[RE-wrenches] CTs to trigger a high current disconnect

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi Wrenches,
   Such an honor to address you gurus with this question.  I need to
monitor current on wires (split phase 240v) and if the current reaches a
predetermined limit, let's say 100A, or 200A - I need a programmable
meter/device that can trigger a 12v relay when current reaches the
threshold. Thank you
-- 

David Quattro
CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] mounting to a foam roof

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

ProSolar posts bolted directly to the wood decking and into rafters. they
make several different post-heights. Roofers can easily waterproof
cylindrical penetrations.  the owners need to decide how many inches of
foam thickness



On Fri, Oct 25, 2024 at 3:18 PM jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> I have a job that the customer just told me they are going to get their
> roof foamed which fortunately I found out before I was installing the
> mounts/panels.
>
> It’s currently a metal roof, low pitch 5-10 degrees.
> Metal over battens over plywood.
>
> They want more insulation, it’s not clear how much but 4-8” probably and
> then probably some kind of covering on top of that, not sure what type
> yet.
>
> How are people mounting to this?  It’s only going to be 4 panels in
> landscape so as to keep it as low a profile as possible.
>
> And no mounting on the ground isn’t an option.
>
> thanks in advance,
>
> jay
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Nice wedge

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Agreed 100.   Pitch hopper is the real deal



On Fri, Oct 18, 2024 at 6:13 PM MD Electric & Solar via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Yes, my guys love them! Just makes being on the roof a little easier.
> Mike
>
> On Fri, Oct 18, 2024 at 6:01 PM Nicholas Ponzio via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Have any of you tried these things? They look pretty handy, if they
>> work...
>>
>> https://www.thepitchhopper.com/
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>
> --
> Michael D Nelson
> MD Electric & Solar Inc.
> Office: 707-412-3181
> Cell: 707-684-0064
> www.mdelectricsolar.com
> www.facebook.com/mdelectricandsolar
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] sol ark battery

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I’ve had good experience with Homegrid so far.




> > On Oct 9, 2024, at 11:32 AM, jay via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
> >
> > HI All
> >
> >
> > Wondering what people are using for lithium  battery and sol ark?
> >
> > And no, LA is not a option for this system.
> >
> > Outdoor rated would be preferred, heated isn’t needed.
> >
> > thanks in advance
> >
> > jay
> >
> >
> >
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Re: [RE-wrenches] UL3741

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

This is an excellent explanation of many aspects of 3741.
https://youtu.be/mgD0O9WfKVU?si=-SRdLuTd4XGDToKp
At the NABCEP conference in Raleigh earlier this year, there were
popular presentations about 3741.
   I think it can be a great solution for some small commercial, but not
for residential.



On Tue, Oct 8, 2024 at 12:41 PM Dave Tedeyan via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi Lou,
>
> It looks like Ironridge with the Midnite's MNSSR-600S-SS and some Solis
> Inverters (or Tesla) are compatible. But that is all I know of off the top
> of my head.
> https://www.ironridge.com/2024/02/27/flush-mount-systems-listed-to-ul-3741/
>
> I have not actually pursued this yet, but would be curious to hear if
> others have and whether they like it.
>
> Cheers,
> Dave
>
> On Tue, Oct 8, 2024 at 3:01 PM Lou Russo via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Hello Wrenches,
>>
>> We are researching UL3741 and NEC2020s Photovoltaic Hazard Control
>> System. Whether it is safe or not is a discussion for another time.
>>
>> After digging around a bunch it does not seem to be really geared toward
>> us residential (grid-tied and off-grid) and small commercial installers.
>> But I wanted to connect with folks who know the landscape better than us
>> before we disregard it for the foreseeable future.
>>
>> UL3741 listed racking systems and solar panels are not the limiting
>> factor, as there are enough manufacturers listed that we use regularly and
>> can get easily. It appears that Midnite's MNSSR-600S-SS may be a good path
>> for us as it has been tested with the Sol-Ark15k but from what I can tell
>> not to UL3741 standards.
>>
>> It seems the short list of compliant inverters with a compliant racking
>> system using Midnite's MNSSR-600S-SS is what would hold us back. As we
>> don't actively use any of the listed inverters.
>>
>> Has anyone heard from inverter manufacturers that are actively working
>> with a racking company on getting UL3741 or if they EVEN  want to pursue it
>> (besides Tesla, Solis, SMA, GrowWatt)?Specifically battery based hybrid
>> inverters or charge controllers. I can't seem to find any.
>>
>> Thank you for your input.
>>
>> Aloha,
>>
>> Lou Russo
>> Owner
>> l...@spreesolarsystems.com
>> Office - 808 345 6762
>> Spree Solar Systems LLC
>> CT-34322
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] favortie micro inverters?

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I used Chilicon on a couple installs, and Enphase is far better.





On Mon, Sep 23, 2024 at 9:05 PM greg egan via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Good intel.  I believe their micros are rated to -40C/F.  If they quit
> working at that temp it would be okay as long as they start back up when
> if warms up.  Normally when it's that cold the sun is pretty scarce at
> this latitude.
>
> Greg Egan
> Remote Power Inc.
> Fairbanks, AK
>
> On 9/23/2024 7:47 PM, MDElectricSolar wrote:
> > Been around forever, good tech support, the products have been improved
> and refined, easy to install, good monitoring platform. Not sure how they
> would fare in Alaskan winters though…
> >
> > Maybe an sma installed indoors?
> >
> > Michael D Nelson
> > MD Electric & Solar, Inc.
> > 707-684-0064 mobile
> > 707-884-1862 office
> > www.mdelectricsolar.com
> > www.facebook.com/mdelectricandsolar
> >
> >
> >> On Sep 23, 2024, at 8:41 PM, greg egan  wrote:
> >>
> >> Michael, thank you.  Any particular reason you like them best?
> >>
> >>
> >> Greg Egan
> >> Remote Power Inc.
> >> Fairbanks, AK
> >>
> >>> On 9/23/2024 7:29 PM, MDElectricSolar wrote:
> >>> Enphase…
> >>>
> >>> Michael D Nelson
> >>> MD Electric & Solar, Inc.
> >>> 707-684-0064 mobile
> >>> 707-884-1862 office
> >>> www.mdelectricsolar.com
> >>> www.facebook.com/mdelectricandsolar
> >>>
> >>>
> > On Sep 23, 2024, at 7:30 PM, greg egan via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>  Esteemed wrenches,
> 
>  Have a client that is grid connected (not my usual client) and
> looking to do solar without back up.  Has shading issues so I'm thinking
> micros would work best for this application, plus take care of rapid shut
> down without needing extra devices/wiring.  Problem is I have not ever
> installed micros.
> 
>  Any recommendations on brands /models that have been reliable? Decent
> tech support?  Customer just wants something that works and is relatively
> simple to navigate the online monitoring.  Probably 4-5 kW so not a huge
> system.
> 
>  Thanks in advance, I appreciate it!
> 
>  Greg Egan
>  Remote Power Inc.
>  Fairbanks, AK
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Re: [RE-wrenches] ATS Brand Recommendations

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Nice.  I’ve considered using a little jump battery once or twice but still
haven’t had to.
I put on my calendar ~3 years replace all gen-start FLA batteries
because the consequences of them going dead are pretty bad.  Curious if you
guys think 3 years is a good rule of thumb.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] ATS Brand Recommendations

