[RE-wrenches] Outback RTS
Are all Outback temperature sensors the same? I need some for Radian GS8048 (not A). Is there a good place to get them these days? Thank you, Drake -- _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Red Lion Pumps
I am looking at a Red Lion, 1/2 HP soft start pump for an off grid system. Does anyone have experience with Red Lion pumps? https://www.waterpumpsdirect.com/Red-Lion-RL12G05-3W2V-Water-Pump/p7506.html This pump will be used in a cistern. What is the best soft start submersible to run off of an inverter? Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Portable systems
People have been really happy with GoSun units. This is a very inspired, small company owned and operated by Patrick Sherwin. --- On 2024-08-16 19:42, August Goers via RE-wrenches wrote: I have a couple of Jackery units as well and they have worked great for 2 or 3 years now running my fridge, internet, and work computer setup when the power goes out. I've also taken them camping. Mine are slightly older with NMC cells, but I agree that if I was going to buy a new one that LFP is the way to go: https://www.jackery.com/products/explorer-2000-plus-portable-power-station August On Fri, Aug 16, 2024 at 4:34 PM Bradley Bassett via RE-wrenches wrote: You want to make sure that it has LFP cells and not NMC. Some of them do still have NMC or similar cells. Brad On Fri, Aug 16, 2024, 4:17 PM david quattro via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 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 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] AGM blew on discharge
The owner said it blew out a lot of hot gas, but the lid did not blow off. The system has a mini split on it that was on during summer nights, running off a bank of 8 L-16s. People think since mini splits are energy efficient, they are like LED lighting. --- On 2024-07-24 11:10, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi Drake What do you mean it off gassed? Like blew the top off? On Jul 24, 2024, at 8:40 AM, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: A severely abused bank of Rolls Surrette batteries had one battery off gas heavily on discharge. It seems like the off gassing happens on overcharge, not discharge. What could have caused that? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] AGM blew on discharge
A severely abused bank of Rolls Surrette batteries had one battery off gas heavily on discharge. It seems like the off gassing happens on overcharge, not discharge. What could have caused that? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Grundfos SQFlex Pump Repair
I never use the Grundfos pumps, but use standard AC deep well pumps, so long as the inverter can handle it. The off the shelf pumps aren't as efficient, but stay in the water for much longer. They are also cheaper. --- On 2024-07-11 16:51, Bradley Bassett via RE-wrenches wrote: An SQF quiet? I've had three 3 SQF-2 and they are all quite loud, even 300 ft down the well. Maybe the 6 SQF is different. My old 3 SQF-2 will still pump water but not against much head. I think it failed because it had been running 24/7 for some time. If the leak is in the well it might even have heated up the water. I'm still looking for that leak.Time to pull the pump yet again. Brad Bassett On Thu, Jul 11, 2024 at 1:16 PM Matt Sherald via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello All, I just replaced a customer's Grundfos 6-SQF-2. It had stopped pushing water to their upper cistern. A new pump solved the customer's problem, but I am curious if anyone has had luck repairing a SQFlex pump or (better yet!!) knows of a service center that could refurb a pump.? The pump I removed did move a little water once I had it un-coupled from the plumbing in the lower cistern spring box. It made a bit more noise when operating than the new one which is incredibly quiet. Any suggestions are greatly appreciated. Thank you! -- Matt Sherald PIMBY Energy, LLC 304-704-5943 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Relay Driver
Hello, Does anyone know of a relay driver that would be work like the Morningstar Relay Driver, except that it would output a 12V DC signal, rather than battery voltage? Actually, it could put out 12V - 24 V AC, or 120 or 240 V AC. 12 V DC would be optimal. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Radians
What vintage are you Radians? How much do you want for them? Do they use the Mate 3 or the 3s? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Fronius 489 Error Code
A client has a Fronius Primo 10.0-1 that is showing a 489 Error code, which says - permanent capacitor over voltage - call tech support. The inverter doesn't work. His original inverter had failed, he did the tests and they sent him a replacement. Fronius told him he needed to get a Fronius Partner out to do some tests. The nearest one is a couple hundred miles away. He is technically savvy and can do the tests himself. What is going on with Fronius? How can we get through their hoops to get them to send him another inverter. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback Tech Support
This is a follow up. There is good news for a change! Outback tech support is back and warranties will be honored. I spoke with Anthony this morning, who has been with Outback a long time and knows his stuff. Currently, warranties are being handled through Enersys, and the process of warranty replacement may be a bit clunky for a while. This is expected to last about 6 months. All record of past technical support cases have been lost in the transition of ownership. They are starting over with the data on support cases. Best, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2024-05-24 18:20, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello All, With the sale of Outback, their tech support seems to have disappeared. Around the time of the sale, tech support had agreed to send me a new control stack for a Radian. After a long delay, they did send it, but were quick to remind me to return the core. When the new control stack was installed, the inverter would not work. The error message was AC Out Voltage Low. I put the old one back in and returned the one they sent. There is no one to talk to, and no one answers email. Do you know if the new owners are planning to honor product warranty? Is tech support coming back? This is a pretty rough transition. It will likely leave a number of people in the dark. Fun Times Indeed! Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] replacement needed for 12 vdc, 20w El-Sid circulator
I have a box of new, 24VDC El Sid pumps that I decided not to use. I would be willing to sell the lot for what i have in it. Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2024-05-26 12:35, Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello, Any recommendations for replacement? A customer's El Sid on an old Sdhw system just failed after 20 years of service. It is powered directly from a PV module. Thanks in advance. -- Kirk Herander / kirkh@vermont.solar Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC _Celebrating our 33st Anniversary 1991-2024!!_ dba Vermont Solar Engineering 802.559.1225 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback Tech Support
Okay I did. Below is my posting. Is Outback tech support coming back under the new management? I would recommend reviving it and hiring back the people who really know the equipment, especially Lones Tuss. Will Outback honor the warranties of equipment now in the field? I recommend that it does, and improves the services rendered by the sellers. Since many people depend on their solar equipment for their electricity, it is crucial that replacements be delivered in a timely manner. Thank you, Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2024-05-24 18:40, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches wrote: Marshall Neipert [3]Forum MemberPosts: 11 [4]Joined: Mon May 20, 2024 10:07 amMy RE system: President of Outback Power https://www.linkedin.com/in/neipertContact: Contact Marshall Neipert [5] You should ask him Drake! He is on the forum and responding to some emails. Here is in a link that he is taking suggestions on https://forum.outbackpower.com/viewtopic.php?t=18726 Kind of weird that the president is using a linkedin address but it is their company now. That is the main reason I responded on the Solar edge stock. You have to stay in business to be in business. With that price hit and an address in Isreal right now, beware! I know very little about roof mounted electronics because I do not go on roofs. I totally get it that most here do. I still have my rights I think! FRIDAY ! Stay Safe ! Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" [1]https://offgridsolar1.com/ [2] [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net text 209 813 0060 On 2024-05-24 3:20 pm, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello All, With the sale of Outback, their tech support seems to have disappeared. Around the time of the sale, tech support had agreed to send me a new control stack for a Radian. After a long delay, they did send it, but were quick to remind me to return the core. When the new control stack was installed, the inverter would not work. The error message was AC Out Voltage Low. I put the old one back in and returned the one they sent. There is no one to talk to, and no one answers email. Do you know if the new owners are planning to honor product warranty? Is tech support coming back? This is a pretty rough transition. It will likely leave a number of people in the dark. Fun Times Indeed! Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ [2] https://offgridsolar1.com/ [3] https://forum.outbackpower.com/memberlist.php?mode=viewprofile&u=20772 [4] https://forum.outbackpower.com/search.php?author_id=20772&sr=posts [5] https://forum.outbackpower.com/viewtopic.php?t=18726#___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Outback Tech Support
Hello All, With the sale of Outback, their tech support seems to have disappeared. Around the time of the sale, tech support had agreed to send me a new control stack for a Radian. After a long delay, they did send it, but were quick to remind me to return the core. When the new control stack was installed, the inverter would not work. The error message was AC Out Voltage Low. I put the old one back in and returned the one they sent. There is no one to talk to, and no one answers email. Do you know if the new owners are planning to honor product warranty? Is tech support coming back? This is a pretty rough transition. It will likely leave a number of people in the dark. Fun Times Indeed! Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: $300 + transmission fee!
