Hi Jesse, Good open question....here's what I think about this problem....
We all understand that electrical components have very clear performance versus cost trade-offs. I think extreme outside conditions, like those below -40°C temps, simply lend themselves to a string/central PV topology better than a micro topology. All inverters will always have limitations that when exceeded can cause product failures. In extreme conditions, in critical applications, it makes much more sense to put your critical components somewhere protected from the elements. Almost anywhere but behind the module. Obviously with micro, the inverter is exposed to the absolute worst conditions possible, that the local climate has to offer. While with string or central, you can locate these inverters inside a climate controlled space... Power sheds, Barn's and Garages are very common. Networking and monitoring equipment usually have limitations far sooner than the inverter these days, so complicated monitoring like Emphases' may also be risky here. The integrated Display Screens on string inverters can be conveniently located to make regular checkups a snap. It isn't cost effective to design -60°C components into global products where a majority of units will sell into areas with -25°C lows, when price competition exists. So inverters will come in a variety of shapes, sizes and capabilities, we simply have to use the right tool for the job. Not just try to use micro for everything. Learn how to string, it's fun, and faster by far. If all Enphase has is a hammer, everything they see is nails. Use the best product for the project, an easily located string inverter tends to work real well once you get the "hang" of it. RL Message: 10 Date: Mon, 16 Jan 2012 18:21:17 -0600 From: Jesse Dahl <[email protected]> To: RE-wrenches <[email protected]> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Inverters and cold temps? Message-ID: <[email protected]> Content-Type: text/plain; charset=us-ascii All, I live in an area where -40F is not uncommon and where -60F has been seen. (northern MN) I have yet to see an inverter that can be placed in locations like this and not exceed the warranty temp extremes. Enphase has a cold temp acceptability of -40F last time I checked, and when I called they told me about an install in Antarctica using micros. I have installed inverters outside in the twin cities, not up here. What do you think about this problem? Thanks as always, Jesse Sent from my iPhone - _______________________________________________ List sponsored by Home Power magazine List Address: [email protected] Options & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List-Archive: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out participant bios: www.members.re-wrenches.org