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

   I have had good experience with Kohler transfer switches but only the
simpler RDT models should be used in conjunction with a complex custom
system.
   (Kohler’s cheaper RXT models require a keep-alive signal from a Kohler
generator)
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Re: [RE-wrenches] ATS Brand Recommendations

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I have a system with Generac ATS where Grid is Primary source, SolArk
Critical Load is secondary source.  And whole home is the Load out of the
ATS.
Generator feeds in to the SolArk Gen terminals.  KOHLER generator
(2-wire auto start) engages only when the SolArk tells it to, programmed by
me at a low batt voltage.
   12vdc to the ATS control board comes from a 120 to 12 standard power
supply from the critical loads, which effectively is ‘always on’
Not sure if this can work in your application but after we got the
kinks out we’ve had no problems




On Fri, Sep 20, 2024 at 11:34 AM August Goers via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi Sam -
>
> It's been probably 6 or 8 years since I've selected a 3rd party automatic
> transfer switch, but we used to use Briggs & Stratton products with good
> results:
>
>
> https://energy.briggsandstratton.com/na/en_us/homeowners/products/standby-generators/transfer-switches-and-accessories.html
>
> At least at the time, these had internal circuitry to do the transfer
> between grid and offgrid operation with a pre-programmed delay of about 10
> or 20 seconds. We paired these frequently with Sunny Islands.
>
> Now that the major ESS manufacturers have Microgrid Interconnect Devices
> (MIDs) for their systems, we don't have any reason to use these.
>
> Best,
>
> August
> Luminalt
>
>
> On Fri, Sep 20, 2024 at 7:35 AM Sam Haraldson via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Wrenches,
>>
>> We are primarily a grid-tied solar EPC but like many solar companies have
>> a long history with small off-grid installations.  In the past few years we
>> have been tackling a handful of large, complex, grid-tied battery-backup
>> systems (sub 90 kwh) range with some working flawlessly and some plagued
>> with weekly quirks.  A weak link we've found in two of these installations
>> was our choice to use Generac Automatic Transfer Switches.  In order for
>> this ATS to sense a grid outage and perform its transfer it relies on
>> circuitry built into a Generac generator as well as a source of 12v power
>> (typically the generator start battery).
>>
>> One of our sites doesn't have a generator at all and the other does, but
>> the grid sensing circuitry in the ATS is bypassed as we want the Sol-Arks
>> to be the first-line of power during an outage and not the generator.  In
>> order to accomplish this our electrician designed custom circuitry for grid
>> sensing which is powered by a separate 12v source, has a 10 second delay,
>> and flips the transfer switch during an outage placing the loads under the
>> control of the Sol-Arks.
>>
>> Our initial design for these systems did not take into consideration that
>> a Generac ATS doesn't have its own "brains" to grid sense and since we are
>> now relying on a small custom circuit and a small external 12v power supply
>> to act as a key player in an otherwise powerful and robust backup system we
>> are second guessing our equipment choice.  What ATS solutions are Wrenches
>> employing that we should be considering?
>>
>> TL;DR - what are the simplest ATS solutions that sense the grid
>> (frequency, voltage, et al) and self-switch between backup and grid power
>> automatically?
>>
>> Sincerely,
>> Sam
>>
>>
>> [image: OnSite Energy]
>> 
>>
>> SAM HARALDSON
>> Operations Specialist
>> (406) 551-6135
>> 1515 N. Rouse Ave Bozeman, MT 59715
>> 
>> Locally owned and operated since 2012
>> [image: B Corporation] 
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark 15K AC Coupling

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Sorry I just noticed that you’re dealing with 15Ks.  My scenario was with a
12K
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark 15K AC Coupling

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

last year SolArk tech support told me only the Gen ports have the freq/volt
modulation, and only when you program the master “AC Couple on GEN”
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Re: [RE-wrenches] discover lithium warranty issues.

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

   If a manufacturer decides to pettifog over a property being sold in
order to escape warranty obligation.. yikes!  no thanks

On Mon, Aug 19, 2024 at 3:04 PM Maverick Brown via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Luke
>
> I appreciate the follow up.
>
> And as a/an FLA/AGM to Lithium upgrader with many of my customers and
> having deployed Discover batteries myself,  I will remember your “joy” and
> take notes. Lots of choices to be made. And I have notes on the customers /
> batteries and results.
>
> Companies will stand by their products or they won’t. Let’s contribute and
> make sure our customers are taken care of and even our own homes where we
> have all these test systems.
>
> Let the games begin.
>
> Okay. I know. They already started. ;-)
>
> Thank you,
>
> Maverick
>
> 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 Aug 19, 2024, at 4:49 PM, Luke Christy via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Dave- following up on this-
>
> Point taken-  but I still reserve the right to be annoyed when a
> high-priced, properly-set-up, top tier product with a 10-year warranty
> fails in under three years and the case ends up in a warranty exception
> loophole with no joy.
> I’ll get over it though.
>
>
> Luke Christy
> 719-588-3044
>
>
>
> On Aug 15, 2024, at 12:08 PM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Being from Manufacturing I just disagree that warranty should pass on to a 
> different owner. (Unless in writing)
> Too much chance for failure with a new owner.
>
> We do want these folks to stay in business right?  Batteries are hard enough 
> in residential when doing everything correct.
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
>https://offgridsolar1.com/ 
>   
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
> On 2024-08-15 10:57 am, Luke Christy via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> I also have had a poor experience with Discover's warranty.
> I installed 3x 7.4kWh AES batteries for an off-grid customer in 2020. I
> registered  the warranty for all three within a few weeks of installation.
> Fast forward to 2023, the original customer sold the property and the new
> owner asked me out to troubleshoot a storage issue. One battery had failed
> to due a faulty BMS. Discover refused to honor the warranty because the
> property had changed hands (they tie the warranty to the original
> registered owner), and the new owner was stuck buying a new battery.
>
> Discover did offer the replacement at a slightly discounted price but I
> thought it was lousy to find out that a 10-year warranty product suddenly
> has no warranty if the property is ever sold. It really turned me off, and
> I was left with the  feeling that I might have had better luck getting a
> warranty replacement if I had never registered the batteries at all.
>
>
> Luke Christy
> Renewable energy consultant
>
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional™:
>
> Solar Gain Services, LLC
> PO Box 531
> Monte Vista, CO 81144
> sgsrenewables@gmail
>
> On Aug 15, 2024, at 9:49 AM, jay via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Hi All,
>
> I have an installer  buddy where i used to live who's having to try and
> get a discover lithium warrantied.
>
> Its 3 yrs old, 2 years installed.
>
> The dealer is closed, and the customer doesn't have the POP.
>
> Discover is being very difficult.
>
> The battery appears to have a dead cell block which makes trying to get
> info out of the battery all but impossible as it won't stay on long enough
> to download the info.
>
> Does anyone have a contact who could help my  installer/friend  with this
> issue?
>
> thanks
>
> Jay
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Portable systems

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I have two Jackery units and both are great. small 500W and the other is
either 2 or 3kW

On Fri, Aug 16, 2024 at 2:55 PM Hilton Dier, III via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I've got someone asking me about a portable system. It really doesn't have
> to be that portable. They just need a couple of kWh to back up their pellet
> stove for a day. There are loads of battery-and-inverter-in-a-box systems
> out there, but I have no idea about the quality of components. Does anybody
> have experience with any of these systems and have any recommendations?
>
> Many thanks,
>
> Hilton Dier
>
> Missisquoi River Hydro LLC
> Renewable Energy Design
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Neutral run to critical loads sub-panel