Peter, Right, that is about it. The fee is a monthly fee. It will take a year of keeping the spike below that before the fee will be dropped from the bill. Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2024-02-23 11:12, pgir...@mindspring.com wrote: Drake AEP should be able to provide your client ( if they are the one asking ) with a real time readout showing the "spike / load increase " and what actual equipment they had to install. Sounds a bit dodgy. What's next, special fees for homeowners who kick on the well pump flushing a toilet while using a hairdryer at the same time? Peter Giroux ASAE -Original Message- From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches Sent: Friday, February 23, 2024 10:57 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org Subject: [RE-wrenches] $300 + transmission fee! Hello All, A system we installed several years ago is on an old school building that has been repurposed to office space and small shops. The loads are very small. The electric bill, during the short days of the year with lots of clouds (very little solar), was around $30. Suddenly the electric bill came with a $300+ fee for transmission. AEP claimed that the load, at some point, went over a certain amount of power, so that the company had to charge for equipment that would handle that load year around. No equipment changes have been made. The service is 200 A. Has anyone else encountered this? I wonder if there is any other type of rate schedule the building could be put on to eliminate this problem. AEP is not forthcoming about rate schedules or this issue. Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] $300 + transmission fee!
Hello All, A system we installed several years ago is on an old school building that has been repurposed to office space and small shops. The loads are very small. The electric bill, during the short days of the year with lots of clouds (very little solar), was around $30. Suddenly the electric bill came with a $300+ fee for transmission. AEP claimed that the load, at some point, went over a certain amount of power, so that the company had to charge for equipment that would handle that load year around. No equipment changes have been made. The service is 200 A. Has anyone else encountered this? I wonder if there is any other type of rate schedule the building could be put on to eliminate this problem. AEP is not forthcoming about rate schedules or this issue. Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] EG4 Equipment
I fully agree that off grid solar has taken a major downturn. Once the equipment became software based, the reliability dropped. Sure, there are nice features available with these cyber enhanced systems, but the cost in reliability makes being energy independent off the grid hard to accomplish. There are good reports on Samlex products. Has anyone tried their new 120/240 split phase units? Are they stack-able yet? As far as batteries go, I'm pretty much in the Lead Head club, especially for off grid. That being said, lead acid batteries, especially AGMs have gotten really expensive and it seems the quality isn't what it used to be. What is the best AGM battery these days? Thanks, Drake --- On 2024-02-16 17:02, Michael Morningstar via RE-wrenches wrote: We gave EG4 and Signature another chance after promises from their dealer oriented support department that we could expect better service from them. We had an EG4 BMS crap out a couple months ago after only a few months. Lots and lots of communications with Signature and we still don't have a BMS or replacement battery. It's been a shit show with them. I think we are going to remove them and install 3rd party BMS's and find some use for them. Maybe donate them. We've only had luck with Schneider/Discover pairings in closed loop. A large system we did with Sol-Arks never really worked in Closed loop, despite Discover coming to the site. Most likely it's a Sol-Ark issue, but we've reached Sol-Arks technical expertise limits. Even with Schneider/AES, there have been some issues that are causing me to re-consider Li for offgrid. I just had a conversation this morning with a long time off-grid pro and he said the same thing. It used to be, we'd install a wet lead acid bank and then ten years would pass before hearing from the client when it was time for another bank. Sometimes fifteen years. Our call backs with systems over the last ten years, first with a decline in equipment quality and then the switch to Li are costing us too much money and causing a lot of heartburn for our clients. Rant Over On Fri, Feb 16, 2024 at 12:57 PM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi All, I've searched the archives for info pertaining to EG4 inverters and batteries. The comments have been mostly positive. I have stayed away from EG4 until now in part, for the reason the Michael Morningstar suggested last June - that is, they seemed very oriented to the DIY market and not real serious contenders in the lasting marketplace. However, I was at RE+ Boston this week and was quite surprised to see that the EG4 18k inverter is, for all I could tell, identical to the Fortress Envy 12k, in both physical layout as well as menu structure. I have very limited experience with the Envy (having just installed my 1st one last week, in order to compare it to the Sol-Ark 15). I don't have any thoughts about it yet, except that the font on the screen is quite small and the opening screen is not as intuitive as the Sol-Ark, but that might just take familiarizing myself more to the Envy (and/or the EG4). My question is, for folks who have had either the Envy or the EG4 inverters installed for a decent period of time, what is your current take on their functionality, durability, and for the EG4, the quality of support? Also, what experience have folks had similarly with the EG4 LLI batteries? I'm not unhappy with the Sol-Ark or in general the Fortress eVault Max battery, but there are some attractive things about the Envy and potentially the EG4 18k, and the price point and seemingly smart configuration of the EG4 LLI batteries are certainly eye-catching. I'm also currently starting to lean toward using Lithium batteries and inverters from the same manufacturer, as I'm growing weary of the mismatching firmware updates that are causing somewhat frequent issues between the 2 components. Although the inverter/battery integrated units (i.e. Sonen, Tesla, etc.) don't seem ideal, since the market is so volatile at the moment. If one component fails, I'd like the option to replace it with a different brand without having to replace the other component as well. Using the same manu doesn't necessarily cut down the problems, but it certainly will help in the troubleshooting process by hopefully having less of the "not my problem" or "we haven't seen that problem" responses from tech support. I really don't like making forays into bleeding-edge technologies, so I'm hoping to gain some experienced insight. Thanks, Howie Michaelson Sun Catcher ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenc
Re: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: Cantilevered array
If the array covers the rain gutters, doesn't that prevent the gutters from catching rain? Doesn't the edge of the extended modules form a drip edge, where water will not be diverted by the gutters, but hit the ground directly? Will the gutters be accessible for future maintenance? _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2024-02-12 11:02, Christopher Warfel wrote: Hi, in what way? The loading is obviously less, and the clamps are rated for the load. On 2/12/2024 10:56 AM, drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org wrote: How do you deal with the rain gutters? Drake Chamberlin Media & Communication Action Project https://m-cap.org/ --- On 2024-02-08 16:46, Sky Sims via RE-wrenches wrote: I've designed and installed several thousand cantilevered arrays over the last three decades and never had a single issue. Unfortunately, code changes have taken a turn for the worse in most jurisdictions and oftentimes disallow cantilevering. Sky Sims Https://EcologicalSystems.org 732-462-3858 On Jan 19, 2024, at 3:09 PM, Christopher Warfel via RE-wrenches wrote: I've done a fair amount of roof mounted solar structural compliance, and I would say that the cantilevered design looks like a disaster waiting to happen. You could not use conventional solar racking products. Chris On 1/13/2024 12:42 PM, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake My earlier reply may have been a bit facetious. What I meant by it was that big-box solar contractors can be lazy when it comes to solar design. They will rely totally on satellite imagery and not check the design on the ground. This is how you get solar proposed for shaded areas, where skylights and roof vents are located, or overhanging thin air. This may be what is happening in the image you shared. What is unique here is someone actually specified overhanging panels. Looking more closely at the image, a roof outline is shown but it is not clear that the outline is actually situated over a building. It almost looks like there is landscaped area inside the outline. The solution of course is to get on out there, measure the roof and any obstructions and analyze the shading. I use the Sun Seeker [1] app for IOS for the shading analysis. William Miller Solar 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [2] CA Lic. 773985 From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches Sent: Saturday, January 13, 2024 8:47 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org Subject: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: Cantilevered array Here is a larger snip of the situation. Label says overhang from upper roof. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2024-01-12 07:29, Jason Szumlanski wrote: Are you sure that's what you're looking at? To me, that looks like there was an addition made to the house, and maybe it's a multi-pitch roof. That lower part might be a covered wrap-around porch. Jason Szumlanski Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP) Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956 On Thu, Jan 11, 2024 at 5:59 PM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: I was given a drawing, produced by a very large solar company, showing the array cantilevered over the edge of the roof by several feet. Notice how the array hangs out over the lawn for several feet. Is there anyway that this is a legitimate way to mount modules? Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn&#
Re: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: Cantilevered array
How do you deal with the rain gutters? Drake Chamberlin Media & Communication Action Project https://m-cap.org/ --- On 2024-02-08 16:46, Sky Sims via RE-wrenches wrote: I've designed and installed several thousand cantilevered arrays over the last three decades and never had a single issue. Unfortunately, code changes have taken a turn for the worse in most jurisdictions and oftentimes disallow cantilevering. Sky Sims Https://EcologicalSystems.org 732-462-3858 On Jan 19, 2024, at 3:09 PM, Christopher Warfel via RE-wrenches wrote: I've done a fair amount of roof mounted solar structural compliance, and I would say that the cantilevered design looks like a disaster waiting to happen. You could not use conventional solar racking products. Chris On 1/13/2024 12:42 PM, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake My earlier reply may have been a bit facetious. What I meant by it was that big-box solar contractors can be lazy when it comes to solar design. They will rely totally on satellite imagery and not check the design on the ground. This is how you get solar proposed for shaded areas, where skylights and roof vents are located, or overhanging thin air. This may be what is happening in the image you shared. What is unique here is someone actually specified overhanging panels. Looking more closely at the image, a roof outline is shown but it is not clear that the outline is actually situated over a building. It almost looks like there is landscaped area inside the outline. The solution of course is to get on out there, measure the roof and any obstructions and analyze the shading. I use the Sun Seeker [1] app for IOS for the shading analysis. William Miller Solar 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [2] CA Lic. 773985 From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches Sent: Saturday, January 13, 2024 8:47 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org Subject: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Re: Cantilevered array Here is a larger snip of the situation. Label says overhang from upper roof. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2024-01-12 07:29, Jason Szumlanski wrote: Are you sure that's what you're looking at? To me, that looks like there was an addition made to the house, and maybe it's a multi-pitch roof. That lower part might be a covered wrap-around porch. Jason Szumlanski Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP) Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956 On Thu, Jan 11, 2024 at 5:59 PM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: I was given a drawing, produced by a very large solar company, showing the array cantilevered over the edge of the roof by several feet. Notice how the array hangs out over the lawn for several feet. Is there anyway that this is a legitimate way to mount modules? Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org -- Christopher Warfel ENTECH Engineering, Inc. PO Box 871, Block Island, RI 02807 401-466-8978 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org L
