and
48v systems, but I like the idea of the 48v fan on this system since it
moves a great volume of air than the 12 and 24v versions. Two 12 v fans may
be a good way to go and it builds in a failsafe- if one dies the other will
likely still be working. I'll also check out Grainger and Mouser for a relay
that will work - thanks for the tip!

Rich 

 

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Allan
Sindelar
Sent: Friday, August 09, 2013 12:25 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Relay for 48v Vent Fan

 

Rich,
We simply use 12V Zephyr vents on our 24 and 48V systems. One FM controller
will power one 12V fan directly, or will run a 12V relay for more than one.
Is that a solution for you?

Allan Sindelar
 <mailto:al...@positiveenergysolar.com> al...@positiveenergysolar.com
NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional 
NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional
New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
Founder and Chief Technology Officer
Positive Energy, Inc., a Certified B CorporationTM
3209 Richards Lane
Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507
505 424-1112 office 780-2738 cell
 <http://www.positiveenergysolar.com/> www.positiveenergysolar.com

On 8/8/2013 5:49 PM, Rich Nicol wrote:

Hello Wrenches,

 

Does anyone have any advice about what to use for a relay to power a 48 volt
Zephyr battery vent fan using the 12 volt auxiliary output from the Midnite
Classic Charge controllers. The fan only draws 6 watts but my problem is the
48 volt side of the equation. A supplier has recommend  a double pole/double
throw relay rated for up to 30 amps at 24 volts wired in series. I'm curious
if anyone knows of a relay rated for 48volts (actually higher voltage since
the fan is signaled to come on when the battery reaches gassing voltage)
that would work in this application or if there is widespread agreement that
the 24volt rated relay would work fine since we are requiring only minimal
current and spreading between two contacts.

As always, your input is greatly valued!
Thanks,

Rich 






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[RE-wrenches] Relay for 48v Vent Fan

[Rich Nicol]

Hello Wrenches,

 

Does anyone have any advice about what to use for a relay to power a 48 volt
Zephyr battery vent fan using the 12 volt auxiliary output from the Midnite
Classic Charge controllers. The fan only draws 6 watts but my problem is the
48 volt side of the equation. A supplier has recommend  a double pole/double
throw relay rated for up to 30 amps at 24 volts wired in series. I'm curious
if anyone knows of a relay rated for 48volts (actually higher voltage since
the fan is signaled to come on when the battery reaches gassing voltage)
that would work in this application or if there is widespread agreement that
the 24volt rated relay would work fine since we are requiring only minimal
current and spreading between two contacts.

As always, your input is greatly valued!
Thanks,

Rich 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions

[Rich Nicol]

While in the past not being a fan of Generac, we've had the same positive
experiences thus far with the Eco Gen. The two wire start is simple and
clear. It comes set up for 120v. The kit initially supplied for the 240v
conversion was incomplete and the directions made absolutely no sense. I
believe the directions for the 240v conversion have now been revised. While
we don't sell generators either we do complete the connection to our systems
and program the autostart etc. Thus far the two Eco Gen's connected to our
systems have run well. One of which has 800 hours on it with no issues thus
far.
Thanks
Rich

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
penobscotso...@midmaine.com
Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2013 8:08 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] generator suggestions

Ray,
   We don't install generators but have installed several (4) systems where
the customer has ordered and had installed Generac's Eco-Gen, if that is the
model you're referring to. In the past I would NEVER recommend Generac. The
gen installer had to install the two wire gen start option and in one case
convert the system for 120 output. At least two have been in use for more
than a year and a half with no tuneup and no complaints from the client. You
know that we are the first to be blamed when the gen goes out of voltage or
freq.  It must be the fault of the solar system...One of the clients is
on Cat Island in the Bahamas, the  others are in Maine. I have been
recommending them to clients with smaller load demands/systems these days.
While they are not Onan or Kohler, they seem to me to be made especially for
off grid solar systems,reasonably priced and until I see problems with them
I will continue to recommend them when they fit the bill.