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Definitely best practice to do so, in fact probably not safe as it’s wired
now.  I know some inverters won’t work at all with “neutral loops” and are
sophisticated enough to feel it, and stop inversion until the electrician
fixes it




On Tue, Jul 30, 2024 at 5:48 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> See 300.3(B). I think that's what you are looking for.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>
> On Mon, Jul 29, 2024 at 11:53 PM William Miller via RE-wrenches
>  wrote:
> >
> > Friends:
> >
> >
> >
> > I found a grid-tie battery-backup system with a 120/240 VAC critical
> loads sub-panel that has no neutral run to it.  All of the 120 VAC loads
> have their neutrals land in the meter panel.
> >
> >
> >
> > I have always felt instinctively that the neutrals should land in the
> breaker panel that feeds the circuit.  I have looked through the NEC to
> find a passage that spells this out but I can seem to find one.
> >
> >
> >
> > Is this a code requirement?  Is this recommended practice?
> >
> >
> >
> > Thanks in advance.
> >
> >
> >
> > William Miller
> >
> >
> >
> > Miller Solar
> >
> > 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422
> >
> > 805-438-5600
> >
> > www.millersolar.com
> >
> > CA Lic. 773985
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark with 800A Service

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi Chris,  I’ve asked them if they are compatible with rope CTs and they
aren’t….   Please share the solution you arrive at, as I know I’ll need to
repeat it soon.

David
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark 15k solar panel frame grounding

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

in their installation manuals, SolArk indicates black and red colors for PV
conductors.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark Support

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Today they tried launching their monitoring migration from Inteless/PVPro
to Mysolark/solarkcloud.com
I had several sites throwing multiple bogus error codes and concerned
homeowners calling my staff all morning.
SolArk tech support probably drowning in that
Error codes::
F49  Backup_Battery_Fault
F51  Battery_TempHigh
F53  AC_B_InductCurr_DcHigh_Fault
F54  AC_C_InductCurr_DcHigh_Fault
F57  AC backfeed fault

On Wed, Jun 5, 2024 at 10:41 AM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Is anyone else having trouble getting through to Sol-Ark support?
> Howie Michaelson
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[RE-wrenches] REC modules - review?

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi everyone,
  Does anyone have positive or negative experience with REC modules?
Specifically failure rate, and how the company acts when an RMA is
necessary. Thank you

David Quattro

CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 120 Vac and 12Vdc mixed distribution system

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I think SolArk makes an 8K 120V-only version
David




On Fri, May 3, 2024 at 3:13 PM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> For this application I was originally thinking about a 48V inverter with
> 120V output, but there are not many options in the size range I was
> considering. It hit me that I could potentially get a 120/240V split-phase
> inverter and run the DC converter from one leg and the 120V loads from the
> other leg. The Sol-Ark 8K would probably be the right size for this
> application. Despite there being no 240V loads, they "could" add them in
> the future if needed. I know about imbalance issues with the 12k, but have
> not heard this same feedback about the 8k, so please let me know if you
> know otherwise.
>
> I really doubt there will be enough imbalance here to cause issues. The
> biggest load on the DC side is a tiny 12V DC pump and the largest load on
> the AC side will be the new refrigerator, or maybe a big ceiling fan
> starting up. The inductive loads are almost negligible. Really the only
> reason I want an inverter this large is for the charger capacity. The owner
> wants a 9.6kWh LiPo battery minimum, so I want a sizable charger.
>
> BUT, the client would need to replace their 120V portable generator with a
> split-phase unit. That could be a sticking point taking me back to a 120V
> inverter.
>
> I was hoping for an all-in-one for this particular job, but the only one I
> can find that is 48Vdc and 120Vac is the EG4 6500EX-48. At the price point
> they offer it, I guess it can't hurt to try! I can even have a spare on the
> shelf for less in total than the cost of a Victron inverter charger and
> separate charge controller, and still have money to spare. I have been
> dabbling into the EG4 brand, mostly with clients that went ahead and bought
> EG4 batteries before they ever met me, and I haven't had any real issues
> other than battery to inverter closed loop comms. It's too early to say I'm
> impressed, but the prices are in the too-good-to-be-true category. I don't
> want to get off topic here with batteries and manufacturer reliability, but
> I wanted to mention the EG4 6500EX-48, which seems like perfect specs for
> this job.
>
>
> And... I know... someone is probably thinking that we're up to a 9.6kWh
> battery with a small 120V generator, and that's probably not a good match.
> I get that, but the client expects the PV to handle all of their needs with
> the generator only serving as an emergency backup. I have alerted them to
> the potential mismatch. I still want a sizeable charger in case they
> upgrade their generator for faster battery recharges.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>
>
> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 1:52 PM John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Jason,
>>   Just using the converter works fine. They are considered a battery
>> charger or a regulated power supply. I am currently running that way now
>> with the battery cables going nowhere.  I was thinking of putting the
>> battery back in the system just for triple redundancy when my inverter hits
>> low battery cutoff voltage on a cold winter night and no fuel for the
>> generator (or it won't start).
>> My Iota DLS puts out a regulated 13.4 volts up to 30 amps.
>>
>> John
>>
>> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 8:25 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Ah ha! I didn't consider using a small 12V battery with a charger. I was
>>> thinking of just using a 120V -> 12V converter to handle the DC loads. Is
>>> the 12V battery really necessary, or can I just power the DC loads directly
>>> with a converter? If I just have lights and fans on the DC system, the load
>>> should be pretty minimal.
>>>
>>> I could use a separate 12V battery, but I would like to eliminate that
>>> cost and complexity if possible.
>>>
>>>
>>> And yeah, I am not considering this a money making opportunity. It's
>>> really just a challenge to ward off boredom from the daily grind.
>>>
>>
>>> Jason Szumlanski
>>> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
>>> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
>>> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
>>> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>>>
>>>
>>> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 8:01 AM John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
>>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>>
 Jason,
   I have a customer with the same situation except he already has a 12
 V VFX inverter,  He has a sunfrost fridge and other small loads with a very
 fancy custom control board
 originally set up to handle AC and DC systems.  We are adding a lot
 more solar and I was considering a dual battery system but the owner didn't
 like that idea.  We

Re: [RE-wrenches] Anybody else caught up with the Lumos urgent recall?

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

 wow.   Sounds like a class action lawsuit if they’re not careful.  I’ve
never heard of any module manufacturer pay for lost production, but they
need to cover parts and labor or they will be sued, and they will lose.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] midnite new inverter

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

OK thanks for the correction. It's confusing to me because the external
chassis is identical
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Re: [RE-wrenches] midnite new inverter

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I have not installed an Fortress yet, but I know they are made by Deye
(same Chinese original manufacturer as SolArk inverters)
Here is a link for an excellent instructional by Steve Higgins @ Rolls -
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RJqBULN9MgI&pp=ygUWcm9sbHMgc3VycmV0dGUgaGlnZ2lucw%3D%3D
This assumes that Envy comes with the same programming shortcoming as
SolArk, I don't know. In order to effectively use a SolArk with lead acid
batteries you have trick it. This process takes several iterations checking
specific gravity, which means multiple site visits stretched over perhaps a
couple months. The Absorb setting is ineffectual, so Steve's solution is to
employ the Equalize setting to actually achieve Absorption. Carefully
record the settings (voltage, duration, and frequency) that deliver a
consistent specific gravity in range.  On the rare occasions you actually
need to equalize, you do it in person. When equalization is complete you
return the settings back to your curated values.