Re: [RE-wrenches] State of Charge Meter for Sol-Ark
How does the lack of accuracy in SOC detection affect the usefulness of closed loop systems? _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ On 2024-02-05 11:36, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Jason: I am careful about getting my clients too dependent on SOC readings. SOC is a calculated value based on changing variables and is notoriously inaccurate. Below is a screenshot of the Optics reporting for a client. The graph line that begins as the lower of the two is the SOC, the other is voltage. The SOC is out of calibration until about noon when it jumps from about 20% to about 80%. This does not mean the SOC changed by that amount, it means that it was just very wrong. Who knows when it is correct? In spite of repeated entreaties this client still reads the SOC and becomes concerned when it gets low-- even if the voltage level indicates the batteries are well charged. I have to deal with his misplaced anxiety. This problem appears to occur across all battery/inverter technology. For example, SMA touts their "coulomb counting" as more accurate than others but I have witnessed otherwise. You'd think that BMS units built by lithium manufacturers for their own products would be consistently accurate but even those BMS units need to recalibrate frequently, this according to the battery manufacturer's engineers. It would be nice to offer clients a simple, accurate method of ascertaining battery charge levels. SOC is not that method. I train my clients to watch voltage levels and to understand these values are elastic. If you can see trends in the battery voltage, so much the better. This is why I like the Outback Optics interface. This is also why a good AGS system examines battery voltage over time. I no longer install Outback FNDC units. Without them there is no SOC reading. I don't install Sunny Island systems--they are SOC centered and suffer for it. William Miller Solar 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [1] CA Lic. 773985 From: RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches Sent: Sunday, February 4, 2024 7:30 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Jason Szumlanski Subject: [RE-wrenches] State of Charge Meter for Sol-Ark Are there any off the shelf solutions to view battery SOC via a wired meter mounted remotely on a property? I have a client with a simple voltage based meter for lead acid batteries that they are accustomed to using as a quick and approximate gauge of SOC. They want something similar for their new Sol-Ark with EG4 LL batteries. They will have smartphone app visibility, but they want something they can see inside the house without picking up a phone or going out to the inverter. Ideally the SOC will come from the inverter or the battery itself, not an external source (to avoid discrepancies). Jason Szumlanski Florida Solar Design Group ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.millersolar.com/ image002.emz Description: Binary data image006.emz Description: Binary data ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Schneider Insight Home and Insight Cloud
My experience with using Insight and Xanbus is that the projects never end. It is too bad, since Schneider equipment seems really good. The software issues don't seem to ever get completely solved. Possibly with a very simple system, the Xanbus might work OK. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2024-02-05 12:27, Lou Russo via RE-wrenches wrote: Aloha All, I recently installed 2 new off-grid systems using all Scneider products, Discover 7.4 batteries and the Insight Home all setup in Insight Cloud. Both systems are experiencing communications issues with Insight Cloud and a bit on the Xanbus. Though each in a different way. Before I go into specifics, has anyone else been having issues with Insight Cloud or the Xanbus recently? Just wondering if it is a me problem or a they problem. I have gone through all the standard tech support phone call instructions. All firmware updated, comms cables checked, internet speeds confirmed to be good, system set back to system defaults and reprogrammed, etc... Thanks for your time. Aloha, Lou Russo Owner l...@spreesolarsystems.com 808 345 6762 Spree Solar Systems LLC CT-34322 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Automatic load control
I use a Morningstar relay driver and 48 VDC relays to drop loads as the battery voltage drops. It works fine, and avoids the necessity of complex electronics. Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-12-14 21:36, Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches 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 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] 48 V DC temp sensing relay
William, I'm planning to use a 48 V battery vent fan, turned around backwards, to blow air into the box. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-12-13 11:25, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake: I tried running 48 VDC muffin fans on battery voltage. They failed. I switched to a Dc-Dc converter (12 or 24, can't remember) from digi-key and problem solved. Point being battery voltage ranges may be too extreme for some components. William Miller Miller Solar.com 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [1] On Wed, Dec 13, 2023 at 8:08 AM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello, Does anyone know of a 48 VDC temperature sensing relay? I need to use one to control a fan in a 48 V battery bank, to bring in cold air when the bank gets too hot from the wood heating system in the house. The relay needs to operate with the 48 VDC power supply and disconnect a small current with 48 VDC contacts. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.millersolar.com___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] 48 V DC temp sensing relay
Hello, Does anyone know of a 48 VDC temperature sensing relay? I need to use one to control a fan in a 48 V battery bank, to bring in cold air when the bank gets too hot from the wood heating system in the house. The relay needs to operate with the 48 VDC power supply and disconnect a small current with 48 VDC contacts. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] SMA TL-22 insulation resistance error
It could be the inverter. The TL-22 series had a lot of problems with false arc fault errors. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-12-13 10:52, Dave Tedeyan via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi All, I am curious to hear if anyone else has run into this: This is the system I posted about a little while ago that had the SolarWorld modules and all the module to module connectors were swollen and melted. One of the inverters was giving an insulation resistance error, and so after seeing the module connectors, I was sure that was the issue. We replaced every single module connector with new MC4's, and then the error came back! My next step was to swap in the junction box which strings go to which inverter to identify whether the issue was on the roof or somewhere between the roof jbox and the inverter. (the issue was isolated to only 1 of 4 strings previously). Turns out the same inverter is faulting, which leads me to believe that there may be an issue with the wires in the DC conduit. Maybe they got damaged by a rough wire pull at the initial installation 7 years ago, and its finally degraded enough to cause a problem. The fault is intermittent, only showing up once every couple weeks or so, so it is difficult to catch it while the fault is active. But my question is, could there also be something wrong with the inverter itself? After spending a lot of time on this one, ideally, I would know that replacing the DC wires will fix it. So I am curious if people have done this, to still find that the issue was something internal to the inverter. Thanks! -Dave -- [1] Dave Tedeyan, P.E. Owner | Sungineer Solar p: he | him | his a: 1653 Slaterville Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850 w: www.sungineersolar.com [2] c: (607) 270-0370 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] https://www.sungineersolar.com/ [2] http://www.sungineersolar.com/___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Question
Follow up: The charger on the Radian connected to the grid at 252 VAC today. It appears that it is random when the inverter will connect. The AC grid voltage does not appear to be the issue. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-10-31 11:34, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Jay, It was a problem that surfaced before. Outback tech support was unable to figure it out. Then, the problem went away. Recently it showed up again. For the last couple of days it has been connecting normally. The voltage has been 250 VAC or lower. I know that most direct grid tie inverters can go to 264 V. I wondered if the Radian might be limiting voltage to protect loads. Just a theory based on the reading of 251 and higher when the inverter would not connect. Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-10-30 20:37, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake I forgot to ask, but I'm thinking this is a new problem on an older system that was working normally? Jay On Oct 30, 2023, at 11:15 AM, david quattro via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 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 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_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrench
Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Question
It isn't in sell mode. The system is 2 or 3 years old, and has had this issue before. Outback couldn't figure it out, and then is started working normally. --- _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ On 2023-10-31 12:14, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote: Is the radian connected to grid sell? If so then I'd say yes the higher grid voltage is preventing connection. Jay On Oct 31, 2023, at 9:35 AM, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Jay, It was a problem that surfaced before. Outback tech support was unable to figure it out. Then, the problem went away. Recently it showed up again. For the last couple of days it has been connecting normally. The voltage has been 250 VAC or lower. I know that most direct grid tie inverters can go to 264 V. I wondered if the Radian might be limiting voltage to protect loads. Just a theory based on the reading of 251 and higher when the inverter would not connect. Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-10-30 20:37, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake I forgot to ask, but I'm thinking this is a new problem on an older system that was working normally? Jay On Oct 30, 2023, at 11:15 AM, david quattro via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 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 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_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searchin
Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Question
Jay, It was a problem that surfaced before. Outback tech support was unable to figure it out. Then, the problem went away. Recently it showed up again. For the last couple of days it has been connecting normally. The voltage has been 250 VAC or lower. I know that most direct grid tie inverters can go to 264 V. I wondered if the Radian might be limiting voltage to protect loads. Just a theory based on the reading of 251 and higher when the inverter would not connect. Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-10-30 20:37, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake I forgot to ask, but I'm thinking this is a new problem on an older system that was working normally? Jay On Oct 30, 2023, at 11:15 AM, david quattro via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 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 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_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenc
Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Question
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 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_ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Radian Question
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_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Line Side Tap
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 List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Fronius USA available 2023 & 2024 ?