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
PenobscotSolar Design



> I just found Generac's Off grid model 6 Kw.  I know I've heard nothing 
> but $%& about Generac, but this unit appears to actually be designed 
> specifically for off grid, and has a special oil cooling system and 
> runs at 2600 rpm.  Anybody dare try one?
>
> Ray Walters
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

[Rich Nicol]

Soladeck it is, thanks everyone.
Rich

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of SwingJunkie
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2012 9:48 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

Rick,
Another nice thing about the Soladeck is that it can be located directly
under a module and is thus visible on the rooftop.  Don't forget to seal the
conduit entry into the residence.  

Cheers
Carl
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Dave
Perfect! I forgot about the SolaDeck, I believe they're even in stock
locally.
Thanks
Rich

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dave Palumbo
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2012 9:20 AM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

Rich,

We have been using SolaDeck PV roof mount enclosure. NEMA 3R with a flashed
penetration. Can use for combining, or simply as a pass through box.

Dave

David Palumbo
Independent Power LLC
462 Solar Way Drive
Hyde Park, VT 05655
www.independentpowerllc.com
NABCEP Certified PV Installer
Vermont Solar Partner
25 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194 


 


-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Rich Nicol
Sent: Sunday, November 25, 2012 8:11 AM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

Wrenches,
We typically run conduit for roof mounts over the edge of the roof to the
eaves, rather than penetrate the roof whenever possible. An upcoming
installation on an freshly asphalt shingled roof requires that we penetrate
the roof for the conduit run (Enphase). I'm wondering if there are any
suggestions for preferred flashing products and best known practices. It's
always seemed to me that the typical Oatey type flashing dries and cracks
eventually.
Thanks for your insights..
Rich




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[RE-wrenches] Best practices for conduit penetration on roof

[Rich Nicol]

Wrenches,
We typically run conduit for roof mounts over the edge of the roof to the
eaves, rather than penetrate the roof whenever possible. An upcoming
installation on an freshly asphalt shingled roof requires that we penetrate
the roof for the conduit run (Enphase). I'm wondering if there are any
suggestions for preferred flashing products and best known practices. It's
always seemed to me that the typical Oatey type flashing dries and cracks
eventually.
Thanks for your insights..
Rich




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[RE-wrenches] Helios Modules

[Rich Nicol]

Hello Wrenches, 
We are considering Helios 6T modules from Helios Solar Works of Milwaukee,
Wisconsin for some upcoming projects. Does anyone have any insight from
experience into Helios in respect to number of years in business, quality of
the product, warrantee support etc.? 
Thanks,
Rich Nicol



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Re: [RE-wrenches] Grid tie with BB

[Rich Nicol]

Thanks Dan/Dick and Larry – 

My concern was too high a charge rate, particularly when the batteries are 
cycled during or after an outage when the controllers are delivering maximum 
current and the inverter is not selling, yet not wanting to limit the charge 
controllers when we’re back in grid tied mode. Outback noted that you can just 
limit the controllers during extended outages, but I would prefer that 
customers not have to make adjustments to the charge rates.

What I failed to consider is the particularly high charge rates that AGMs are 
able to withstand compared to FLAs. With a few tweaks to the system design we 
can easily hit a ~ .25C rate which is ideal for the batteries.

I like the perspective of the inverter as diversion controller when it’s in 
sell mode. 

Thanks again for your help!

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of 
d...@foxfire-energy.com
Sent: Sunday, September 02, 2012 11:01 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Grid tie with BB

 

I'm with Dick. I liken grid tied inverters to diversion controllers. MPPT 
charge controllers (In Grid Tie Mode / talking to a HUB), pretty much just 
track a max power from the array. Good luck.

 

db

 


Dan Brown
Foxfire Energy Corp.
Renewable Energy Systems
(802)-483-2564
www.Foxfire-Energy.com
NABCEP #092907-44

 

 Original Message 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Grid tie with BB
From: richard.l.rat...@valley.net (Richard L Ratico)
Date: Sun, September 02, 2012 9:16 am
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org

Rich,

If I understand your question, I think you're missing the functioning of the
inverter. Working independently of the charge controller, it will sell to
prevent overcharging the batteries. Correctly configuring the inverter's voltage
thresholds accomplishes this.

Dick Ratico


--- You wrote:
Wrenches,

I'm have a mental block with battery backup systems such as the Outback
Radian. Perhaps someone can help me get over it!