On Wed, Apr 10, 2024 at 7:28 AM jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Can you explain what changes the eg4 18 inverter has vs the Envy as to LA
> programming?
>
> To me the Envy has a big advantage due to it having AGS warm up/cool down
> that the EG4 does not.
>
> Jay
>
>
>
>
>
> On Apr 10, 2024, at 7:49 AM, Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> John,
> If you are thinking of pairing the Envy with lead-acid batteries, I would
> strongly suggest not doing it. Even though Fortress sales advertises the
> Envy to be compatible with lead-acid, after trying it in my off-grid home,
> I would emphatically say that it is not. The programming is inadequate, to
> put it kindly. And their support really doesn't have a clue about lead-acid
> - Fortress support literally said that they don't recommend pairing the
> Envy with l-a. However, I don't have an opinion about how it does with
> closed loop Li batteries.
> I did recently install an EG4 18k system, off-grid, with the client's
> knowledge that this was a bit of an experiment for me. Both the Envy and
> the EG4 are made by LuxPower and have been, to date, physically and
> programmatically almost identical. I had stayed away from EG4 since it
> seemed to be primarily aimed at the DIY market. However, the 18k appears to
> be a serious contender so far, although this installation is a fairly low
> stress situation. I've been fairly impressed with the system.   While this
> 18k is paired with EG4 Lithium batteries, EG4 has been making adjustments
> to the firmware to make it much more friendly to lead-acid. If you decide
> to go this route, check with EG4 (installer support - ask for Jarrett or
> Colt) to see where they are at with upgrading the firmware.
> I am also eagerly awaiting Midnite's AIO entry...
>
> Howie
>
>
> On Wed, Apr 10, 2024 at 9:02 AM John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Time will tell where the failure modes are.   I still don't like all the
>> eggs in one basket. Do you have to send the units back for repair?  Had
>> enough of that with Trace SW series inverters..
>> For off grid, I'll stick to the tried and true for now.  For Grid tie it
>> is just a financial hit.  For off-grid power loss it is more important
>> to deal with right away..
>>
>> I am going to try a Fortress Envy at my off grid home but will keep my
>> Outback field repairable VFXR wired in just in case. I had a massive
>> lightning strike between my house and a guest cabin 1/4 mile away and I
>> lost power from my Fortress Eflex battery at the cabin and my Outback
>> inverter at my house.  I replaced the control board on my inverter ( I
>> always keep one in reserve as it is usually the only board failure due to
>> lightning)  and was back on line in 1/2 hour and Fortress rushed me a new
>> BMS board for the E-flex and a day later and a half hour swap had it back
>> in service,  Now it is a different story with 2 Simpliphi batteries I have
>> from a customer that failed.  I have to ship them to California to have
>> them evaluated to see if we had damaged them by misuse.  Lots of expense
>> and time lost.
>>
>>
>>
>> John Blittersdorf
>> CV Wind Service / Off Grid Vermont
>> 802-770-8625
>>
>> On Tue, Apr 9, 2024 at 11:43 PM Scot Arey via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Wow, are we in the golden age of inverter/chargers? If it had 200-a.p
>>> pass thru it would be near perfect.
>>>
>>> Begs the question: are stand alone charge controllers becoming a
>>> historical artifact?
>>>
>>> Howard "Scot" Arey
>>> Owner, Solar CenTex
>>> 254-300-1228
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Plaques

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Generic stickers are easily gotten but site-specific placards are often
required. I recommend Tony :::
Tony Nguyen 
We send him a PDF doct and the size/font requirements. within a couple days
I receive a perfect red placard with white lettering, 3M sticky on the
back, at very reasonable pricing.  Tony Nguyen is the man.

David Quattro
CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com




On Sat, Mar 30, 2024 at 4:26 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I once got a trophy company to engrave some plaques and it was stupid
> expensive. ($50/ plaque)  Then I started using PV Labels.com, and their
> pricing is quite reasonable (under $10/ plaque).  Turn around time has
> always been quick too.  I'd have to be printing a lot of plaques for doing
> it in house to pencil out.  I'm not sure if it ever would, considering that
> you still have to pay yourself or someone else to operate the engraver, and
> the blank plaques probably cost a bit too.
>
> Ray Walters
> Remote Solar
> On 3/30/2024 12:56 PM, Lou Russo via RE-wrenches 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] Enohase tech support

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Jason, Very helpful. Thank you
I wonder why, after years of calling tech support, nobody at Enphase told
me the S is a replacement for the R.  it took a compatriot
installer/integrator to care enough.


On Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 2:51 PM Jason Szumlanski <
ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:

> Somehow I missed that you said it's an Envoy-S. Which lights are on? There
> are four, left to right:
>
>
>1. Cloud connected the Enphase Enlighten (normally green, red if WiFi
>connected but no Internet)
>2. Installer WiFi Access Point (normally off)
>3. All assigned micros producing power (normally green)
>4. All assigned micros communicating with Envoy (normally green)
>
>
> If the first light is red or off, it just needs to be reconnected to a
> working Wi-Fi network. The consumer can do that in their app (Menu |
> Settings | Connectivity). If it's off, it could be a number of things, but
> usually, the WiFi network is no longer available, or the Envoy has glitched
> out. Either way, reconnecting it usually works. Sometimes it can be a
> frustrating series of reboots to get it going. But the app will walk them
> through the steps.
>
> Enphase WILL help the consumer directly with this, but if they have
> directed the customer to their installer, either the customer
> is technology-challenged, or the Installer Toolkit is required to forget
> the original network and then reconnect to the new one (or the same one
> sometimes).
>
> One other thing... Some of those units may have been Cellular connected,
> and the 5-year data plan may have expired. Enphase can tell you how it was
> last connected with the serial number or site ID. That would be a good call
> to make before heading out there. The solution could be as simple as
> connecting it to their WiFi. Sometimes installers don't want the hassle of
> WiFi issues, so they just pop in a cellular modem. I have seen a number of
> national installers do that. It is not good practice. Ethernet is best and
> WiFi works well usually.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>
>
> On Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 2:12 PM jay via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Hi David.
>>
>> This one is a standard newer version Envoy S.
>>
>> I’ve had this exact same issue of tech “support” numerous times.  I had
>> to go to my neighbors to confirm that the panels were wired correctly,
>> after they had been installed for years.  I’m not making this up.
>>
>> Seems to really depend on who you get on the phone if they will help you
>> or not which isn’t good.
>>
>> Thats why I”m looking for any help to find the right phone number or
>> person who will/can help.
>>
>> I’m guessing its either the envoy needs to be rebooted or its broken.
>>
>> thanks
>>
>> jay
>>
>>
>>
>> On Mar 15, 2024, at 11:49 AM, david quattro 
>> wrote:
>>
>> wow, your experience is worse than anything I've ever heard of from
>> Enphase tech support. My experience with them is this: they know their old
>> Envoys are garbage (the M-Series are failing left and right now). The
>> executives made the decision that they will no longer manufacture new
>> M-Envoys. I don't know their posture regarding S-Series, I haven't seen
>> those fail yet. So instead of selling you a good brand new M-Envoy, they
>> try to connive you into replacing 100% of your microinverters with
>> IQ-Enphase - you know, because they are such a great, responsible company.
>>   Actual options moving forward are to find a used M-Series Envoy that
>> you have tested in-house before you go on your 5 hour drive. I have one I
>> can sell you. Or you deliver the bad news to the customer and tell them the
>> truth - they are flying blind without a functioning Envoy.  Ground mounts
>> aren't that bad since you could teach the customer to walk up and verify PV
>> current on each module with a decent meter.  For me essentially all of my
>> Enphase fleet went onto residential rooftops where regular access is not an
>> option. What kills me about Enphase is that every step of the way over the
>> last 15 years - EVERY single time they changed their inverter architecture,
>> they promised that all the new stuff would be backward compatible with old
>> gear. And every single time, they were full of it.
>>
>> On Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 9:49 AM Jay via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi all
>>>
>>> Is there anyway to get tech support with remote coms?
>>>
>>> I got a call just the other day from someone with an envoy. It’s stopped
>>> communicating to enohase. Enphase says they need the installer who’s now
>>> gone.
>>> They just won’t help the customer.
>>> It’s about a 5 hr round trip for me. Which is nuts as I’ll have to
>>> communicate with enohase anyway.
>>>
>>> And I’ve heard rhis exact issue multiple time