My suppliers don't have any Fronius now. I try to buy entire systems, if possible. What is now available for a string inverter is the Grow Watt. Can anyone either recommend them, or warn us not to use them. Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-08-25 12:44, Eric Smiley via RE-wrenches wrote: Interesting. Fronius has a strong presence in Canada with good tech support. We also have a very low failure rate - can't remember the last time we replaced one. There were some supply issues earlier this year but we are receiving inverters and parts. They also have a good rep for low failure and good service in Australia and Europe. Not sure why the US gets short shrift. Eric Smiley, Design Manager e...@vecoop.ca T: 250.703.6004 [2] T: 888.386.0116 [3] VIRIDIANENERGY.CA [4] [4] On Fri, 25 Aug 2023 at 08:27, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches wrote: I think Fronius has left the building. The reason I know is they stopped sending me AFCI repairs about 2 years ago. There was not any support from their installers in remote places like the Sierra range. I would second Tump on picking a good company with real money and products. Below is a new one this fall. https://shop.se.com/us/en/schneiderhome Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar "we go where powerlines don't" https://offgridsolar1.com/ [1] e-mail offgridso...@sti.net text 209 813 0060 On 2023-08-25 3:55 am, Tump via RE-wrenches wrote: Mick, I would avoid trying to use a manufacture that has little NO support OR product availability. IF your using the Schnieder Pros, I would suggest you consider the 600/100 CC. This product is more then capable of handling 7kW of input. They are available, compatible w/ their (Schnieder's) battery monitoring AND offer a system that is able to "talk" to itself. Off grid should be uniform in design so clients/caretakers and you, have little adding to confusion IF/when their is an issue. Lord knows Im not saying there won't be an issue w/ Schnieder's product, but we DO have a product, tech support & other persons w/in the company we are able to call on. AC coupling, for off grid while we have Hi V CCs available is for me a thing of the past. My$0.02 worth TUMP On Aug 24, 2023, at 4:23 PM, Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 [5] Landline: 970-731-4675 Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584 ᐧ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Tump [6]3...@gmail.com www.SWNL.net [6] Solarwinds Northernlights __ _ Serving Mid Coast Maine & Northern California_ _ 207-832-7574 Cl. 610-517-8401 _ _ __Blair "TUMP" May_ MAINE'S CHARTER _ __ NABCEP"Certified PV Installer"_ MAINE'S CHARTER _Trace Xantrex "Certified" Dealer / Installer"_ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Record Low
Hello Wrenches, Is there a good source for finding record low temperatures in various areas? We are designing a project that has very different temperature characteristics than we are used to. Ashrae.org was recommended as a source. Does anyone know where on the site to look? Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Inverter On/Off Switch use Outback FX
Do you have a source for voltage sensing coils? I only know about using the Morningstar relay driver. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-07-21 07:10, Mac Lewis via RE-wrenches wrote: To avoid power relay, how about adding a voltage sensing coil on the AC input and have an NC contactor that opens on voltage in series with the inverter shutdown circuit. This should interrupt the inverter shutdown any time the generator is on. On Thu, Jul 20, 2023 at 6:00 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches wrote: I've done the AC relay idea as well, on Schneider that didn't have the easy off switching like the Outbacks. The problems are: 1) Much bigger relay, much higher current on the control side as well. It required a relay for the relay. 2) If there's a malfunction, you are messing with the main feeders for the home. 3) The inverters are still on with their no load draw, a pair of VFX inverters, would be 45 to 50 watts, so you could still shut the batteries down. I think in your case without AGS, the trick might be to add a bypass control switch parallel to the relay, so they can manually turn the inverters back on. Ray On 7/20/2023 5:15 PM, Jay wrote: Hi Ray This house won't have an AGS, manual start only. And your comments exactly, having to wait until the next day when hopefully there is enough sun to charge the battery is iffy. Or they could do the inverter bypass switch. Again I'm back to why is it a worse idea to install a relay on the AC? Thx Jay As to the sol ark which I never thought about it being in a sense an AC coupled system. IE if the inverter is off it won't charge. I guess you'll have to install an external battery charger? On Jul 20, 2023, at 5:08 PM, Ray Walters via RE-wrenches wrote: The aux off is only if the generator doesn't start. You need to set the gen start voltage higher. Aux off is last ditch shut down, set for 44v for lead acid, or 47 to 49v, depending on the battery and inverter. Hopefully DC coupled PV will raise the voltage enough to turn the inverters back on the next day. This is my concern on Solark installs, I just noticed that the inverter won't pass through PV, if it hits its LVD set point. On 7/20/2023 3:04 PM, jay via RE-wrenches wrote: HI All, I wanted to revisit this thread for one reason. If you turn off the inverter at the remote on/off with the AUX relay, then starting the generator won't have any impact as the inverter is off. So someone will have to go and reset the AUX relay. Vs If you do a relay on the AC output, when you start the generator, it will start charging, raising the battery volts, causing the AUX relay to close AC output relay and you'll have power in the house. Am I missing something? thanks jay Here is the last email I think: Mac, I think you've got an elegant solution to the problem. All you need is an inexpensive relay and to program the Aux output for loadshed. I believe shutting down the inverter with the remote on/off contacts is actually less stressful on the inverter than opening a relay or contactor on the load side. Kent Osterberg Blue Mountain Solar On 7/11/2023 5:19 PM, Mac Lewis via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello Wrenches, I'm trying to solve an issue with an older Outback FX system. It's a quad stack of Outback 3648 FX inverters and he has a couple of Fortress eVault and an unreliable generator. The LBCO setting can't go high enough to cut out before the eVaults cut out so he occasionally will have to direct charge the eVault to get things running again.I'd like to use a 12V Aux relay logic to trip the primary inverter on/off contacts before we go into battery shutdown so the solar has a chance to recover the system. Pretty simple overall but I wanted to see if there are any known ill effects of doing this with substantial load on the system. Of course, I can use a power relay but this may be better. Thanks for your input! -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email addres
[RE-wrenches] Snapnrack end caps
Hello All, We have had a lot of end caps fall off Snapnrack Ultra Rail. Kevin at S&R was wondering if this is a common occurrence. Is it something we are doing, is it freezing and thawing or is it the design of the caps. Thank you, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Open Delta to 208Y/120 Volt
William, Sol-Ark says they can only connect to a Wye, and that they need a neutral. Thanks, Drake --- On 2023-06-06 11:34, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake: You should be able to connect to a 120/240 split phase feeder. Avoid the stinger. I have done it with FXRs , works just fine. Wm On Tue, Jun 6, 2023 at 8:11 AM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello All, We are looking for a transformer to connect Sol-Ark inverters to an open delta service. The Sol-Ark can only connect to a Wye configuration. We found one which the supplier says will do the job. It is an MGM, 240 Delta to 208Y/120 Volt, 3-Phase. The supplier says this will derive a neutral which can be grounded for a solid neutral connection. My concerns with what we have found so far are: 1) How much efficiency will be lost due to connecting to an open delta? 2) Will the derived neutral really be sufficient? 3) The cost of the unit we found is high. Does anyone know of a source for economically priced transformers. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org -- William Miller Miller Solar.com 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [1] ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.millersolar.com___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Open Delta to 208Y/120 Volt
Hello All, We are looking for a transformer to connect Sol-Ark inverters to an open delta service. The Sol-Ark can only connect to a Wye configuration. We found one which the supplier says will do the job. It is an MGM, 240 Delta to 208Y/120 Volt, 3-Phase. The supplier says this will derive a neutral which can be grounded for a solid neutral connection. My concerns with what we have found so far are: 1) How much efficiency will be lost due to connecting to an open delta? 2) Will the derived neutral really be sufficient? 3) The cost of the unit we found is high. Does anyone know of a source for economically priced transformers. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Web based system monitoring via 4GLTE uplink?
