[RE-wrenches] Optics Off Line???

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Seems Optics is off line again.  Anyone have news?

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™

CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Small Wind Thread

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Of the other 2 or 3. PIKAs you installed are you aware of any failures?  I
installed one at my place and had to sell it to one of'
my customers when I found out that they were sold out, not aware that
they were not going to make any more.
It worked great for me and is still running fine at my customers' high
elevation home site.  I get a lot of requests for
a similar sized turbine but can't  find anything.  I'm still trying to
get in contact with a Florida distributor of the Bornay 1.5 kw 2 blade
turbine which is the only one I can find in the weight and price range
to go on old Bergy XL.1 towers. I really liked the Pika as it was
extremely quiet, no problem with a 1000'  power run with the high voltage
DC output, good monitoring and excellent voltage control. I was planning to
add solar at the wind site as that wind site was also the best solar site
on my property.  I still have the PV link. I'm giving a small wind workshop
at the Energy Fair in Custer and once again having a hard time finding a
reliable wind turbine to recommend. Almost all my current customers are off
grid and wind power really helps in our New England winter. About half
of my XL.1 installs are still running but the noise level is an issue
on several and they have to shut them down to keep the neighbors happy
during significant wind events. Any suggestions?


John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™

CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com

On Wed, May 29, 2024 at 10:56 PM Jeremy Rodriguez 
wrote:

> We installed 5 or 6 in Colorado.
> I know of 3 still operating
>
>
> Jeremy Rodriguez
> Solar Installation / Design
> All Solar, Inc.
> 1453 M St.
> Penrose Colorado 81240
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand.
>
> On May 29, 2024, at 6:45 PM, John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> 
> Thanks Dan for the suggestion
> Anyone out there know of a PIKA T701 wind turbine currently flying.
> Supposedly 100 were made and there may be 20 or more in Alaska but I only
> know of 2 in Vermont and would like to hear from other users.
>
> John Blittersdorf
>
> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™
>
> CV Wind Service (and solar)
>
> 200 West Road
>
> N Chittenden, VT 05763
>
> 802-770-8625
>
> www.offgridvermont.com
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[RE-wrenches] Small Wind Thread

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Thanks Dan for the suggestion
Anyone out there know of a PIKA T701 wind turbine currently flying.
Supposedly 100 were made and there may be 20 or more in Alaska but I only
know of 2 in Vermont and would like to hear from other users.

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installation Professional™

CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] NOS SMA-41

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jeremy,
I’m looking for the same inverter as well.  I was just going to post info
on a PV upgrade for one of my oldest customers currently running a grid tie
with backup installed in  2002.  It is a Trace SW4024 with 3 MX60's and 3
TOP racks of 12 Sunwize 110's.  I am going to repanel with 24 365 watt
panels or higher with some continuing to feed into 2 FM80’s and the rest of
the PV direct grid tied.  I was looking at the Secure Power supply as a
source when grid was out to feed the additional power to the batteries
through 2 iota DLS  24v 40 amps chargers in a longer outage.  It looks like
the new SMA 3.8 hybrid inverter would also work but may not yet be
available.

John.

On Tue, May 28, 2024 at 7:Jeremy Rodriguez via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Looking for an SB3.8-1SP-US-41 if anyone has one please contact me off
> list
>
>
>
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/1453+M+St.+%0D%0A+Penrose+Colorado+81240?entry=gmail=g>
> Jeremy Rodriguez
> Solar Installation / Design
> All Solar, Inc.
> 1453 M St.
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/1453+M+St.+%0D%0A+Penrose+Colorado+81240?entry=gmail=g>
>
> Penrose Colorado 81240
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/1453+M+St.+%0D%0A+Penrose+Colorado+81240?entry=gmail=g>
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] UL batteries for open loop

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jay,
I have had good luck with Fortress eVaults with Radians.  3 eVault
18.4’s would do the trick. My only off grid customer running generator free
in Vermont winters has 3 vaults and a Radian.

John

On Mon, May 20, 2024 at 7:22 PM jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> HI All
>
> I got a call from a fellow installer who needs a UL listed lithium
> battery.
> Say 30-50 kwh.  open loop as its working with existing OB radians.
> Could be outside or inside
>
> It so confusing to find the right battery I’d thought I would ask what
> folks are using/recommending.
>
> thanks
>
> jay
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Optics

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Mine are down also since 2pm EDT yesterday

John Blittersdorf.

On Sat, May 18, 2024 at 12:17 PM William Miller via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Friends:
>
> 100% of our Optics sites are down since 11 AM yesterday. Is it just us?
>
> William Miller
> Miller Solar.com
> 805-438-5600
> www.millersolar.com
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Another one bites the dust?