Essentially these systems sell back power off the top of the battery bank
and the array is maintaining the state of charge of the battery bank through
traditional charge controllers. If you have a modest battery bank sized for
limited use on critical circuits and a good size array for the benefit of
net metering I would think it would be necessary to limit the current the
charge controllers are capable of delivering to the battery bank to prevent
damage to the batteries when the controllers are Bulking or Absorbing, but
then it would seem that we limiting the utility of the larger array. If the
current from the controllers was not limited they will self-limit as voltage
rises, plus I suppose they will mostly be in float mode except when the
batteries are cycled but again it seems that we are limiting the capability
of the array compared to a straight grid tied system with a traditional grid
tied only inverter.

An example would be a 8000 watt array using a couple of flexmax80
controllers with a string of 8 - L16 AGMs feeding a Radian.

What am I missing here?

Thanks 

Rich
--- end of quote ---
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[RE-wrenches] Grid tie with BB

[Rich Nicol]

Wrenches,

I'm have a mental block with battery backup systems such as the Outback
Radian. Perhaps someone can help me get over it!

Essentially these systems sell back power off the top of the battery bank
and the array is maintaining the state of charge of the battery bank through
traditional charge controllers. If you have a modest battery bank sized for
limited use on critical circuits and a good size array for the benefit of
net metering I would think it would be necessary to limit the current the
charge controllers are capable of delivering to the battery bank to prevent
damage to the batteries when the controllers are Bulking or Absorbing, but
then it would seem that we limiting the utility of the larger array. If the
current from the controllers was not limited they will self-limit as voltage
rises, plus I suppose they will mostly be in float mode except when the
batteries are cycled but again it seems that we are limiting the capability
of the array compared to a straight grid tied system with a traditional grid
tied only inverter.

An example would be a 8000 watt array using a couple of flexmax80
controllers with a string of 8 - L16 AGMs feeding a  Radian.

What am I missing here?

Thanks 

Rich

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] L feet no flashing in shingle roof

[Rich Nicol]

The GRK fasteners mentioned in a previous post associated with the Ecofasten 
flashing and L feet are self-drilling, but a pilot hole is still helpful in 
some instances. Very nice structural fasteners – high quality stainless, 
extremely course thread to increase pull out value and they use a T30 bit to 
drive. 

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Benn At 
DayStarSolar
Sent: Tuesday, July 03, 2012 6:36 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] L feet no flashing in shingle roof

 

I haven't read up on the mentioned structural screws yet, but do they 
specifically state that they can be driven "without" a pilot hole?  What is the 
justification and how are they different so that they won't cause a board to 
split under pressure?

Does anyone have some good info on this?

benn

Sent from a 'smart' phone, with tiny keys. Please excuse shortcuts and typos. 


On 2012-07-03, at 3:53 PM, "David Brearley" 
 wrote:

+1 on the use of structural screws. We ran an article about lag screws a couple 
years ago:

 

  
http://solarprofessional.com/article/?file=SP3_4_pg70_Shelly

 

One of the things that surprised me when I read this manuscript is how variable 
lag screws are in terms of construction and quality. Besides the convenience of 
being able to drive a structural screw without a pilot hole, the engineering 
specs are likely better documented and the manufacturing tolerances are 
probably tighter as well. 

 

FWIW: I think that using unflashed attachments in these litigious times is 
unwise. It's not consistent with best practices in the construction industry. 
It does not meet building codes. It violates the roof warranty. It makes your 
competition look good. 

 

We ran our first article on this topic 4 years ago, in our inaugural issue of 
SolarPro magazine:

 

  
http://solarprofessional.com/article/?file=SP1_1_pg72_Fain

 

The industry has come a long way since then, both in terms of awareness and in 
terms of off-the-shelf flashed attachment options. There are so many quality 
flashed attachment solutions to chose from now that I'm not sure why anyone 
would knowingly expose themselves to a possible construction negligence claim.

 

Drive straight,

 

David Brearley, Senior Technical Editor

SolarPro magazine 
NABCEP Certified PV Installer ™
david.brear...@solarprofessional.com
Direct: 541.261.6545




On Jul 3, 2012, at 4:11 PM, Garrison Riegel wrote:





The EcoFasten GF1 flashing is easy to install on a retrofit and will not 
necessarily add any height to the rail.  If you do need to trim the flashings 
installed around the skylight, then I would recommend adding sealant to these 
penetrations.  We ditch the included lag and use a 5/16” GRK RSS (self tapping 
structural screw).  The combination works great and does not require a pilot 
hole.