We use a Verizon Jet Pack for our internet. It wants to have its battery charged and then be unplugged, like any cell phone. Is there a variety that can be left plugged in? Charging could be set up to be intermittent with a timer switch. Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-06-05 10:16, Mac Lewis via RE-wrenches wrote: Mick, I'll vouch that the Victron solution works great. You need a GSM carrier, TMobile works as well as others, AT&T for one. The GSM piece is important, Verizon won't work with this. Another approach is to do a Mifi box with Verizon, then just use it as a wireless hotspot like any WiFi network. No problems with the single Victron that we have out there. Good luck! On Mon, Jun 5, 2023, 7:30 AM Mick Abraham via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi, Mechanix~ Web portals such as Optics-RE make for easy well-baby visits for off gridders. The prospective customers that I met yesterday aren't here full time so they may not want to commit $1200/year on satellite internet service, but the Verizon 4G signal is strong at the homesite. Which web-enabled battery based inverter platforms have a dongle for 4G LTE? I know we'd need a data type SIM card & I'd need to live with a slow refresh rate so the SIM wouldn't need data replenishment too often. This wouldn't be as good as if the site had real broadband, but maybe still better than nothing. So far, I've only found this type of accy with the Victron platform: their model GX LTE. Among the other platforms & hybrid inverters I've found next to nothing, but "the Wrench List is the Bomb" at knowing things that I don't. Any suggestions would be welcomed. Thanks in advance, Mick Abraham, Proprietor www.abrahamsolar.com [1] Landline: 970-731-4675 Cell phone or for text messaging: 970-946-6584 ᐧ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.abrahamsolar.com___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Tech Support Issues with Sensata
We had one Magnum PAE 4048 have the frequency go high. It would not AC couple. When checking the frequency, it was out of range for the on grid inverters. So far, my tech support experience with Sensata has been good. The equipment I've installed has been problematic. I like the PAE system, but the inverters keep coming back off the wall. Drake Athens Electric --- On 2023-05-31 13:50, Ray Walters via RE-wrenches wrote: 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 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] IQ Gateway outside straw bale house
There is chicken wire under the stucco. The Gateway will be near a window, which is not too far from the router. William's experience is encouraging. If it doesn't work, we will run a CAT 5. _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-04-26 11:56, Dan Fink via RE-wrenches wrote: Drake; How much chicken wire or other metal mesh is in the strawbale walls and stucco? Can you measure wifi signal strength ahead of time with a smartphone? Is it possible to hardwire Cat5 from the homeowner's router/extender/etc to the WAN port of the IQ Gateway? That is always preferable to wifi. Dan Fink Owner, Buckville Energy Consulting LLC IREC Certified Instructor for PV and Small Wind Installation NABCEP Certified PV System Inspector NABCEP PV Associate danbo...@gmail.com 970-672-4342 On Wed, Apr 26, 2023 at 9:40 AM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: We are planning to combine Enphase circuits in an IQ combiner box, with enclosed Gateway, on the outside of a straw bale house. Will the WiFi signal penetrate a straw bale and the two layers of stucco the wall is made of? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] IQ Gateway outside straw bale house
We are planning to combine Enphase circuits in an IQ combiner box, with enclosed Gateway, on the outside of a straw bale house. Will the WiFi signal penetrate a straw bale and the two layers of stucco the wall is made of? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Underground fault finder
The thumper sounds like the one to use, but what does it destroy? Does it induce a much higher voltage on the line than regular line voltage? We are dealing with open circuit problems. We can return to our original plan of digging up areas and checking for voltage on the lines with a voltage sensor. Thanks, Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-04-18 12:04, Brian Mehalic via RE-wrenches wrote: Not sure about rental sources in your area, but there are two options: 1) An underground cable fault locator, aka a "thumper," which only works on direct buried cables. It is a destructive test (at the fault location), and should only be performed when there is a known fault in order to locate it. It requires "walking" the cable run with a sensing device to hear the "thump" generated by the high current/high voltage induced on the line. 2) A time domain reflectometer (TDR), which is sort of like radar in that low energy signals are reflected by changes in cable impedance; it is non-destructive, but also not as accurate in terms of the location (providing a cable length to the fault, rather than a "thump" at the actual fault location) and typically cannot see higher resistance (≈>200 MΩ) faults that the thumper can. Brian Mehalic NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional(tm) R031508-59 National Electrical Code(R) CMP-4 Member (520) 204-6639 Solar Energy International http://www.solarenergy.org On Tue, Apr 18, 2023 at 8:27 AM Matt Sherald via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi Drake, I've rented a set-up from my electrical supply house. I'd check to see if Scott Electric/Advantage Rental serves your part of Ohio. If memory serves, it is two pieces of equipment that you need. One to trace the line and a second to find the fault. -Matt On Tue, Apr 18, 2023 at 11:20 AM Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: I understand that there is a tool that locates underground faults in buried cables. No one in our area has one. There are high tech cable tracers now, but they don't advertise that they can find underground breaks in wires. One company online had one that advertised that function. The entire kit came to $5 or $6K. Does anyone know where one can be rented. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org -- Matt Sherald PIMBY Energy, LLC 304-704-5943 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wr
[RE-wrenches] Underground fault finder
I understand that there is a tool that locates underground faults in buried cables. No one in our area has one. There are high tech cable tracers now, but they don't advertise that they can find underground breaks in wires. One company online had one that advertised that function. The entire kit came to $5 or $6K. Does anyone know where one can be rented. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] PV and EMP
Backwoods Solar sells kits to harden against EMP. I am wondering how effective they would be. Drake _Drake Chamberlin_ _Athens Electric LLC_ _Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810_ _CO Master Electrician's License 4526_ _NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional_ --- On 2023-03-08 11:49, Glenn Burt via RE-wrenches wrote: I would review Sol Arks website as they say they are immune. Probably have something to back that up published there. -Glenn Sent from my 'smart'phone, so please excuse typos and spelling errors. -- Original message-- From: Marco Mangelsdorf via RE-wrenches Date: Wed, Mar 8, 2023 11:37 AM To: RE-wrenches; Cc: Marco Mangelsdorf; Subject:[RE-wrenches] PV and EMP Aloha all, Have any of you come across any articles or white papers on how PV systems (including energy storage) fare under conditions of electromagnetic pulses and solar flares? Mahalo, marco ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Trimetric on LiFe Blue
Hello Lithium Battery Wrenches, A 48 V bank of 8, 12 V LiFe Blue batteries, 2 series sets of four in parallel, for a 400 AH bank, is being monitored by a Trimetric 2020. What should the "charged setpoint amps" be set to? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Magnum 4024PAE Won't Charge
Hello Wrenches, A Magnum 4024 won't charge batteries or transfer loads. The owner of the system, now well out of warranty, has spent hours on the phone with tech support and even took the unit into a Magnum authorized repair shop. The technician declared that it was working perfectly. On connection to the utility grid, the ME-ARC shows no sign of seeing the power. Once in a great while, it will connect and start charging batteries. Then it will quit. This seems to me like a matter of a relay not operating. The technician, who checked it out, believes that the problem is with the AC coming in. One tech support agent thought the same. The inverter is 1000' plus from the transformer. The incoming voltage, with light loads, is 248 VAC. Shouldn't the ME-ARC at least show that it sees the grid, even if the voltage dropped upon connection to the point it couldn't hold it? Isn't the Magnum charger pretty forgiving about voltage input? I've heard they can have issues with inverter-generators, but this is 60 Hz grid power. Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] 3524 VFX delay
Would that mean that the control board needs to be replaced in the master? --- On 2023-01-12 10:33, toddc...@finestplanet.com wrote: stuck relay? On Thursday, January 12, 2023 6:39am, "Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches" said: Hello Wrenches, A pair of off grid Outback VFX 3524 inverters are being used as an AC coupled backup system. They have worked flawlessly for many years. During a recent power outage it was reported that the house was dark for 20 minutes before the backup kicked on. Does anyone know what could have caused the delay? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Sent from Finest Planet WebMail.___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] 3524 VFX delay
Hello Wrenches, A pair of off grid Outback VFX 3524 inverters are being used as an AC coupled backup system. They have worked flawlessly for many years. During a recent power outage it was reported that the house was dark for 20 minutes before the backup kicked on. Does anyone know what could have caused the delay? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Utility transformer limitations