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Nick,
Zonna Energy has replacement boards for Outback inverters.  Recently
Outback support started suggesting calling Zonna for out of warranty tech
support.
Zonnaenergy.com
(330) 674-1750

John Blittersdorf
On Wed, May 8, 2024 at 11:17 AM Nicholas Ponzio via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

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

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

William,
  I have often installed an iota DLS charger on systems with Fortress
batteries to jump start the battery if it shuts down due to low voltage
when the generator has failed. A small generator such as a Honda 2000 can
get the system running.  We even managed to keep an off grid rental ski
house with 8 people there for a Holiday weekend running
With a Honda 2000 regularly refueled by the renter.  The system is an 8000
watt Radian and 1 eVault, 5Kw of solar and 12 Kw generator which had failed
brushes. If the battery shuts itself off due to low voltage solar becomes
worthless as well.

John Blittersdorf




On Wed, May 8, 2024 at 1:17 AM William Miller via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Friends:
>
>
>
> I am still wrestling with problems integrating a Sunny Island / Sunny Boy
> AC coupled system to a set of 5 E-vault Max battery cabinets.
>
>
>
> As a refresher, with closed loop comms, the Frequency Shift Power Control
> system is not working, or not working quickly enough, and when nearing full
> charge, the voltage can spike up to 66 volts and the SI system shuts down.
> Fortress has told me in a roundabout way that they agree this is a real
> problem and they are working on a solution.
>
>
>
> Another problem has reared its head:  If the E-Vaults do not get charged
> fully every 5 to 7 days, the BMS units SOC value becomes radically out of
> calibration.  The E-vault will report a higher SOC than is realistic.  The
> SI system starts the generator based on SOC and if the SOC is reported as
> high the generator don’t start.  Sooner rather than later the battery
> voltage gets too low and the system shuts down.
>
>
>
> I have been tweaking on the settings like days-since-full-charge to
> attempt to get this cycle to stop.  No definitive answer yet.
>
>
>
> Here is the reason I am writing:  Yesterday I could not get the Sunny
> Islands to start.  The battery voltage was 46 which should have been enough
> but for some reason they just would not start.  Because of this I could not
> charge the batteries from generator or from AC coupled solar.  I called SMA
> but they told me they could not advise because of the non-compatible
> batteries.  I asked about the emergency charging procedure in the manual
> but I was told this does not work with lithium batteries.  The process is
> pretty scary anyway so I was not inclined to try.
>
>
>
> SMA told me I may need an external 48 volt charging system.  I have heard
> of this being required in certain scenarios by wrenches.  This would be a
> huge pain in the ass: ordering one, waiting for it, hooking it up, etc.
>
>
>
> Here is what I did:  I initiated the Quick Start Configuration mode and
> told the SI system there was a new battery bank.  I told it the bank was a
> very small VRLA battery.   The SI system accepted the 46 volts, started up
> and allowed a generator charge.  After an hour or so we reprogrammed the
> system for lithium and problem resolved, at least for now.
>
>
>
> Hopefully this trick may help one of you some day.  If it does, it was
> worth my time typing it out.
>
>
>
> William
>
>
>
> Miller Solar
>
> 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422
>
> 805-438-5600
>
> www.millersolar.com
>
> CA Lic. 773985
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 120 Vac and 12Vdc mixed distribution system

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Shifting the small off grid thread a little, I'm trying to find replacement
wind turbines for the Bergey XL.1 in the 1-2 kw range that is quiet and the
blades don't blow off.
Bergey is suggesting Bornay 1kw.  Does anyone have first hand
knowledge about this turbine or the manufacturer.  I am interested in
performance, sourcing etc. After having to sell my Pika T701 to a
customer i have tried cheap ($1000) chinese that turned out to be a 300
watt turbine and didn't last a year before the hub casting broke and the
blade and turbine landed 200' from the tower in pieces.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service

On Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 11:33 PM Dan Fink via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> John; I had quite a few Trace DR series in the field back in the day, but
> only one left alive today, fortunately in my guest cabin and not at a
> client's house. They had a pretty OK waveform for a modified square wave
> inverter, but some modern appliances were just a no-go with a DR, including
> some microwaves, LED lights, cordless tool chargers, fridges, and washers.
> I also found them particularly sensitive to lightning damage, we had a
> single strike that took out every DR within a 1/2 mile radius.
> Good product at a nice price point for the era, but honestly if given a
> choice I'd take a Trace U-series over a DR now. Fortunately we have better
> waveform options now too!
> Dan Fink
> Owner, Buckville Energy Consulting LLC
> IREC Certified Instructor for PV and Small Wind Installation
> NABCEP Certified PV System Inspector
> NABCEP PV Associate
> d anbo...@gmail.com
> 970-672-4342
>
> On Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 8:50 PM John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> I have a new client wanting to upgrade an old system with DR inverter, 4
>> golf cart batteries Trace C40 CC and two small PV panels. The system was
>> definitely installed by a professional with breakers and switched and I
>> am looking at the photo the customer emailed to me and other than upsizing
>> the PV array and new batteries, there seems to be no reason to change the
>> inverter which is very energy efficient. His loads are minimal with  a
>> vacuum the only load to be
>> added.  Another customer called about 18 years after I installed his DR
>> system,  Seems that the inverter failed. He had replaced the batteries once
>> or twice and no
>> other issues.  Got there to check out the failure, I had voltage at the
>> inverter DC connections. So I pushed the TINY little black start button and
>> it fired right up.
>> This system had been so reliable that he had forgotten that there was and
>> on/off reset button. For now though, I'm sticking with Outback in spite of
>> the FM100
>> seeming to have hair trigger GFCI circuit  As with many of my clients
>> off-grid second home with a view, access is sometimes difficult so I rely
>> heavily on OpticRE
>> to make sure their lights are on and to keep micro managing customers off
>> my back when they call ask why the solar input is only 1200 watts when they
>> have 7K of panels on a perfect sunny day. I look at optics and their
>> batteries are full... DUH  I even have two Magnum systems (not my install)
>> with FM60's with AUX Relay so I can use MATE3 & OpticsRE to check battery
>> voltage, charging, setting charging perameters and start and stop the
>> generator remotely.
>>
>> John
>>
>> ___
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 120 Vac and 12Vdc mixed distribution system