Re: [RE-wrenches] Enohase tech support

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

wow, your experience is worse than anything I've ever heard of from Enphase
tech support. My experience with them is this: they know their old Envoys
are garbage (the M-Series are failing left and right now). The executives
made the decision that they will no longer manufacture new M-Envoys. I
don't know their posture regarding S-Series, I haven't seen those fail yet.
So instead of selling you a good brand new M-Envoy, they try to connive you
into replacing 100% of your microinverters with IQ-Enphase - you know,
because they are such a great, responsible company.
  Actual options moving forward are to find a used M-Series Envoy that you
have tested in-house before you go on your 5 hour drive. I have one I can
sell you. Or you deliver the bad news to the customer and tell them the
truth - they are flying blind without a functioning Envoy.  Ground mounts
aren't that bad since you could teach the customer to walk up and verify PV
current on each module with a decent meter.  For me essentially all of my
Enphase fleet went onto residential rooftops where regular access is not an
option. What kills me about Enphase is that every step of the way over the
last 15 years - EVERY single time they changed their inverter architecture,
they promised that all the new stuff would be backward compatible with old
gear. And every single time, they were full of it.

On Fri, Mar 15, 2024 at 9:49 AM Jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi all
>
> Is there anyway to get tech support with remote coms?
>
> I got a call just the other day from someone with an envoy. It’s stopped
> communicating to enohase. Enphase says they need the installer who’s now
> gone.
> They just won’t help the customer.
> It’s about a 5 hr round trip for me. Which is nuts as I’ll have to
> communicate with enohase anyway.
>
> And I’ve heard rhis exact issue multiple times from numerous people. Envoy
> has lights but has stopped communicating. I’ve heard enohase tech say “the
> panels are wired wrong. “. You mean they magically changed after 10 years?
>
> Does anyone have a person/number etc of who will help them?
>
> Thanks
> Jay
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 30% ITC

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I thought the primary goal of the federal ITC was to address climate
change.
 Thus as a citizen of Earth, increased PV adoption is success
regardless of whatever financial implications arise from a taxpayer
perspective.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: $300 + transmission fee!

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi William,
 I’ve never done this but talked to the  electrical/electronic engineer
who did:: he took all the CT current, and voltage inputs and ran them into
a small cheap Linux PC, which was easy to find support and used a common
programming language. These guys only used it for a custom monitoring
platform.
 But as output from the computer, I think you could control a couple
relays that will force a transfer switch to change position, start a
generator, etc.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: $300 + transmission fee!

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Jay,  there are three major utilities in CA. I don’t know much about LADPW
nor SDGE.
 PGE executes demand charges depending on the ‘rate schedule’ applied
to a specific meter. Customers can request to change their rate schedule,
sometimes with significant financial savings just doing that.
   My understanding is that they go by 15 minute intervals for demand
charges. In fact if the demand exceeds the threshold for just 15 minutes,
the demand charge applies as if the load had been that high for the entire
month.
  Caveat: I’m more of an engineer than a policy and sales guy.
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[RE-wrenches] LG Battery charger instruction

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi Tom,
  a few years ago I decided to buy my own LG battery charger because we
needed the damn thing so often. Now I only use it once or twice per year,
because I stopped installing LG batteries. Here is the instruction I have
which works on my charger (same charger as the LG-sanctioned :: the
manufacturer is VOLTEQ and the model # is HY20010EX)

On the battery itself, you need to pop the black (aesthetic-only) cover off
the top of the battery.  Under there are several 10mm fasteners that hold
down the actual watertight cover. Inside there are some fuses - if any of
these fuses are blown, LG told me that the battery is toast and LG needs to
take it back and rebuild it. But if your fuses are good then you can
determine the positive and negative leads by red and black conductors.

* The RESU10H battery should be charged at 152 Volts.

*Instructions for Using Volteq DC Power Supply to Charge Batteries*

   1. Make sure the "O.V. Set" knob (second knob from the left) is set to
   the maximum setting before you begin.
   2. Turn the AC power on using the air switch in the back.
   3. Enable the output by pushing the green button to 'IN' position.
   4. Turn the current knob (the leftmost knob) to slightly above minimum
   so that the CV light is on.
   5. Use the two knobs on the right to set the voltage to desired level
   recommended by the battery manufacturer.
   6. Connect the battery to the back terminals, make sure the polarity is
   correct: + to + and - to -.
   7. Turn the current knob to maximum, or the desired current recommended
   by battery manufacturer.
   8. Watch the charging progress, when the current is below 1A or 1/10 of
   the maximum charging current, it is probably time to stop. Make sure the AC
   power never goes offline during the charging process.
   9. Stop the output using the green button, disconnect the battery from
   the power supply, and then turn off the power supply.

-- 

David Quattro
CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] No payment for Sunpower warranty service vendor credits?

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Yes SolArk can be programmed to sell the battery energy in specific time
windows

David Quattro
CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com




On Tue, Feb 13, 2024 at 3:37 PM Darryl Thayer via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Advice, please; I was about to purchase a SunPower inverter. Have other
> people been having problems?
> I cannot reach their support line with my questions. As many of you know,
> I am a small contractor. I have noticed a reluctance of solar equipment
> suppliers, both Outback and Sol-Ark, who have recently stopped answering my
> questions. I have sent many email questions to their support line without a
> response.  Two examples: can the Outback Radian do TOU? It can not! yet
> they assured me it could.  I asked for the possibility of a workaround, and
> their response was, to read the manual.
> Can the Sol-Ark do TOU this under my utility rules?  I think it could but
> I can not get them to confirm.  They also will not respond to my questions,
>
> On Tue, Feb 13, 2024 at 4:25 PM Solar Energy Solutions via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Hi Daniel,
>>
>> after three months of back-and-forth we have finally received a
>> replacement panel from SunPower and getting ready to affect repair. Are you
>> saying we are going to have a hard time getting compensated for our
>> services?
>>
>>
>> *Andrew Koyaanisqatsi*
>> *President*
>> *Solar Energy Solutions, Inc.*
>> *The BRIGHT CHOICE*
>>
>> *Since 1987,** helping you and your Portland neighbors move** towards an
>> environmentally sustainable future.*
>>
>> *503-238-4502www.SolarEnergyOregon.com
>> *
>>
>> On Feb 13, 2024, at 2:38 PM, Daniel via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>> 
>> If you are doing warranty work for Sunpower for non leased systems, you
>> may be like many other solar companies that are not getting vendor service
>> payments for the work you are doing.
>> If this sounds familiar to an experience you have or are having please
>> contact me.  I am trying to aggregate those that are having this experience
>> and see if we can get a larger collective force together and see if we can
>> move them for payments before they are extinct.
>> Thanks
>> Daniel
>>
>> Daniel Tittmann
>> Greenwired
>> www.greenwired.com
>> dan...@greenwired.com
>> 707-206-5088
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Automatic load control