William, I ran into this once on an old transformer, which fortunately they changed at no cost. It was a 10 kW transformer on a 200 A (48 kW) service. They had some dimming of lights on heavy loads, and the transformer was changed out on that basis, at no charge. My questions for the utility would be? * Are there any other PV systems feeding the transformer? * If so, what is their maximum production. * What size is the transformer? * What percentage of transformer capacity is allowed to be back-fed. If the math comes out in your favor, you will have a good case to escalate to the next level. Good Luck, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-12-25 13:58, William Miller via RE-wrenches wrote: Wrenched: Merry Christmas to those of you that observe such traditions, or substitute the winter festivity of your choice. I helped a previous employee install an Enphase IQ8 system on his home. He applied for the utility approval concurrently with his building permit The day he got his final inspection the utility contacted him and claimed "The aggregate generation exceeds the identified transformer rating" and refused him a Permission to Operate letter. Adding up the service ratings of the homes on his secondary we get about 336 kW of potential consumption. Adding the grid-tied systems on his secondary we get about 16.5 kW. How is it that the back-feed exceeds the transformer rating? I would appreciate any insight on how to consider this situation and how to fight it. Sincerely, William Miller Miller Solar 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422 805-438-5600 www.millersolar.com [1] CA Lic. 773985 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.millersolar.com/___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Magnum MS4024 grief
If all else fails, cut the equipment ground prong from the attachment plug to the generator. The generator is internally grounded. You appear to have an internal ground in your system somewhere. --- On 2022-12-16 13:35, Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches wrote: You may have neutral and ground connected at more than 1 location, meaning at the genset and in house panel, which means the ground is carrying current back to the generator in parallel with the neutral. I remember with some Honda portables we had to float the neutral at the genset or the inverter would trip the generator's GFI when trying to charge the batteries. On Fri, Dec 16, 2022 at 1:16 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches wrote: The easy answer is try another genset ! You have to be more specific, did it ever work? Is it new? etc. 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 2022-12-16 10:04 am, Chris Daum via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi folks: We have a new Magnum MS4024 mounted on an E-Panel using a MidNite Classic 150 and Whiz-Bang JR with power coming from an array of Trina TSM365-De06X-05(II) (three strings of three) with the ME-RC50 and a HUP SolarOne 6-85-14/24 battery. When we attempt to use the PFC (Power Factored Charger), the Gen Set's GFCI outlets trip. Thus far we have verified the connections are secure, assured that the gen set is grounded, disconnected the jumper within the E-Panel between the ground buss and neutral, checked AC voltages, removed the MNSPD's from the buss(s)... Stumped now on what an appropriate next step should be. How do we get the PFC to function properly? What are we missing? Best, Chris Daum Oasis Montana Inc. 406-777-4309 or 4321 406-777-4309 fax www.oasismontana.com [1] ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org -- Kirk Herander / kirkh@vermont.solar Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC _Celebrating our 31st Anniversary 1991-2022!!_ www.vermont.solar [2] dba Vermont Solar Engineering 802.863.1202 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://www.oasismontana.com [2] https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.vermontsolarnow.com&data=02%7C01%7C%7C9f0330d75a244870112408d685311841%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435%7C1%7C0%7C636842843233477645&sdata=0NjyuKeQbEK6245SNnk8X4XnP9Q%2B%2BqtvcALkdDghvk4%3D&reserved=0___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Xantrex AC Fault 186.6v
What modules does it have? If they are susceptible to PID (Potential Induced Degradation), you may need to find an inverter with a solid negative ground. I avoided the Xantrex grid tie inverters, but am assuming the are grounded. Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-12-08 16:13, Sam Haraldson via RE-wrenches wrote: Howdy Wrenches, Any "old timers" here care to chime in with some basic info on what I might be heading out to see at a 10+ year old ground mount? It's a Xantrex displaying the message AC Fault 186.6v. I'm prepared to head out there and troubleshoot blind if no one has anything to offer up but figured why not post a quick message here in case anyone has insight they wish to share with me prior to my visit next week. Subsequently since this is a ground mount it doesn't need rapid shutdown so if the inverter has failed I probably have some decent options to replace it. If you've had good luck with a particular brand to use for swaps please share that intel as well. I don't know how big the array is so all I'm looking for is brands and not models. Most appreciated, Sam Sam Haraldson Installation & Service Manager http://www.onsiteenergyinc.com/ | o. (406) 551-6135 https://www.facebook.com/onsiteenergysolar/ https://www.instagram.com/onsiteenergyinc/ https://twitter.com/onsiteenergyinc https://www.linkedin.com/company/onsite-energy-inc/ https://onsiteenergyinc.com/bcorp ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian / Flexmax issue
Suzanne finally did get the system working. The problem was in the programming of the Mate. This was discovered by Outback Tech support with Optics. So far, no word on the exact settings involved. The batteries were not damaged. Thank you for your help. Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-10-28 07:53, Tump via RE-wrenches wrote: ISOLATE ISOLATE ISOLATE. The first thing I would do id disable the Flex net DC, next isolate each 12 v battery, ck voltages, load test, use any automotive battery tester find 4 decent batteries and try again. Have you replaced all the com cables? Cheap and w/ the possibility of Lightning strike, its a no brainer. I have seen the FNDC cause all sorts of issues due to battery issues. We at one time installed quite a few only to have issues w/ batteries that were undercharged, customers restarting the system w/ batteries that were not fully charged. When rebooted the FNDC is assuming that the batteries ARE FULLY CHARGED and have the rated capacity, which usually NOT the case. Firmwares versions are easily found in the "system info" in the M3s On Oct 26, 2022, at 8:04 PM, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote: Hello All, Suzanne Csejtey of Design Energy contacted me with an Outback Radian / Flexmax 80 system problem. I don't know what is going on with this system. Below is her description of the problem. Any help would be appreciated. -- System installed 2014. 6.6kW PV, Outback Radian 8048 inverter, (2) x Midnite Classic 200 charge controllers, 600Ah Battery bank (12 x 12V 200Ah Outback Energycell ) for backup of 100A aux panel It worked great, but the customer was always disappointed that she couldn't show her system online on one screen, because the Midnite charge controllers didn't talk to the Outback Mate 3. In 2017 the charge controllers were changed to (2) x Outback Flexmax 80's, and problems started a couple years after that. The system would shut down at least once a month, start up the next day, and the electrician couldn't find the problem but suspected grid instability. Outback tech support couldn't help until the system was on OpticsRE, late 2021. Tech support resolved the shutdown issue this year with 2 nd firmware upgrade and a few settings adjusted on Mate3. Radian GS8048 updated 2021, verified 8/2022 from tech support but I am not finding the firmware number. August 2022 tech support walked through our settings and verified all ok with batteries, CCs. Adjusted Mate3 to establish OpticsRE connection, verified not selling from battery/backup only. Worked very well until this September when a lightning storm apparently took out the internet modem and inverter comms with it. Solar and battery still working. Outback told us to replace the Mate3 and Hub, and then the FlexNet DC monitor. Latest firmware update attempted on new Mate3s when received, 001.004.007 but it was already installed and ready to go. Instead of setting everything up again from scratch after replacing Mate3 with Mate3S we decided to see if the charge controllers would repopulate the old information, as recommended in the Outback forum. Then tried to get help to verify settings from Outback support. Support had been very helpful in the past but this time we weren't so lucky and the person just let us know that wasn't their job and sent a link to the manual. But the batteries appeared to be at 100%, set not to sell, backup only, max PV self-consumption. The plan was to find more help to verify settings and keep an eye on the system. Seemed to be working very well until it went crazy last week, when the Mate showed alarm, batteries discharged down to 6%, then up to 100%, then everything shut down completely. Programming may be a big part of the issue. Also hearing that the age of the AGM batteries may have been a factor, 8 years. That sometimes dying batteries cause odd behavior? Thanks in advance. Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List r
[RE-wrenches] Radian / Flexmax issue