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I have a new client wanting to upgrade an old system with DR inverter, 4
golf cart batteries Trace C40 CC and two small PV panels. The system was
definitely installed by a professional with breakers and switched and I am
looking at the photo the customer emailed to me and other than upsizing the
PV array and new batteries, there seems to be no reason to change the
inverter which is very energy efficient. His loads are minimal with  a
vacuum the only load to be
added.  Another customer called about 18 years after I installed his DR
system,  Seems that the inverter failed. He had replaced the batteries once
or twice and no
other issues.  Got there to check out the failure, I had voltage at the
inverter DC connections. So I pushed the TINY little black start button and
it fired right up.
This system had been so reliable that he had forgotten that there was and
on/off reset button. For now though, I'm sticking with Outback in spite of
the FM100
seeming to have hair trigger GFCI circuit  As with many of my clients
off-grid second home with a view, access is sometimes difficult so I rely
heavily on OpticRE
to make sure their lights are on and to keep micro managing customers off
my back when they call ask why the solar input is only 1200 watts when they
have 7K of panels on a perfect sunny day. I look at optics and their
batteries are full... DUH  I even have two Magnum systems (not my install)
with FM60's with AUX Relay so I can use MATE3 & OpticsRE to check battery
voltage, charging, setting charging perameters and start and stop the
generator remotely.

John

On Fri, Apr 26, 2024 at 5:39 PM Jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I’ve had no issues with qo over the years for 12v except if they get dirt
> in them from mud dobber wasps.
>
> Jay
>
> On Apr 26, 2024, at 9:05 AM, Darryl Thayer via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> 
> I agree with John also.  one of the better-performing off-grid houses I
> worked on used a 48 to 12-V Samlex converter. The 12-volt thick-walled
> refrigerator was about 4 amps at 12 volts. The lights, radio, and small TV
> drew very few amps each/  I also used an Outback 3648 inverter, which the
> homeowner turned on only. when needed (wash machine, etc.), I used SQ-D QO
> panel board in case the owner wanted to go to 120 volt AC future breaker
> panel. All lighting was Edison base lamps, and all wiring was NMB Romex.  I
> wired like a normal house except for a 120-v panel and 12-v panel I relay
> and momentary switch by appliance for easy turning on of AC inverter.
>
> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 8:49 AM Jay via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> I agree with John.
>>
>> Most 12v fridges have small compressors. But I don’t know what they have.
>> Personally a major reason to go 120/ac is to get a normal refrigerator.
>>
>> But you can measure the surge/load  and then size the charger
>> accordingly.
>>
>> One feature of going charger is the lights are a lot brighter at night
>> and last longer because they are not at 15v during the day.
>>
>> Jay
>>
>>
>> On Apr 24, 2024, at 5:01 AM, John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>> 
>> Jason,
>>   I have a customer with the same situation except he already has a 12 V
>> VFX inverter,  He has a sunfrost fridge and other small loads with a very
>> fancy custom control board
>> originally set up to handle AC and DC systems.  We are adding a lot more
>> solar and I was considering a dual battery system but the owner didn't like
>> that idea.  We are going with and Iota 12v power supply (i use one at my
>> house for my sunfrost) to power up all his DC loads and will be adding a
>> large 48 V battery bank and over 4Kw of solar using a VFXR3648 directly in
>> place of the 12V inverter.  He complained that the existing inverter would
>> not handle all his current AC loads very well.  My own house is fully wired
>> for 12VDC as well as AC (lots of #10 copper not being used) and I have been
>> considering getting a small LFP 12V battery to put back on by DC System.
>> Then use the Iota as a secondary charging method with some of my large
>> stash of older modules hooked up for 12V direct with C40 charge controller
>> to recreate my original system just for kicks. I'm only using DC for my
>> Sunfrost and one "emergency light" in the livingroom right now.  For your
>> customer, a small LFP 12v battery (approximately $500 or less) to replace
>> his old battery bankm and more larger ones for the new AC side with 48V
>> inverter fed by his generator or through an Iota 48 V charger ifusing a
&

Re: [RE-wrenches] 120 Vac and 12Vdc mixed distribution system

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jason,
  Just using the converter works fine. They are considered a battery
charger or a regulated power supply. I am currently running that way now
with the battery cables going nowhere.  I was thinking of putting the
battery back in the system just for triple redundancy when my inverter hits
low battery cutoff voltage on a cold winter night and no fuel for the
generator (or it won't start).
My Iota DLS puts out a regulated 13.4 volts up to 30 amps.