 

RSS:

http://www.grkfasteners.com/en/RSS_1_2_information.htm

 

GF1

http://ecofastensolar.com/pdf/GF1%20Cutsheets.pdf

 

Best,

 

Garrison Riegel

Project Manager

 

Solar Service Inc

[p] 847-677-0950

[f] 847-647-9360

www.solarserviceinc.com  

 

NABCEP Certified Solar PV and Thermal Installer™

 

 

“There is no room for flashings. The L feet will go very close to the skylights 
and the flashing would hit the edge of them. Plus there is an existing array 
that was done by another installer that is done with L feet only. The new array 
would be higher.”

 

  _  

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar World 2.0 frames

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Dave/Wrenches

We've been using the SW with both the 2.5 and the 2.0 frames on most of our
systems lately. The 2.0 frames work fine in traditional roof mounts, as long
as the racking system chosen has good options for cable management.  We did
a DPW TPM with them last year where I came away in agreement with Todd, back
mounting is better - I didn't like the DPW top mount clips. The lack of the
flange on the pole mount was also difficult due to the inability to use
clips to manage the PV cables. The modules are well constructed, durable and
fairly square relative to others we've used. We are now using the 2.5 frame
almost exclusively, the flange is also nice for top mounting because it
feels more secure when handling the modules on roofs and scaffolding.
Another benefit is we've been able to source them locally (as you would be
able to as well of course) which has been really convenient. The black
framed, mono crystalline modules with the 2.0 frame we did on a recent
standing seam roof mount look great! 

Thanks

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dave Palumbo
Sent: Friday, May 04, 2012 9:01 PM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Solar World 2.0 frames

 

All,

 

We are considering using Solar World 2.0 framed modules. Not having put
hands on these yet, we are looking for testimonials and opinions on these
"top mount only" modules. 

And while we're at, it what about Solar World's 2.5's with the bottom mount
flange?

 

David Palumbo

Independent Power LLC 

462 Solar Way Drive

Hyde Park, VT 05655

www.independentpowerllc.com 

NABCEP Certified PV Installer

Vermont Solar Partner

24 Years Experience, (802) 888-7194 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Off Gassing and CO Detectors

[Rich Nicol]

We use plywood boxes with sloped top as well, I like the sloped top not only to 
help migrate the gasses but also because of the fact that a flat surface 
usually collects stuff! We use soffit vents at the bottom of the box and Zephyr 
vents to evacuate the enclosure but if the vent fails all there is to evacuate 
the box is a small hole on the side of the vent.  I like the idea of having a 
small passive vent in addition to the Zep fans as an added precaution. I 
wouldn’t rely on a CO detector to detect hydrogen, it was a yet another 
learning for me, but it does seem like it could help alert the customer of an 
issue with venting.  We have customers that leave their off grid homes for over 
a week due to their jobs so we need to have the battery bank charging and 
venting be as robust as it can be since humans are not always around to make 
the decisions to start the generator to charge or to note that the vent is not 
working. 

 

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Dana
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2012 11:43 AM
To: 'RE-wrenches'
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Battery Off Gassing and CO Detectors

 

I am a firm believer in visual inspection the battery bank prior to opening the 
top weather there is an issue or just looking.

 

We use plywood boxes, sloping top, caulked top frame, top is ¼” Plexiglas /  
edged with flat edged aluminum storm window frame to provide stability to screw 
down on the edge and keep the Plexiglas from cracking while securing down.  Top 
is not cheap but  it is clear, resists outgasing, long life, light, & hopefully 
will keep a client from stacking stuff on top of the battery bank esp. if 
sloped.

 

There are several extrusion options so look before you order it as to the 
function of having a flat to attach closed cell foam and running screws through 
it. 

 

Then we apply a closed cell foam gasket to the aluminum top frame not the wood 
box. Seems to last much better than attaching the foam to the box itself.

 

Bottom is lined with EDPM [pond liner] available at most irrigation and 
underground pipe wholesales. Lay it flat and fold it up and secure to interior.