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

SPAN Panel, or

you can try Generac 7006 automatic load shed device (100A)
https://apelectric.com/generac-7006-smart-management-module/
Or G7000 (50Amp)
I’ve heard they work with other inverters, not just GENERAC only, but of
course you’d have no warranty when mixing brands.
David



On Thu, Dec 14, 2023 at 6:36 PM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi all,
>
> I am trying to figure out best options to control loads in a  Sol-Ark15k
> battery backup residential system.  It's been quite a few years since I've
> set up an automatic load control, and never with a Sol-Ark. The Sol-Ark
> will output to the main breaker panel, so no separate "backed up" panel -
> all house loads will likely be on the Sol-Ark's load side.
>
> What do folks like to use in this type of circumstance to automatically
> shed loads when the grid is down,  either sequentially as the battery bank
> drops down or more simply triggered by loss of grid? Are they pieces of
> equipment that work specifically with the Sol-Ark?
> I'd also be open to considering Fortress's Envy, if there is an option
> that would work well specifically with it.
> I'm interested in the range of options from simple to complicated, as long
> as it is automated.  All automated ideas/options appreciated.
> Thanks!
> Howie Michaelson
> Sun Catcher
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Question

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I’m not familiar with Outback defaults but most inverters I’ve dealt with
have a grid tolerance of 10% +/-  so 216 to 264VAC.



On Mon, Oct 30, 2023 at 6:57 AM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi Jay,
>
> The inverter won't even connect to the grid. It stays in the state where
> it is sampling the grid, AC in light blinking.
>
> Is the default high voltage for the nominal 240 V 280? (IE 140 V X 2).
>
>
> Thanks for your help.
>
>
> Drake
>
>
> *Drake Chamberlin*
>
> *Athens Electric LLC*
>
> *Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810*
>
> *NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional*
> ---
>
>
>
> On 2023-10-29 15:45, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
>
> Hi drake
>
> The early mate 3 has a glitch which I think they changed in the 3s.
>
> You e got to set the rebulk volts above what you want it to charge at.
>
> IE if the battery volts don't get below the rebulk volts it won't charge.
>
> So if your shallow cycling the batteries it's common it won't get below
> the rebulk volts. If you're deep cycling it usually will with default
> settings
>
> The default high voltage window for ac input is default at 140v.
>
> Hope this helps
>
> Jay
>
>
>
>
>
> On Oct 29, 2023, at 11:14 AM, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> My Radian GS 8048 intermittently will connect to the grid to charge
> batteries. The grid voltage seems to run high around here. Yesterday, it
> wouldn't connect. The grid voltage was at 251 V. Later it did connect. At
> that point the grid was at 246 V.
>
> I am suspecting that the Radian has a voltage acceptance limit of 250 V.
> Is that true? Is it possible to open up the window?
>
> If that isn't it, what could be the problem?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Drake
>
>
> *Drake Chamberlin*
>
> *Athens Electric LLC*
>
> *Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810*
>
> *NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional*
>
>
>
> --
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Cleaning PV mods

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

The encapsulant between the glass and the aluminum might be degraded by a
surfactant. It’s probably a low risk if you use a gentle soap, but I heard
that somewhere about 15 years ago so I thought I’d mention it.
I also heard that pressure washers are too strong and can ruin the
encapsulant seal.



On Mon, Oct 23, 2023 at 6:44 AM White, Will via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I worked with a guy who had done installs in Arizona. He had an off-grid
> customer spray down their array with cold well water in the middle of the
> day, which shattered the module glass.
>
>
>
> I’m sure it was an isolated incident, but it happened.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Will
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches
> *Sent:* Friday, October 20, 2023 4:47 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Cc:* Jason Szumlanski 
> *Subject:* [EXTERNAL] Re: [RE-wrenches] Cleaning PV mods
>
>
>
> *CAUTION:* This email originated from outside of the organization. Do not
> click links or open attachments unless you recognize the sender and know
> the content is safe.
>
>
>
> I don't understand the thermal shock nonsense. It routinely starts
> downpouring here when it's blazing hot out (sun showers) and the rain is
> way cooler than ground water in summer. It makes no sense. If hose water
> from the ground is going to hurt solar panels, you better not put them
> where it rains!
>
>
>
> I replied privately to Dana, but for the benefit of the group, it takes a
> heavy soiling to make any appreciable difference. I have done numerous
> tests at times of high pollen and found little to no benefit to cleaning
> solar panels. Certainly it would not be worth paying someone to do it.
> Other climates may have different results. My suggestion would be to test
> first. Module level power electronics can provide incontrovertible proof.
>
>
>
> Jason
>
>
>
>
>
> On Fri, Oct 20, 2023, 4:21 PM Dave Tedeyan via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Hi Dana,
>
>
>
> See attached from REC. I would imagine these guidelines would apply to all
> modules.
>
> Cheers,
>
> Dave
>
>
>
> On Fri, Oct 20, 2023 at 3:56 PM Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Hey ally ‘all,
>
>
>
> Ok bad solar installer! 7 years & I have never cleaned my modules & live
> on a dirt road. Yeah rain does a good job with the dust but there is a film
> mostly on the edges.
>
>
>
> What does everyone do for cleaning?
>
>
>
> My array is 16’+ tall on a hill side. I have a pressure washer & was going
> to pick up a large sponge type mop & mount it on a painters extension pole.
>
>
>
> Good Biodegradable cleaning solutions?
>
>
>
>
>
> _
>
> Dana OrzelGREAT SOLAR WORKS!
>
> C – 208.721.7003  E – d...@solarwork.com
>
> W - www. greatsolarworks.com
> 
> www.solarwork.com
> 
>
> *“Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988!”*
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Line Side Tap

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Dana in your first example it looks like 120A of solar is pushing onto a
100A utility meter, over #3 copper which cannot handle 120A. But I might be
missing something.




On Fri, Oct 13, 2023 at 6:29 AM Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Repost of 2 types of interconnection: this was for  dealing with a 100A
> service. Definitely the opposite of a 400A but I hop[e applicable.
>
>
>
> ___
>
> Dana Orzel  c- 2087217003   e – d...@solarwork.com
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Line Side Tap

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Drake I think you’re right and they’re wrong, as long as the 200A bus is
protected by a 200A breaker, and as long as the Utility meter and utility
conductors remain 400
David




On Thu, Oct 12, 2023 at 5:06 PM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> We have a design where the conductors will come out of a 400 A meter base
> to a junction box. Splices in the box will allow for the PV to feed the
> meter.
>
> A maximum of 312 Amps can come from the inverters to feed the grid.
>
> The loads on the existing main service are significantly less than 200A.
> The service is rated at 200 A, 3 phase delta.
>
>
>
>
> The conductors from the meter would be rated at 400 A to the splice, as
> would the conductors to the photovoltaic system. The conductors to the
> existing service would be downsized to 200 A.
>
> We were told that the bus bar rating of the service must also be 400 A,
> even though the output of the PV does not feed through that box. Is there a
> rule that says this? What would be the logic?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Drake
>
>
> *Drake Chamberlin*
>
> *Athens Electric LLC*
>
> *Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810*
>
> *NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional*
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fronius USA available 2023 & 2024 ?