John

On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 8:25 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Ah ha! I didn't consider using a small 12V battery with a charger. I was
> thinking of just using a 120V -> 12V converter to handle the DC loads. Is
> the 12V battery really necessary, or can I just power the DC loads directly
> with a converter? If I just have lights and fans on the DC system, the load
> should be pretty minimal.
>
> I could use a separate 12V battery, but I would like to eliminate that
> cost and complexity if possible.
>
>
> And yeah, I am not considering this a money making opportunity. It's
> really just a challenge to ward off boredom from the daily grind.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>
>
> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 8:01 AM John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Jason,
>>   I have a customer with the same situation except he already has a 12 V
>> VFX inverter,  He has a sunfrost fridge and other small loads with a very
>> fancy custom control board
>> originally set up to handle AC and DC systems.  We are adding a lot more
>> solar and I was considering a dual battery system but the owner didn't like
>> that idea.  We are going with and Iota 12v power supply (i use one at my
>> house for my sunfrost) to power up all his DC loads and will be adding a
>> large 48 V battery bank and over 4Kw of solar using a VFXR3648 directly in
>> place of the 12V inverter.  He complained that the existing inverter would
>> not handle all his current AC loads very well.  My own house is fully wired
>> for 12VDC as well as AC (lots of #10 copper not being used) and I have been
>> considering getting a small LFP 12V battery to put back on by DC System.
>> Then use the Iota as a secondary charging method with some of my large
>> stash of older modules hooked up for 12V direct with C40 charge controller
>> to recreate my original system just for kicks. I'm only using DC for my
>> Sunfrost and one "emergency light" in the livingroom right now.  For your
>> customer, a small LFP 12v battery (approximately $500 or less) to replace
>> his old battery bankm and more larger ones for the new AC side with 48V
>> inverter fed by his generator or through an Iota 48 V charger ifusing a
>> smaller non charging inverter. Unlike Dave, I like these challenges. Maybe
>> thats why I never seem to make money.!!
>>
>> John Blittersdorf
>> offgridvermont.com
>>
>>
>> On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 7:22 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Fortunately, the owner is pretty handy and is willing to live with any
>>> negative consequences. That said, I want to offer him something as simple
>>> and bulletproof as possible. I am walking into this with eyes wide open,
>>> for sure.
>>>
>>> Jason Szumlanski
>>> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
>>> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
>>> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
>>> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>>>
>>>
>>> On Tue, Apr 23, 2024 at 5:47 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via
>>> RE-wrenches  wrote:
>>>
>>>> Not being helpful but I  walk away from these.  It will come back to you.
>>>>
>>>> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
>>>> "we go where powerlines don't"
>>>><http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>https://offgridsolar1.com/ 
>>>> <https://offgridsolar1.com/>  <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
>>>> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
>>>> text 209 813 0060*
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> On 2024-04-23 2:40 pm, Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches wrote:
>>>>
>>>> I have an off-grid client who is working on replacing old equipment at
>>>> a cabin. He has a lot of 12 volt distribution in the 

Re: [RE-wrenches] 120 Vac and 12Vdc mixed distribution system

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jason,
  I have a customer with the same situation except he already has a 12 V
VFX inverter,  He has a sunfrost fridge and other small loads with a very
fancy custom control board
originally set up to handle AC and DC systems.  We are adding a lot more
solar and I was considering a dual battery system but the owner didn't like
that idea.  We are going with and Iota 12v power supply (i use one at my
house for my sunfrost) to power up all his DC loads and will be adding a
large 48 V battery bank and over 4Kw of solar using a VFXR3648 directly in
place of the 12V inverter.  He complained that the existing inverter would
not handle all his current AC loads very well.  My own house is fully wired
for 12VDC as well as AC (lots of #10 copper not being used) and I have been
considering getting a small LFP 12V battery to put back on by DC System.
Then use the Iota as a secondary charging method with some of my large
stash of older modules hooked up for 12V direct with C40 charge controller
to recreate my original system just for kicks. I'm only using DC for my
Sunfrost and one "emergency light" in the livingroom right now.  For your
customer, a small LFP 12v battery (approximately $500 or less) to replace
his old battery bankm and more larger ones for the new AC side with 48V
inverter fed by his generator or through an Iota 48 V charger ifusing a
smaller non charging inverter. Unlike Dave, I like these challenges. Maybe
thats why I never seem to make money.!!