 

Also 2” screened bird vent inlet low [almost floor level] at the diagonal 
opposite corner of the box from the vent fan exit point.

 

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"

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org 
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of john
Sent: Friday, February 03, 2012 9:23 AM
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] wrenches] Battery Off Gassing and CO Detectors

 

Rich,

   I have found that having the CO detector anywhere nearby seems to pick up 
the battery gasses.  I had a problem with one customer's battery box (built by 
their carpenter) made of pine boards tightly fitted together. It was leaking 
gasses thru the crack between the boards on the top near the vent.  I put 
electrical tape on the crack and the problem was solved.  The vent fan was 
working fine but did not have enough volume to keep the gasses from escaping 
upward and out of the crack. A good reason to use plywood or something else 
other than multiple boards.  I would definitely agree with Bob that the CO 
monitor does work to indicate a bad fan.   I have had them go off when the 
voltage set point on the dux relay was set too high to catch the early stages 
of gassing.

 

John

CVSolar
 

-Original Message-
From: Rich Nicol 
To: 'RE-wrenches' 
Sent: Thu, Feb 2, 2012 9:40 pm
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Battery Off Gassing and CO Detectors

Wrenches

I understand that battery gassing of Hydrogen Sulfide can set off CO detectors. 
 A new customer who I am about to replace a large battery bank for had his 
furnace tech on site today to check for proper operation of the furnace since 
his CO detector was going off, the tech found the high levels of CO were coming 
from the battery bank. I recognize its not actually CO but rather it’s hydrogen 
sulfide since his generator had recently been running to charge the batteries 
and I assume that the detector couldn’t differentiate the Hydrogen Sulfide from 
the carbon monoxide. Does anyone have any insight into the mechanism that CO 
detectors use to detect the gas and secondly could they be used reliably to 
detect battery gassing that isn’t being evacuated from the battery enclosure 
such as when a power vent fails? Maybe a CO detector could be located near 
enough to the vent hole in the Zephyr fan to detect high levels of Hydrogen 
Sulfide that aren’t being pushed out when the fan fails to operate and open its 
damper? Power vent failure is a fear that a number of customers have expressed, 
maybe this could be  a method of 

[RE-wrenches] Battery Off Gassing and CO Detectors

[Rich Nicol]

Wrenches

I understand that battery gassing of Hydrogen Sulfide can set off CO
detectors.  A new customer who I am about to replace a large battery bank
for had his furnace tech on site today to check for proper operation of the
furnace since his CO detector was going off, the tech found the high levels
of CO were coming from the battery bank. I recognize its not actually CO but
rather it's hydrogen sulfide since his generator had recently been running
to charge the batteries and I assume that the detector couldn't
differentiate the Hydrogen Sulfide from the carbon monoxide. Does anyone
have any insight into the mechanism that CO detectors use to detect the gas
and secondly could they be used reliably to detect battery gassing that
isn't being evacuated from the battery enclosure such as when a power vent
fails? Maybe a CO detector could be located near enough to the vent hole in
the Zephyr fan to detect high levels of Hydrogen Sulfide that aren't being
pushed out when the fan fails to operate and open its damper? Power vent
failure is a fear that a number of customers have expressed, maybe this
could be  a method of alerting the homeowner that there is an issue.

Thanks

Rich

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Paralleling Multiple Inverter

[Rich Nicol]

Wrenches

Thanks for the detailed responses.

My understanding is the same as William's that my total back feed value is
based on the over current devices for each inverter which is 40 amps X 4 =
160 Amps.  

Where I'm having a problem is choosing a panel based in respect to
considering both the inverter feed and the utility side or just the inverter
feeder side.  Considering just the feed of the inverters is certainly
preferable as Mark suggests since that would allow for use of a 200amp
panel.  

My take on it in that respect is a 200 amp panel, with no additional slots
other than those for the 4 inverters with clear signage that no load
circuits are permitted in this panel. A second small panel would then be
employed if any load circuits were required for lighting or monitoring
devices.

Thanks

Rich

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of William
Miller
Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2012 2:28 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Paralleling Multiple Inverter

 

Mark:

I would respectfully disagree, based on my reading.  If you have code
citations that inform me otherwise, I would be very grateful to expand my
knowledge.