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

   If you’re dealing with PG&E Utility, Fronius decided a few years ago not
to play along anymore. PGE constantly changes the requirements for the
inverter manufacturers, and what they call Smart Inverters.  from what I
understand this is mostly for solar curtailment when the grid is saturated.
I think Fronius got sick of chasing PGE around the mulberry bush with their
 devious, excessive anti-solar obstacles.
So under other Utility jurisdictions, I think Fronius is a fine choice.
Their uptime is impressive, tech support is quick, knowledgeable and
professional, and their PV Arc fault apparently isn’t latching.




On Sat, Aug 26, 2023 at 5:41 AM Peter Giroux via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Mick
>
>
>
>   Shame on the Greentech folks. Fronius is alive, well, has great
> inverters and their customer support is good. While most of our systems
> have been battery based for the last several year, when we need to do grid
> tied, Fronius is the go to product.
>
>
>
> Thx
>
> Peter Giroux
>
> American Solar
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches
> *Sent:* Thursday, August 24, 2023 4:23 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Cc:* Mick Abraham 
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] Fronius USA available 2023 & 2024 ?
>
>
>
> Hi, Mechanix~ I asked a Greentech location about quantity four Fronius
> string inverter PRIMO 6.0-1. (6kW AC output, single phase 240 volt 60 hz)
> This p/n is in the Greentech portal but my particular branch hasn't done
> much with Fronius. Today the branch manager told me "Fronius no longer
> exists."
>
>
>
> Can any of you confirm or correct this report? I have an off-grid
> opportunity for which I wish to AC couple some of the PV. If Fronius USA
> has indeed "left the building", are there other string inverters that can
> be selected for country code "off grid 60 hz"? I'd like for the PV
> inverters to only curtail their output wattage if there's a frequency shift
> from the grid forming inverter (frequency/watt). Schneider XW Pro units
> would be forming the grid. Schneider has a white paper # 990-6421 on AC
> coupling but this document is almost three years old & no help at all in
> finding compatible PV inverters. Rapid shutdown is not mandated for this
> gig & each array would be evenly illuminated. IIRC, the List hasn't been
> highly enamored with SolarEdge in recent years; is that still the consensus?
>
>
>
> Thanks as always; the Wrench List is the Bomb!
>
>
> Mick Abraham, Proprietor
> www.abrahamsolar.com
>
> Landline: 970-731-4675
>
> Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584
>
> [image: Image removed by sender.]ᐧ
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> --

David Quattro
CA License # 954020. C-10, C-46
ph (415) 312-2661
www.quattrosolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Hawaiian Tie in

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Type 1:  You’ll be limited to 100A solar because the Utility conductors
you’re attaching to are 100A. The Utility tap needs to immediately go to a
fused disconnect switch, generally within 6ft (sometimes 10ft) and within
line of sight of the meter.  Fuses need AIC rating equivalent to that of
the Sylvania main breaker



On Tue, Aug 8, 2023 at 8:11 AM Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Oh Wise folks!
>
> Attached is a wire schematic please review. & feel free to possibly use
> for yourself in the future.
>
> I am in a bind with an interconnection where I have an apartment 6 pack
> meter  box with all 120-240v/100 amp breakers & assumed 100 amp busbars.
> The apts. were a mid 1970's original build.  There are 4 apartment with 1
> circuit/meter each & 1 house circuit/ meter for owners use.The breaker
> boxes are Sylvania (yuck). Originally I assumed a larger busbar due to 6 -
> 100 amp breakers & this was not the case. We all know about assuming...
>
> I consulted with W-2 who had assisted my lead installer in in the past
> from UT. He sent the following & though it makes sense to me, the utility
> is asking how I can have a 225 amp panel behind a 100 amp breaker. My
> response was that all we are doing is  achieving a properly sized bus bar
> to accommodate the back feed.
>
> My Utility Idaho Power requires  interconnection with a meter that has a
> load on it. Solar only meters are not allowed. This is for the owners loads
> only & he has 1 meter per apt complex at 100amps each.
>
> I am wondering if any of you have used this connection adaption to achieve
> a larger array connection & how it went?
> --
> Dana Orzel Great Solar Works, Inc. C - 208.721.7003 d...@solarwork.com
> Idaho Contractor - # 028765 Idaho PV # 028374 "Responsible Technologies for
> Responsible People since 1988"
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Re: [RE-wrenches] SolarEdge Car Charger

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

I haven’t installed a Solaredge in years so my info might not be up to
date, but I remember that the EV Charger units couldn’t be commissioned
without an active internet connection.  The early models had high failure
rate, but that was within the first year or two that they offered the EV
Charger/inverter. I hope they would have fixed those bugs by now.






On Tue, Jul 25, 2023 at 3:11 PM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi All,
> I have never installed the SolarEdge car charger, and even though it seems
> to have some capacity advantages over a standalone charger, for some reason
> I've stayed away from them.  I'd be interested to hear others' takes on the
> advantages/disadvantages of going that route.
> Thanks,
> Howie
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Damaged PV module cells

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

The cells are cracking. The metal traces are victim (not the cause) along
the crack lines--

David Quattro
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Lithium battery recommendation

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

SimpliPhi has given me zero problems over about a dozen systems. so far I
have only used the 3.8kWh units that are not capable of closed loop
communication.




On Thu, Jul 13, 2023 at 9:34 PM Carl Hansen via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

>   Peter,
>
>I've also installed a few EG4 rack battery systems, they are working
> out well, tech support is easy to reach, not problems so far, customers
> like the price point. Standard 10 year warranty, company seems pretty
> solid, easy to communicate with.
>
>   Carl Hansen
>
>   Hansen&Sun Electric
>
> On 7/13/2023 5:11 PM, Peter Giroux via RE-wrenches wrote:
> > Jay
> >
> >You may want to look at the EG4's. Have been using them for several
> years and they have been great. They just brought out a comms hub that
> could help you. Their racks are great as well. $$ is good, especially
> compared to Fortress and the other.
> >
> >Take a look
> >
> > Thx
> > Peter Giroux
> > American Solar
> >
> > -Original Message-
> > From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf
> Of Jay via RE-wrenches
> > Sent: Thursday, July 13, 2023 6:20 PM
> > To: RE-wrenches 
> > Cc: Jay 
> > Subject: [RE-wrenches] Lithium battery recommendation
> >
> > Hi all
> >
> > I’m
> > Looking for recommendations for a lithium battery. 48v.  150-200 kWh.
> > System is probably going to be open comm, as the system has outback
> equipment. That could change but probably not.
> > Remote monitoring is required even though it is a site with people 24/7.
> >
> > So far fortress and home grid. Have been recommended to look at.
> > Blue planet is just too expensive.
> >
> > And PS. Fortress says that you cannot add batteries after 1 year. This
> goes against everything I thought I understood about lithium.
> > Any comments about why they say that?
> > Do others say rhat?
> >
> > Thanks in advance
> >
> > Jay
> >
> >
> >
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Re: [RE-wrenches] LG Chem RESU10H Battery Question