John Blittersdorf
offgridvermont.com


On Wed, Apr 24, 2024 at 7:22 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Fortunately, the owner is pretty handy and is willing to live with any
> negative consequences. That said, I want to offer him something as simple
> and bulletproof as possible. I am walking into this with eyes wide open,
> for sure.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Principal Solar Designer | Florida Solar Design Group
> NABCEP Certified Solar Professional (PVIP)
> Florida State Certified Solar Contractor CVC56956
> Florida Certified Electrical Contractor EC13013208
>
>
> On Tue, Apr 23, 2024 at 5:47 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via
> RE-wrenches  wrote:
>
>> Not being helpful but I  walk away from these.  It will come back to you.
>>
>> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
>> "we go where powerlines don't"
>><http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>https://offgridsolar1.com/ 
>> <https://offgridsolar1.com/>  <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
>> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
>> text 209 813 0060*
>>
>>
>> On 2024-04-23 2:40 pm, Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches wrote:
>>
>> I have an off-grid client who is working on replacing old equipment at a
>> cabin. He has a lot of 12 volt distribution in the house for lighting,
>> fans, and a 12 volt refrigerator. He also has 120 volt AC loads that run
>> through a separate distribution panel where the only source is a 2000 Watt
>> Honda generator. There is no inverter present. The batteries are charged
>> through a Trace C40.
>>
>> He currently has a few ancient solar panels and a struggling Bank of AGM
>> batteries. It's time for an upgrade. I can easily supply enough PV power
>> for what he needs. He currently has a 9 kilowatt hour battery capacity that
>> he was happy with when the batteries operated optimally. Nonetheless, I
>> would probably future-proof him with a 10 to 15 kilowatt hour LiPo to
>> double or triple his usable capacity.
>>
>> For convenience, obviously it would be nice to have an inverter to
>> eliminate or reduce the generator requirement. But he seems committed to
>> keeping his 12 volt distribution because it would be costly to replace
>> fixtures. I think he would consider replacing the 12 volt refrigerator if
>> he has an inverter.
>>
>> He definitely wants LiPo batteries.
>>
>> I don't like the idea of 12 volt direct from a battery plus connecting an
>> inverter to that same battery. It is going to be hard to measure and
>> monitor things.
>>
>> I am thinking about using a 48 volt battery with a single phase 120 volt
>> inverter, getting him to change to a 120 volt refrigerator, and using a DC
>> converter to give him somewhere in the range of 100 amps at 12 volts for
>> his existing DC lighting and fan loads. Is this a bad idea? Should I stick
>> with a 12 volt battery system? He does have a tiny 12 volt pressure pump
>> which might be an issue for the converter. I'm not sure. I am a bit worried
>> about the efficiency loss and capacity of DC converters and not sure how to
>> size it.
>>
>> Jason Szumlanski
>> Florida Solar Design Group
>>
>>
>>
>>

Re: [RE-wrenches] midnite new inverter

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Bill,
   Now that you mention it I did not have an SPD near the inverter,  I have
one  on 1 of 2 TOP Racks, other rack with old Delta... My inverter lives on
my workbench to allow swapping other inverters in for load testing using my
whole house with everything connected to ancient wiring which did not
include an SPD.  I put them on all my customers' systems and have had no
issues on most of them and have never had to replace one. .  I have removed
lots of those grey cans but have not taken care of my own system !!!  The
Fortress eflex was not fully protected either.  That strike would have been
the perfect test of the SPD's if I had them all installed. I  had a perfect
real world test of
Outbacks ACA with surge protection  on two GVFX inverters that had annual
lightning failure until I installed their surge protectors.  There have
been no more failures since (at least 10 years)  The lightning was so
severe at that  location that the power company was constantly having
issues on that power line.

John


On Fri, Apr 12, 2024 at 12:31 AM Bill Battagin via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> John,
>
> Just curious if you had SPDs (like Midnites) in either
> system?  AC side, DC side
>
> Bill
>
> Feather River Solar Electric
> Bill Battagin, owner
> 4291 Nelson St. (Shipping)
> 5575 Genesee Rd. (USPS, UPS)
> Taylorsville, CA  95983
> 530-284-7849, 258-1641(cell)
> CA. C10 Lic # 874049
> Solar Powered since 1982
> Home of the Sunny Side Up
>
> On 4/10/2024 6:01 AM, John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> Time will tell where the failure modes are.   I still don't like all the
> eggs in one basket. Do you have to send the units back for repair?  Had
> enough of that with Trace SW series inverters..
> For off grid, I'll stick to the tried and true for now.  For Grid tie it
> is just a financial hit.  For off-grid power loss it is more important
> to deal with right away..
>
> I am going to try a Fortress Envy at my off grid home but will keep my
> Outback field repairable VFXR wired in just in case. I had a massive
> lightning strike between my house and a guest cabin 1/4 mile away and I
> lost power from my Fortress Eflex battery at the cabin and my Outback
> inverter at my house.  I replaced the control board on my inverter ( I
> always keep one in reserve as it is usually the only board failure due to
> lightning)  and was back on line in 1/2 hour and Fortress rushed me a new
> BMS board for the E-flex and a day later and a half hour swap had it back
> in service,  Now it is a different story with 2 Simpliphi batteries I have
> from a customer that failed.  I have to ship them to California to have
> them evaluated to see if we had damaged them by misuse.  Lots of expense
> and time lost.
>
>
>
> John Blittersdorf
> CV Wind Service / Off Grid Vermont
> 802-770-8625
>
> On Tue, Apr 9, 2024 at 11:43 PM Scot Arey via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Wow, are we in the golden age of inverter/chargers? If it had 200-a.p
>> pass thru it would be near perfect.
>>
>> Begs the question: are stand alone charge controllers becoming a
>> historical artifact?
>>
>> Howard "Scot" Arey
>> Owner, Solar CenTex
>> 254-300-1228
>> ___
>> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance
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Re: [RE-wrenches] midnite new inverter