Pending hearing otherwise from you, here is what I know, based on 2008 code,
and assuming load side connection  (2008 citations in italics):

1. 690.64(B)(1) Dedicated Overcurrent and Disconnect. Each source
interconnection shall be made at a dedicated circuit breaker
or fusible disconnecting means.

Each inverter will require a 40 amp circuit breaker.  The value of that
breaker is calculated by adding a 25% continuous duty rating to the maximum
AC output, which is 25 amps: 25 * 1.25 = 31.25.  The next breaker size up is
40 amps, so you need 40 amp breakers.

2. 690.64(B)(2) Bus or Conductor Rating. The sum of the ampere
ratings of overcurrent devices in circuits supplying power
to a busbar or conductor shall not exceed 120 percent of the
rating of the busbar or conductor.

The designer must add the values of the circuit breakers to determine the
back-feed value.  We just calculated the circuit breaker size in step 1,
above.  Four inverters means four 40 amp circuit breakers, therefore: 4 * 40
= 160.  

3. In systems with panelboards
connected in series, the rating of the first overcurrent
device directly connected to the output of a utility interactive
inverter(s) shall be used in the calculations for
all busbars and conductors.

Therefore the designer must use 160 amps as the total back-feed value for
all panels and feeders in series all the way back to the service.

Mark, I would really appreciate it if you could reply today with any
information I am missing.  I could use my new-found knowledge to modify the
permit application I am submitting tomorrow morning.

Sincerely,

William Miller

PS:  I used to think, erroneously, that I need only consider the actual
maximum AC amperage from a given inverter.  Some time ago I bid on and
started a job based on that fallacy.  Mid-way into the job the AHJ informed
me that my calculations were incorrect, that I needed to use the breaker
value.  This job used SB6000 inverters and the value required was 40 amps.
I researched this thoroughly and discovered they were right.  In order to
comply with 690.640(B), I had to downgrade the main breaker at my own
expense.  The breaker was not inexpensive, so this is a lesson I learned the
hard way.

This is why I am very interested in any knowledge that might prove otherwise
in this scenario.

Wm


At 10:36 AM 1/22/2012, you wrote:



William,

The SMA6000 @ 240V has an AC output rating of 25A. 4 times 25 times 1.25
equals 125 A. If the solar accumulation panel is a dedicated load center,
then the load center, feeder and feeder breaker need only be rated to 125 A.
If the dedicated load center is located in the same building as the service,
then the dedicated load center can be main lug without main breaker. If the
dedicated load center is located on a buidling remote from the the service,
then it will need a main breaker rated at 125A.

 
Mark Frye
Berkeley Solar Electric Systems
303 Redbud Way
Nevada City,  CA 95959
(530) 401-8024
www.berkeleysolar.com   

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of William
Miller
Sent: Sunday, January 22, 2012 10:20 AM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Paralleling Multiple Inverter

Rich:

Here is the first consideration you might want to make:  You state a value
of 100 Amps for this system, which I assume is the maximum AC output at 240
VAC (25 Amps) times four inverters.  The value of 25 amps per inverter is
irrelevant to your design, however.  You must take the 25 amps times 1.25
(for continuous duty) which means your required breaker is 40 amps (unless
you can find 35 amps breakers).  40 Amps is the relevant value.  40 times 4
equals 160 amps.  Therefore, f

[RE-wrenches] Paralleling Mutlitple Inverter

[Rich Nicol]

Good Morning Wrenches,

I'm wondering if anyone has an advice on preferred methods and
component/panel recommendations for paralleling multiple inverters. The
proposed system will utilize 4 SMA6000 inverters (100 amps) and will be a
ground mounted system with inverters located outdoors in the cold frigid
temperatures of Vermont in a farmer's field so the panel where we complete
the parallel connections needs to be outdoor rated (although it will be
sheltered from the worst of the elements). It will be a standalone system
with a dedicated utility power drop/meter for the system. My understanding
of using a load center in this applications is that the 120% rule will apply
as it does in a typical installation per NEC690.64(B)(2)with the bus amp
rating for the load center based upon the inverter feed side as well as the
over current device on the utility side. 

Any input regarding preferred panels and configuration is appreciated.