Hello All, Suzanne Csejtey of Design Energy contacted me with an Outback Radian / Flexmax 80 system problem. I don't know what is going on with this system. Below is her description of the problem. Any help would be appreciated. -- System installed 2014. 6.6kW PV, Outback Radian 8048 inverter, (2) x Midnite Classic 200 charge controllers, 600Ah Battery bank (12 x 12V 200Ah Outback Energycell ) for backup of 100A aux panel It worked great, but the customer was always disappointed that she couldn’t show her system online on one screen, because the Midnite charge controllers didn’t talk to the Outback Mate 3. In 2017 the charge controllers were changed to (2) x Outback Flexmax 80’s, and problems started a couple years after that. The system would shut down at least once a month, start up the next day, and the electrician couldn’t find the problem but suspected grid instability. Outback tech support couldn’t help until the system was on OpticsRE, late 2021. Tech support resolved the shutdown issue this year with 2 nd firmware upgrade and a few settings adjusted on Mate3. Radian GS8048 updated 2021, verified 8/2022 from tech support but I am not finding the firmware number. August 2022 tech support walked through our settings and verified all ok with batteries, CCs. Adjusted Mate3 to establish OpticsRE connection, verified not selling from battery/backup only. Worked very well until this September when a lightning storm apparently took out the internet modem and inverter comms with it. Solar and battery still working. Outback told us to replace the Mate3 and Hub, and then the FlexNet DC monitor. Latest firmware update attempted on new Mate3s when received, 001.004.007 but it was already installed and ready to go. Instead of setting everything up again from scratch after replacing Mate3 with Mate3S we decided to see if the charge controllers would repopulate the old information, as recommended in the Outback forum. Then tried to get help to verify settings from Outback support. Support had been very helpful in the past but this time we weren’t so lucky and the person just let us know that wasn’t their job and sent a link to the manual. But the batteries appeared to be at 100%, set not to sell, backup only, max PV self-consumption. The plan was to find more help to verify settings and keep an eye on the system. Seemed to be working very well until it went crazy last week, when the Mate showed alarm, batteries discharged down to 6%, then up to 100%, then everything shut down completely. Programming may be a big part of the issue. Also hearing that the age of the AGM batteries may have been a factor, 8 years. That sometimes dying batteries cause odd behavior? Thanks in advance. Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Looking for remote controlled contactors
I haven't had problems with contactors failing. I suspect that a lot of the problems on battery systems happen when contactors are controlled at battery voltage. The nominal voltage of the system is not what the coil will see. A 48 VDC coil might experience 63 VDC. A resistor needs to be put in series with the coil to prevent over voltage. It's value needs to be calculated so that it will function, within tolerance, at both the maximum high and minimum low voltages. A 240 V AC contactor coil, on the output of the generator, is quite reliable. The voltage it sees is within tolerance and the coil is generally not activated for extended periods (days or weeks or even years at a time). Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-10-12 07:42, Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches wrote: You are correct on this. The failure of any control hardware, IO's / relays / contactor logic along the way from generator sense to PV contactor should result in the coupled grid-tie PV inverter disconnected. Which means the contactor at the PV inverter should be energized "closed" (so PV AC connected normally open) under normal operation (genny off, PV on). Wired as such, It can be done with off the shelf components, and remotely by adding some controlbyweb.com [1] controllers. On Tue, Oct 11, 2022 at 7:49 PM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches wrote: I'm not a fan of this strategy because it is not failsafe. Contactors fail. When the coil fails to open the contactor, you will have the PV AC coupled with the generator If he normally closed contactor is used in this manner. I think the question needs to be the converse: How do you turn the PV on remotely only when the generator is not running. Jason Szumlanski Florida Solar Design Group On Tue, Oct 11, 2022, 2:45 PM Maverick Brown via RE-wrenches wrote: I'll usually use a 60 amp contactor with 240Vac coil. The generator powers the coil and opens the Normally Closed contacts disconnecting the grid tie inverter. 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 Oct 11, 2022, at 11:26 AM, Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi, I'm looking for suggestions on a remote control 60 amp contactor. It can either be true wireless or send a signal down an AC power line to open / close contact at the other end. I'm trying to figure out a non-wired way to turn an AC coupled inverter off when the generator is running, as advised by outback and others. All suggestions welcome thank you. -- Kirk Herander / kirkh@vermont.solar Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC _Celebrating our 31st Anniversary 1991-2022!!_ www.vermont.solar [2] dba Vermont Solar Engineering 802.863.1202 ___ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org -- Kirk Herander / kirkh@vermont.solar Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC _Celebrating our 31st Anniversary 1991-2022!!_ www.vermont.solar [2] dba Vermont Solar Engineering 802.863.1202 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] http://controlbyweb.com [2] https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.vermontsolarnow.com&data=02%7C01%7C%7C9f0330d75a244870112408d685311841%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435%7C1%7C0%7C636842843233477645&sdata=0NjyuKeQbEK6245SNnk8X4XnP9Q%2B%2BqtvcALkdDghvk4%3D&reserved=0___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches
Re: [RE-wrenches] AC coupled grid tie only inverter
The grid tie inverter can sell through the Magnum relay. When the grid goes down, it will feed the batteries. Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-10-07 11:42, Dave Tedeyan via RE-wrenches wrote: Hi All, I've got someone who wants to tie their off-grid system with a Magnum inverter (which I think is a 4024 PAE inverter) to the grid. Since the Magnum inverter cannot be grid tied, I was wondering if there is some kind of simple grid tie inverter that can be the grid interface, while keeping the existing system in tact. Otherwise, I see two paths here. The less expensive path would be to ditch the batteries and connect the panels to a grid tie inverter. Otherwise it seems that we will need to get another battery based inverter that is meant to be grid connected to replace the Magnum. Cheers, Dave -- [1] Dave Tedeyan, P.E. Owner | Sungineer Solar p: he | him | his a: 1653 Slaterville Rd. | Ithaca, NY 14850 w: www.sungineersolar.com [2] c: (607) 288-2898 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] https://www.sungineersolar.com/ [2] http://www.sungineersolar.com/___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Butt End Connector Warning
Our electrical supplier seamlessly transitioned from crimp on butt end connectors, that were listed for CU and AL, to unmarked ones that were approved for copper only. I became concerned since there was no marking. Calling two electrical suppliers, the guys at the counter had to look up the device to learn that they were listed for copper only. Talking to one of the counter guys, he agreed that electricians were probably using these for aluminum. Since the barrels will be insulated, it is not likely that inspectors will see them. The connectors are made of coated copper. I wonder how much of a problem this will be. Drake -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Enphase
Hello All, Looking into the Enphase Ensemble system, I'm not sure that is a direction I want to take. It seems that they are extremely complicated and require a 30 hour training course to commission. Once installed, are they reliable? Do they require on going tweaks and firmware upgrades? Will the IQ8 micro inverters taper charge with phase shift? I am considering the possibility of AC coupling some to a pair of Radians. What is the most reliable and economically feasible way to provide backup power today? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Media & Communication Action Project https://m-cap.org/ -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] White Roof Temperature
Hello Wrenches, A client installed a beautiful white standing seam roof. Suddenly their air conditioning loads dropped way down. We were planning to put an array on the roof, but she is concerned that the roof would become much hotter with dark colored solar modules over it. Is there any data on this issue? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Bifacial Modules
Are bifacial modules good products? Do they really perform as advertised? We have a potential project where they would be used on a white roof. Would that be an ideal situation? Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] off-grid AC coupling feasibility
Yes, we have a system with AC and DC coupled arrays on an off-grid system. Having DC coupled capacity is important for reasons given in other posts. We used AC coupling due to shade issues, so we could use Enphase inverters. In your case, if the house really is going to go on grid, I would think AC coupling makes sense. If not, I'd use high voltage DC charge controllers (like the Schneider 600 V units) and keep it DC. The main complaint I have with AC coupling off grid is that some lights tent to strobe in certain charging conditions. Another complaint is the 5 minute delay period after the micro-inverters shut down. The micros are phased, based on battery voltage, so they don't all shut down at once. Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor's License 44810 CO Master Electrician's License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-07-30 12:30, Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches wrote: All, Anyone out there successfully AC-coupled inverters in an off-grid system? Advantages vs. pitfalls? In my case I'm thinking of its practicality with a Solaredge inverter AC-coupled to an OB Radian inverter. OB firmware makes this pretty easy now. So effectively the Radian is always operating in a grid-backup mode. I already upgraded the system to the Radian, and soon to add 5kw of pole-mounted PV(currently only 1.8kw of 22-year old PV on the roof). This system also just got 16kwh of Blue Ion LFP batteries. This is a last-minute thought I have instead of investing in additional DC charge controllers for the new array. Cost-wise there's not much of a difference between several high-quality charge controllers and a smaller SE inverter w/optimisers. Thanks. -- Kirk Herander / kirkh@vermont.solar Owner|Principal, VT Solar, LLC _Celebrating our 31st Anniversary 1991-2022!!_ www.vermont.solar [1] dba Vermont Solar Engineering 802.863.1202 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org Links: -- [1] https://nam02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=www.vermontsolarnow.com&data=02%7C01%7C%7C9f0330d75a244870112408d685311841%7C84df9e7fe9f640afb435%7C1%7C0%7C636842843233477645&sdata=0NjyuKeQbEK6245SNnk8X4XnP9Q%2B%2BqtvcALkdDghvk4%3D&reserved=0___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Growatt systems