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Time will tell where the failure modes are.   I still don't like all the
eggs in one basket. Do you have to send the units back for repair?  Had
enough of that with Trace SW series inverters..
For off grid, I'll stick to the tried and true for now.  For Grid tie it is
just a financial hit.  For off-grid power loss it is more important to deal
with right away..

I am going to try a Fortress Envy at my off grid home but will keep my
Outback field repairable VFXR wired in just in case. I had a massive
lightning strike between my house and a guest cabin 1/4 mile away and I
lost power from my Fortress Eflex battery at the cabin and my Outback
inverter at my house.  I replaced the control board on my inverter ( I
always keep one in reserve as it is usually the only board failure due to
lightning)  and was back on line in 1/2 hour and Fortress rushed me a new
BMS board for the E-flex and a day later and a half hour swap had it back
in service,  Now it is a different story with 2 Simpliphi batteries I have
from a customer that failed.  I have to ship them to California to have
them evaluated to see if we had damaged them by misuse.  Lots of expense
and time lost.



John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service / Off Grid Vermont
802-770-8625

On Tue, Apr 9, 2024 at 11:43 PM Scot Arey via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Wow, are we in the golden age of inverter/chargers? If it had 200-a.p pass
> thru it would be near perfect.
>
> Begs the question: are stand alone charge controllers becoming a
> historical artifact?
>
> Howard "Scot" Arey
> Owner, Solar CenTex
> 254-300-1228
> ___
> 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
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Good tech support

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Howie,
I might be interested in taking the Envy off your hands.  I haven't
made the move from Outback equipment but have joined the LFP world. I also
like to test
new products on my own off grid system and have 3 e-Flex batteries.
Contact me off list if interested.

John Blittersdorf
john.blittersd...@gmail.co



On Thu, Mar 28, 2024 at 12:30 AM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> William,
>
> I am sure that I am not the only one on the list that appreciates your
> willingness to share your experience, well thought out analysis, and
> solutions.  As always, thank you for your insights and ideas. And thanks
> for taking the time to highlight your positive interactions with Fortress.
>
> I too have had generally good experience with Fortress's support, which is
> no small part of why I've chosen to install many eVault Max cabinets,
> particularly for off grid systems. This is also,  in part, why I chose to
> try their Envy inverter in my off-grid house that currently has an older
> 1300 ah lead acid battery bank (whenever I have the opportunity to try new
> to me equipment in my own place, I do so).
>
> I have used Sol-Ark in many installs, and have been generally pleased with
> them, but am growing weary of firmware updates that cause problems and
> errors between disparate brands. This issue has only grown more critical
> and troublesome with the advent of closed loop communications between
> hybrid inverters and Lithium BMSs.
>
> So I was anxious to try the Envy,  which is promoted as working with many
> Lithium batteries in closed loop, as well as Lead acid, both on and off
> grid. I should have done more research before buying it for use in this
> setting.
>
> In short,  in my opinion, the Envy is woefully inadequate for use with
> lead acid batteries. The programming and capabilities for use with a Lead
> Acid battery bank are on the verge of useless. And regrettably, in trying
> to understand how to set it up and dealing with what turned out to be
> serious shortcomings, talking with their support for many hours over
> several calls about this, was even more abysmal.  I was basically  told
> that I should not use the Envy with L-A  batteries, it wasn't  designed for
> such use, and if i did so, that was at my own peril (not their exact
> words). This inspite of their sales team and advertising saying otherwise.
> It was one of the worst support  interactions I've  had since talking with
> Xantrex (about issues with their TM500 meter interfering with the C40's
> functionality) 20 years ago. This was not the experience I was hoping for.
>
> I don't typically bad mouth a company here, especially one that I've
> enjoyed good results with. My preference is to highlight
> companies/equipment that have worked well for me. However, I have made
> multiple attempts to email their support team, their sales team and their
> higher level tech,  with absolutely no response.  Crickets. Now I am
> frustrated, hence this missive.
>
> I will be replacing the Envy with another more appropriately designed
> inverter. Hopefully, I will be able to do something useful with it.
>
> Howie Michaelson
>
>
> On Wed, Mar 27, 2024, 10:14 PM William Miller via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Friends:
>>
>>
>>
>> Some of you may remember the problems I am having integrating a set of
>> Fortress batteries with an off-grid Sunny Island/Sunny Boy ac-coupled
>> system.  If not, here
>> <https://millersolar.com/MillerSolar/case_studies/36_SIFortress/36_SunnyIslandFortressIntegration.html>
>> is the case study.
>>
>>
>>
>> The problem has been in abeyance for the last few months because due to
>> short days and cloudy weather.  There has not been enough sunshine to cause
>> a recurrence.  Now that spring has sprung the problem is back.
>>
>>
>>
>> I did come up with a work-around:  I installed a contactor to disconnect
>> the Sunny Boys whenever the SOC gets to 90%.  This works but it does waste
>> some solar capability.
>>
>>
>>
>> I have been working with Fortress on the issue.  They have been in touch
>> and have been very generous in offering support and spending time trying to
>> find a solution.  Most important they have admitted the problem exists.
>>
>>
>>
>> To me this is very refreshing.  This makes me want to use more Fortress
>> products and sing their praises.  I think my fellow wrenches would want to
>> know about this great support when contemplating which battery products to
>> use, which is the reason for this post.
>>
>>
>>
>> Below 

Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback Board Repair

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I just tried to get Outback tech support and the message was if the product
is under warranty, stay on the line for next available rep.  If not
warranty. contact Zonna Energy or NAZ Solar !

On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 10:14 PM Bradley Bassett via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Regarding AEE and off grid support, I'm not really in touch with them much
> any more so I can't say. You could ask Glenn Hall, he'd be able to say if
> he's heard anything about hiring a new tech.  Of course finding someone
> with much off grid experience would be hard. Glenn and Alex do have some
> experience and may be able to help out.
>
> Brad
>
> On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 12:15 PM Nick A Lucchese via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Zonna is a dependable resource. I often find they have more repair boards
>> and parts in their inventory than Outback does themselves. Whether the
>> older legacy boards or newer VFXR series, Zonna has them. I think of them
>> as the off grid distributor solution provider that AEE used to be known for.
>>
>> Bradley B., has AEE made any effort to hire anyone that can attempt to
>> offer the type of support and knowledge you were known for? Perhaps this is
>> the reason they are phasing out Outback?
>>
>> Wallace, am I understanding correctly that they now offer repair services
>> or refurbished board sets? I’ve only purchased new from them in the past
>> and last time it seemed Kris Stone was perhaps too overburdened for an
>> expedient repair solution. Judging by the amount of failures myself or
>> other off grid focused Outback dealers out there I imagine Kris would be
>> tied up for years! Not trying to throw any negativity towards Outback as I
>> know many are trying to deal with growing pains and providing sufficient
>> support but it can certainly be painful at times. Really looking forward to
>> going all in on Midnite’s newest offerings once they get the comms box out.
>> Really loving the Barcelona and Rosie so far.
>>
>> Nick
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Feb 21, 2024, at 11:23 AM, Wallace Stahle via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>> Zonna Energy is one option.  Thats zone-ah
>>
>> I sent them a faulty radian stack after they sent me a repaired one.
>>
>> 330-674-1750.   Ask for Amos or  Ext. 2.   zonnaenergy.com
>>
>> On Feb 21, 2024, at 11:00 AM, Matt Sherald via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> I'm looking to move along some damaged Outback (GVFX and VFX) boards.
>>
>> I found an older thread referencing Kris Stone, but didn't have luck with
>> the email.
>>
>> Any suggestions would be appreciated.  Thanks!
>>
>> --
>> Matt Sherald
>> PIMBY Energy, LLC
>> 304-704-5943
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Rugged Wind/Solar System For Radio

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Ray, I will check with my customer.  They purchased it and I was only
involved building a tower and installing.

On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 9:41 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Who carries the Superwind turbines?  We've been looking for a replacement
> for the old Bergey XL1 to offer clients.
>
> Thanks,
>
> Ray Walters
> Remote Solar
> On 2/21/2024 7:20 PM, John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> As far as wind is concerned, I recommend SuperWind, made in Germany.  It
> is well built and designed to handle high winds.  It is rated at 1000 watts
> and I have seen data showing over 1kwhr for an hour increment.  Typically
> it is outputting 100 to 300 watts. My customer found it on line and asked
> what I thought about it.  I had not heard of it before but the specs
> sounded good.  I already had upgraded their system from a disaster (they
> actually burned up the power room )  I installed an Outback VFX3648 on an
> epanel and installed 6 panels on the remnants of their original building
> and then added 4 DPW racks of 3 panels each so they could tilt for winter
> snow.  16 L16 wet cells. They do maintenance frequently enough to keep an
> eye on water level. It worked pretty well, but they still had too much
> generator time in the winter when it was hard to get propane up the
> mountain.  I then installed their Superwind on a 35" tilt up tower next to
> their 50' comm tower.  Since the mountaintop has good winds during the
> winter, it has saved them 75% of their generator time and consequently they
> have not had to refuel in the winter at all.  We monitor it with opticsRE
> and also with some of their transmitter data.  Their load is about 300
> watts 24/7 with it dropping off a little late at night.
> It is a repeater site for business band radios, police, emergency etc.
> John Blittersdorf
> CV Wind Service.
>
> On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 2:02 PM Mark Frye via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Gentlefolk,
>>
>> I have a 35 watt radio transmitter that I need to station in the desert
>> for a critical application.
>>
>> Any recommendations for a turnkey provider of a combined
>> solar/wind/battery system?
>>
>> Should I build it myself?
>>
>> Thanks,
>>
>> Mark Frye
>> Berkeley Solar Electric Systems
>> 530 401 8024
>> ___
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Pay optional 