Thanks

Rich 

 

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Metal roofs

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Ian
I second Daryl's suggestion of Ecofasten products. They have high quality
solutions and are great at offering support to work through challenging
installs.
Thanks
Rich 


-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
penobscotso...@midmaine.com
Sent: Tuesday, November 22, 2011 2:03 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Metal roofs

Ian,
   We have been using this companies products for the last couple of years
on different types of metal roofs with success (so far). Look at the
variety of products they have for different roofing:

http://www.ecofastensolar.com/our-products/eco-series

Daryl DeJoy
NABCEP Certified PV installer
Penobscot Solar Design




> Wrenches.
> I have a nuts and bolts question concerning preferred attachment methods
> on
> metal roofs that do not have standing seams. Obviously any seam presents
> the opportunity to use a product like S-5!, and I have also used their
> product on corrugated roofs. But on roofs with either a hexagonal shaped
> ridge or just a single ridge I have seen products at the shows but have
> slightly less familiarity with them.
> Any thoughts & insight would be very much appreciated.
> Take care,
> Ian
>
> --
> *Ian Eastman *| Installation/Project Management
> *GO SOLAR!*
> *Cell: 307.413.6789*  .  *i...@creativeenergies.biz*
> * **Creative Energies*
>  *Victor, ID *office 208.354.3001
> Lander, WY office*  *307.332.3410* 
> *Salt Lake City, UT office 801.487.6489
> * *www.CreativeEnergies.biz 
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[RE-wrenches] Module Load Rating

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Wrenches -

I've noticed discrepancies in load rating methods for various modules and
wondered if there was any insight from the installer community.  REC claims
113 PSF, Sharp claims only 50PSF. Solarworld notes 50PSF load rating, but
113 PSF snow load rating. I'm assuming the difference is that snow load
rating is greater because its assumed to be widely distributed, but yet its
still per square foot so perhaps not.  Is a Sharp module such as the
240NUQ-240F2 as durable as REC, Evergreen, Solarworld etc and they are just
more honest in their portrayal of load rating.

Thanks for your help,

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Gary Willett
Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 4:33 PM
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] interrupting current calculations used to
determine the interrupting of the AC equipment.

 

James:

I believe your PE is referring to the short circuit current calculations of
110.10, and the 110.24 marking requirements for AFC (Available Fault
Current). The utility company should be able to give you the AFC at the
secondary of their transformer, or better yet - at the service equipment.

The short circuit current rating of the utilization equipment, and the AIC
(Available Interrupting Current) rating of the OCPD in the utilization
equipment, must exceed the AFC.

Regards,

Gary Willett, PE







From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of James
Rudolph
Sent: Monday, October 03, 2011 1:54 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: [RE-wrenches] interrupting current calculations used to determine
the interrupting of the AC equipment.

 

Dearest Wenches,

I received an e-mail from PE reviewing one of our projects to build, and
this is what they wrote-

No interrupting current calculations were included.  It is suggested the
utility company be consulted for available at the service entrance and these
values be used to determine the interrupting of the AC equipment.

Does any one out there have experience dealing with this issue, or have the
ability to shed some light on this subject.

Many thanks in advance,

-- 
James B Rudolph
NABCEP Certified PV Installer









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[RE-wrenches] Ground Faults and Designing PV systems for lightning prone areas

[Rich Nicol]

Hi Wrenches

Is there a connection between lightening strikes and ground fault fuses
popping? Can lightening strikes energize the grounding electrode and thereby
pop a ground fault fuse? 

Thanks for your input,

Rich

 

From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Darryl
Thayer
Sent: Monday, September 12, 2011 10:39 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Designing PV systems for lightning prone areas

 

Lightening has a high voltage and HIgh current and High frequency.  The
lightening has gathered it energy over a large area, It has either picked up
electrons or lost electrons to generate this large Potential The electrons
want to return to the earth, So you do not want that path to be through your
equipment.  