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi David and David, it’s me David
Since no lights come on when you turn the breakers on, it sounds like
the battery is deeply discharged. I bought a specialized charger for the
RESU10H.   If you want to borrow it let me know.
David Quattro


On Fri, Jun 30, 2023 at 10:40 AM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via
RE-wrenches  wrote:

> Hi David,
>
> I own and tested the 48V version Resu10, not the 10H that you have. On the
> one I have, the battery needs a heartbeat signal to operate.
> Without that signal from the inverter or a device that talks to LG battery
> the contactor will open and shut down the battery.
>
> This was a pretty early lithium offering and has proven to be very
> undesirable. We destroyed 2 of the Resu 10's with XW charge currents.
>
> Not sure if your plan is safe. Maybe the guy's here will know more. I
> would hold off until. Good Luck
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
> http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ 
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
> On 2023-06-30 9:39 am, David Katz via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> I have an LG Chem RESU10H Battery that was originally sold with a
> SunnyStorage inverter.  Does anyone know if there is a way to turn on the
> battery output terminals so it can be charged without the inverter. No
> lights come on when you turn on the main switch and the output breaker.
> There is a small terminal strip for control wires. There is a 12V + and –
> terminal and a Batt En terminal.  Does any one know if powering the Batt
> En. Terminal turns it on?  I am going to try that but I am not sure what
> voltage that terminal wants to see.
>
> Thanks
>
> David Katz
>
>
>
> David Katz
>
> *President*
>
> *www.tamaracksolar.com *
>
> (707) 222-6240 Ext: 105 | (707) 832-7487
>
> dk...@tamaracksolar.com
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] High current dc combiner vibration

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Ferrite cores can be used for the battery cables to pass through to reduce
common mode current

On Fri, Jun 30, 2023 at 3:59 AM Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I have -15- sets of 4/0 cable (1 per 32 kwh stack) into the combiner. They
> are paired and within .25 " of one another in wire cable tray for 80% of
> their respective distance.
>
> The inverter to combiner sets are 2/0 for each respective inverter. They
> are paired (not twisted) in cable tray, anywhere from 10 -20' in length.
> Maybe I can send some photos, but can't at present due to computer issues.
>
> I used cable tray because the CT-rated cable is in free air, no derating
> of current required. But merely pairing the leads may be the issue.
>
> I could rearrange the inverter cables and twist the sets, but doing it
> from combiner to battery cabinets is impossible.
>
> And I'm wondering if this is really necessary if the customer is willing
> to live with the issue. What are the ramifications down the road?
> Loosening of connections I suppose would be one.
>
>
>
> On Fri, Jun 30, 2023 at 12:40 AM Jerry Shafer via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Kirk
>> As the batteries come up to charge does the vibration subside. Are the
>> battery cables spun together "corkscrew like" l have seen this correct DC
>> noise. I have an 8 on 8 just like your 10 and l have no noise at all, mine
>> come in from each side of the battery combiner, how is your install
>> configured, how is the cable length same close or very short to very long
>> some length is better on FLA's due to resistance under load and charge.
>> More information may help with a solution.
>> Fun times solar
>> NABCEP PV Inspector
>>
>> On Thu, Jun 29, 2023, 8:19 AM Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> All,
>>>
>>> I am in the middle of commissioning a 480kwh BP LFP battery bank,
>>> connected to -10- OB Radian 8kw inverter/chargers.
>>>
>>> For the DC combiner I am using midnite 2000 amp combiner boxes, modified
>>> to mount  class T fuses on the positive bus, for both battery inputs and
>>> inverter outputs.
>>>
>>> For starters, I set the master inverter at a max charge rate of 20 AC
>>> amps, which equates to a DC charge of about 74 A. All the other inverters
>>> are automatically set to this charge rate as well.
>>>
>>> Turning the chargers on one by one, I started to get quite an audible
>>> vibration from the combiner box at a combined charge of about 400 to 500 A.
>>>
>>> So I took the cover off of the combiner, which was vibrating noticabllly
>>> by feel. Most of the noise was from the cover not fitting tight. But the
>>> The box itself is also vibrating by feel.
>>>
>>> I took the combined charge up to 640A dc. This level of vibration
>>> definitely increases with an increased charge rate. And I am surprised
>>> because after all, we’re not talking AC here we’re talking DC. It almost
>>> reminds me of a large AC transformer in its behavior. The vibration did not
>>> seem to be originating at the inverters, then resonating to the combiner.
>>>
>>> I can dampen the vibration by adding a few things, but I’m surprised
>>> that this is happening. All connections in the combiner are tightened
>>> properly. Ideas?
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> --
>>>
>>> *Kirk Herander / **kirkh@vermont.solar *
>>>
>>> *Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC*
>>>
>>> *Celebrating our 32st Anniversary 1991-2023!!*
>>>
>>> dba Vermont Solar Engineering
>>>
>>> 802.863.1202
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Remote load shedding

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

GENERAC also makes a 100 amp version of the SMM



On Tue, Jun 27, 2023 at 3:12 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I'm interested in this also. This is becoming increasingly necessary as we
> install "whole home" backup systems, but we need to dump a load that is on
> a downstream subpanel. A common need is to shed pool equipment like
> electric heat pumps and pool pumps when utility power is lost. In other
> cases, the backup system interconnection point is outside at a meter/main
> combination service entrance device, but the loads we need to shed are on a
> downstream distribution load center.
>
> Sometimes wiring control cables to do this is cumbersome or virtually
> impossible.
>
> A while back I ended up purchasing a 24Vac remote 900 Mhz relay to shed
> air conditioning, but ultimately I never installed it because it was too
> complicated and introduced an unacceptable point of failure (potential
> service issue). We need some reliable, simple load shedding products that
> are brand agnostic.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
>
>
> On Tue, Jun 27, 2023 at 1:06 AM Mac Lewis via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Hello Wrenches,
>>
>> Is anyone aware of a remote load shedding solution that doesn't require
>> additional signal wiring to the loads?
>>
>> Generac has a great solution for this that they adapted from their
>> generator business called a Generac Smart management module.  Its a 2P x
>> 50A relay that monitors line frequency going to the load and it will trip
>> it off line when the frequency sags.  The inverter does a small wiggle that
>> will trip it offline based on some Dip switch settings. on the unit.  This
>> really simplifies code compliance in some cases.
>>
>> I'm wondering if there are any other more general solutions out there for
>> this.
>>
>> Thanks in advance!
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>>
>>
>> Mac Lewis
>>
>> *"Yo solo sé que no sé nada." -Sócrates*
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fronius primo fan

[david quattro via RE-wrenches]

Hi Jay,  in my experience most fans are readily available, you just have to
pull the old fan and get a part number from its nameplate. Or you can
probably order one from Fronius tech support. Worst case I experienced was
on an old SHARP inverter (3 MPPT's), it was supposed to be 3-wire fan, but
all i could find was 2-wire. So instead of coming on when temperature
sensor triggered it, the fan was just on all the time. not great but better
than overheating

On Thu, Jun 15, 2023 at 5:16 PM Jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Does anyone know where to get a replacement fan for a fronius promo 10kw?
>
> Thx
>
> Jay
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