Does anyone have experience with Growatt systems? What do you think of them? Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase IQ7 versus IQ8
Are the IQ-7 inverters going to remain available? The additional cost of the IQ-8 micros killed one project where I couldn't find a good source for IQ-7s. Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional --- On 2022-07-12 19:03, Nick Soleil via RE-wrenches wrote: That is correct, Jay. You only need the rapid shutdown switch if you have IQ 8s and an IQ System Controller. One of the big advantages of the IQ 8 over IQ 7 when paired with storage is that the 1.5 PV to storage ratio does not apply, so you can install larger PV systems with smaller battery systems. Cordially, Nick Soleil Enphase Energy Senior Product Manager (707) 763-4784 x7267 // office (707) 321-2937 // cell Powering What's Next(tm)_ | _The Enphase Energy Management System NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer #03262011-300 California C10 Licensed Electrician #986315 - From: RE-wrenches on behalf of Jay via RE-wrenches Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2022 3:54 PM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Jay Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase IQ7 versus IQ8 EXTERNAL EMAIL - Use caution when responding, clicking, and/or downloading attachments. Hi Jason And if you don't have the smart controller/battery system then you do not need this proprietary rapid shut down switch correct? Jay On Jul 12, 2022, at 3:25 PM, Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches wrote: Yes, they require a proprietary rapid shutdown switch that connects to the smart controller. This would be in addition to a visible load break disconnect if the utility requires it. You cannot fulfill both requirements with one switch, and it requires a line voltage circuit be run from the smart controller to the rapid shutdown switch. On Tue, Jul 12, 2022, 5:15 PM Mark Frye via RE-wrenches wrote: Do you need the additional switch if you use the Enphase battery? From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches Sent: Tuesday, July 12, 2022 11:38 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Jason Szumlanski Subject: [RE-wrenches] Enphase IQ7 versus IQ8 I am trying to figure out why it is a good idea we use the IQ8 in anything other than a solar only backup scenario. If there are Enphase batteries involved, wouldn't the IQ7 do the same job on the roof? In a straight grid tied scenario, again the IQ7 would do the exact same thing. You would not have an upgrade path to solar only backup, of course. I'm just having a hard time understanding the value proposition of the IQ8 in most of the situations I encounter. They cost significantly more, and you need an additional rapid shutdown switch when using batteries that can be quite a pain in some scenarios. Am I missing something about the switching speed, energy harvest capability, or the way they interact with batteries that makes them better? P.S. I am aware of the very small power output differences by model number and I am referring exclusively to 240 volt applications. I understand the 208 volt advantages of the IQ8. Jason Szumlanski Florida Solar Design Group ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules &
Re: [RE-wrenches] WATER COOLED - 1800 RPM - 13KW GENERATORS INQUIRY
There is no regular pattern to our need for generators, but we could likely sell some. --- On 2022-07-10 16:02, Chris Daum via RE-wrenches wrote: I think we could sell a couple a year. --Chris @ the Oasis Montana From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Tump via RE-wrenches Sent: Sunday, July 10, 2022 10:54 AM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Tump Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] WATER COOLED - 1800 RPM - 13KW GENERATORS INQUIRY How many folks require UL listing to install, this may expedite delivery? On Jul 8, 2022, at 3:09 PM, Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches wrote: The question was - When might these units be available? The first request from the manu. was to get a survey of how many units might get sold per year & responses are still trickling in slowly. Next Tump & I will be in a zoom meeting with the company powers that be & at that point they need to source & design. I would bet it is out aways still depending on equipment choices/availability, testing & UL certification etc. I would not even dare to guess but when we ca report back with a date we will do so. Dana Orzel - E - d...@solarwork.com - C - 208.721.7003 From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Kevin Pegg via RE-wrenches Sent: Friday, July 8, 2022 12:59 PM To: RE-wrenches Cc: Kevin Pegg Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] WATER COOLED - 1800 RPM - 13KW GENERATORS INQUIRY Thanks for this - there is certainly demand. I could see my company buying a 3-5 per year. Is there any estimate of timeline when these might be available? Kevin From: RE-wrenches On Behalf Of Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches Sent: June-30-22 11:02 AM To: 'RE-wrenches' Cc: Dana Orzel Subject: [RE-wrenches] WATER COOLED - 1800 RPM - 13KW GENERATORS INQUIRY Hey now all you off grid designer/installers, I just had a conversation with generator manufacturer (name withheld for the moment), about 8-13KW water cooled gensets with UL & LP gas powered. I explained that there is a long time hole in the market since Onan & Kohler dropped their gensets for prime power in this size range. If they made the investment to produce & UL certify a 13KW - 1800 RPM - water cooled - 2 wire start, prime power rated - 120/240vac genset, how many off grid systems are being installed with oversized gensets? _If this was available how many units would each of you be interested in per year? _I am not asking for a commitment just a market survey for this sized unit. If there was 20-30 companies selling 4-5+ each per year this might be a possibility. Let me know either off list or on list (if this is OK ? Michael let us know) & I hope there is a possibility here for more appropriately sized & available gensets for our off grid client systems. I will be passing along this research to the OE manufacturer. If you do not want your name passed along let me know for now. Dana Orzel Great Solar Works, Inc. C - 208.721.7003 d...@solarwork.com Idaho Contractor - # 028765 Idaho PV # 028374 NABCEP # 051112-136 www.greatsolarworks.com [1] "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988" P Please consider the environment before printing this email. ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org [2] List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [3] There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ [4] http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org [5] List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm [6] Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org [7] Tump [8]3...@gmail.com www.SWNL.net [9] Solarwinds Northernlights __ _ Serving Mid Coast Maine & Northern California_ _ 207-832-7574 Cl. 610-517-8401 _ _ __Blair "TUMP" May_ MAINE'S CHARTER _ NABCEP"Certified PV Installer"_ MAINE'S CHARTER _Trace Xantrex "Certified" Dealer / Installer"_ ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: ht
[RE-wrenches] Schneider Inverter Unbalance
Hello Wrenches, A pair of Schneider XW Pro inverters will not share the load. We had used a configuration tool, with the help of Jose at tech support, and temporarily got the pair to balance. We adjusted the output voltages so that the inverters would share the load. Later the inverters started drifting. At present, one will take all the load until it reaches a point around its maximum production limit. Then that inverter will stop production and the other will take over. Is there a defective inverter? Any ideas at all about what might be going on? Thank you, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
[RE-wrenches] Module - microinverter compatibility question
I'm concerned that a microinverter - module pair that has been specified by a supplier may not work. The maximum power voltage is very close to the minimum starting voltage. The Voc is adequately high. An Aptos DNA-120-MF26-365W is paired with an Enphase IQ 7A • Minimum start voltage of the inverter is 33 V • Vmmp of the module is 33.96 V • Voc of the module is 40.7 V Is the 33 V starting voltage going to be a problem with a module STC Max power voltage of 33.96 V? Is it the Voc that determines the starting of the inverter or the Vmmp? Thanks, Drake Drake Chamberlin Athens Electric LLC Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810 CO Master Electrician’s License 4526 NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional -- ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org Change listserver email address & settings: http://lists.re-wrenches.org/options.cgi/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org There are two list archives for searching. When one doesn't work, try the other: https://www.mail-archive.com/re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org/ http://lists.re-wrenches.org/pipermail/re-wrenches-re-wrenches.org List rules & etiquette: http://www.re-wrenches.org/etiquette.htm Check out or update participant bios: http://www.members.re-wrenches.org