1) ESTABILSH A GOOD GROUND ROD ( i had a system that had blown up about 3
times, I drove a 3/4" sectioned ground rod 80' and then drove another about
20  feet away.  Tied the two together and to the frames of my modules.  Then
I took aand connected to the module conductors, using a MOV similar to what
Midnight solar sells.  The system is in a higher relative area, this I did
in 2003 it has never blown up since   

 

From: James Rudolph 
To: RE-wrenches 
Sent: Friday, September 9, 2011 11:32 AM
Subject: [RE-wrenches] Designing PV systems for lightning prone areas


Dear Wrenches,

Does anybody have any best practices for designing large PV arrays on metal
building in lightning prone areas? Lightning arrestors on the DC side and
Surge suppressors on the AC load side? Any input or resources would be
greatly appreciated.

Sunny Regards,
 
James Rudolph
NABCEP Certified Installer
Master Electrician
SF Energy

 

 

 


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Re: [RE-wrenches] PV powered music festival

[Rich Nicol]

I think its CV Solar that does the Solarfest system. http://www.cvsolar.com/
Thanks
Rich

-Original Message-
From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of
wire...@gmail.com
Sent: Wednesday, April 27, 2011 8:06 PM
To: RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] PV powered music festival

Ask SolarFest in Vermont how they did it. 

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry

-Original Message-
From: boB Gudgel 
Sender: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.orgDate: Wed, 27 Apr 2011
16:56:53 
To: RE-wrenches
Reply-To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] PV powered music festival

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[RE-wrenches] 2 volt Trojan RE series L16 Batteries

[Rich Nicol]

RE Wrenches

My question regards a system (installed by homeowner / friend) where they
recently upgraded their t105 battery bank to Trojan RE series L16 2 volt
cells.  The battery bank consists of 6 batteries in series for a 12 volt
system.  The interconnects are 12" long 4/0 cables with crimped and soldered
lugs.  Main cables are 6' long 4/0 cables. 

The first issue is high terminal temperature during periods of heavy draw
(~100 amps @ 12v when water pump is on).  Due to the issue the owner has
been only running the water pump when charging the batteries with his
generator since the transfer switch on the Outback inverter has transferred
his household circuits from the battery bank to the generator.  Obviously
this is an inconvenience. Before the end of life on his T105's he had no
issues with the 6 volt cells in series/parallel using only #2 AWG
interconnects.

Most recently he's experienced an issue where the inverter will not come on
at all and when attempted to come by switching on his main DC breaker  the
voltage at the batteries sags from 12.5 to ~5V!  This issue is not with the
inverter since I loaned him a back up Trace DR I keep around as a loaner but
it too would not come on and voltage sagged as well.  This sag is with no
demand since it sags immediately when the DC breaker is switched on when
connected to the inverter even though the inverter has not been switched on.


I stopped by this AM to check out the situation, specific gravity of all
cells is good, open circuit voltage on each cell is matched at 2.12  volts.
The battery bank is only about 4 months old.

Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

 

Battery specs:

2 volt, Rated Capacity @ 5 Hr rate=909 AH, 20 hr rate = 1110 AH, 100 hr rate
= 1235.

 

Thanks for your help!

Rich 

 

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[RE-wrenches] Pole Mounts - Frost/Conduit & Ledge

[Rich Nicol]

Hi RE-Wrenches

1.   When installing pole mounts I have been running conduit into the
side of the foundation and up the pole prior to pouring concrete.  The
conduit enters the foundation ~ 18" to 24" below grade level.  We live in an
area where frost depths are around 48" deep.  I have been told by folks in
the construction industry that frost will not be problem with the conduit
entry but I remain concerned that the conduit may be lifted, while the
foundation which runs to below the frost depth, remains stationary thereby
breaking the conduit.  Any insights?

 

2.   Secondly, does anyone have experience with ledge in respect to pole
mounts.  I know the answer is to consult an engineer, but I thought I would
bring it up to the experienced folks in the trade first.  I have two mounts
scheduled for this spring where I expect to hit ledge.  The first is a TPM
with six 230 watt modules and the second is with eight 230 watt modules.
I'm expecting ledge to be relatively close to grade level, perhaps around 12
to 24" deep.  Ledge in these locations is solid (generally granite,
sometimes gneiss or basalt).  My initial thought is to form a larger
rectangular foundation with pins drilled at 45 deg angles into the ledge and
tied to the reinforcing within the foundation.  A wide base on the pole
would then be bolted to the foundation.  Any recommendations?

 

Thanks

Rich

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