Re: [RE-wrenches] Rugged Wind/Solar System For Radio

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

As far as wind is concerned, I recommend SuperWind, made in Germany.  It is
well built and designed to handle high winds.  It is rated at 1000 watts
and I have seen data showing over 1kwhr for an hour increment.  Typically
it is outputting 100 to 300 watts. My customer found it on line and asked
what I thought about it.  I had not heard of it before but the specs
sounded good.  I already had upgraded their system from a disaster (they
actually burned up the power room )  I installed an Outback VFX3648 on an
epanel and installed 6 panels on the remnants of their original building
and then added 4 DPW racks of 3 panels each so they could tilt for winter
snow.  16 L16 wet cells. They do maintenance frequently enough to keep an
eye on water level. It worked pretty well, but they still had too much
generator time in the winter when it was hard to get propane up the
mountain.  I then installed their Superwind on a 35" tilt up tower next to
their 50' comm tower.  Since the mountaintop has good winds during the
winter, it has saved them 75% of their generator time and consequently they
have not had to refuel in the winter at all.  We monitor it with opticsRE
and also with some of their transmitter data.  Their load is about 300
watts 24/7 with it dropping off a little late at night.
It is a repeater site for business band radios, police, emergency etc.
John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service.

On Wed, Feb 21, 2024 at 2:02 PM Mark Frye via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Gentlefolk,
>
> I have a 35 watt radio transmitter that I need to station in the desert
> for a critical application.
>
> Any recommendations for a turnkey provider of a combined
> solar/wind/battery system?
>
> Should I build it myself?
>
> Thanks,
>
> Mark Frye
> Berkeley Solar Electric Systems
> 530 401 8024
> ___
> List sponsored by Redwood Alliance
>
> Pay optional member dues here: http://re-wrenches.org
>
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>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Lithium batteries

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Ray,
   With this batch of posts about lithium batteriem and several mentions of
XW inverters and overcharging, I just have to chime in with my experience
with one I installed and one installed by someone else. Both were charging
48V L16 wet cell batteries.  In both cases with charge settings double
checked and triple checked, I had both shoot past the 57.2 volt absorb
setting and destroyed the batteries. In one case a battery blew its top
off.  The other we caught in time and shut it down. That one had some bad
cells in 3 strings of 8 (not the one I installed) and when I arrived there
the room was HOT from the boiling batteries.  I replaced them with 2
strings of 8 and though I was skeptical about the charge rate being stable,
left it to the owner to monitor. That was last year and he has recently
called to have me check a potential overcharging issue.  The other one I
installed with 8 L16 batteries in a grid tie application and the after
several years of working properly suddenly started overcharging out of
control. WHen the customer called saying that the batteries were
overheating, I told him to switch the inverter to bypass and shut all the
DC switches off.  I was at the Midwest Enegy Fair and not able to check it
out right away. When I returned, I filled the batteries up and turned the
system on and the voltage shot up past 60 then 65 volts and I shut it
down.  Fast forward 2 years... Schneider techs finally admitted that there
was a firmware problem and after much agrivation getting the firmware
updated with no internet and poor phone coverage, got it back working OK.
Fast forward again 2 more years, problem is back.  I have the system set to
charge at 1 amp and am able to at least keep the inverter on to sell his
solar power. Ready to start round 3 with Schneider, this time with internet
and good phone service  By the way, I have never had overcharge issues with
Outback unless my settings were too high.  Someone mentioned lack of
overcharge protection on some Lithium BMS's.  I know for a fact that the
Fortress E-flex does when I forgot to change from very high lead acid
settings on the Outback Radian  when installing the Fortress batteries.
They nicely shut down at 60 volts and turned back on after I stopped the
overcharge.
John Blittersdorf

On Thu, Feb 8, 2024 at 12:17 AM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> We just had a complete failure of a set of four Simpliphi 3.8 KWh
> batteries, 48 v.  It has completely changed my thoughts on Li+ for off
> grid.  This set lasted 5 years, which is about equal to bottom of the
> barrel Golf Cart batteries.  The RMA/ Warranty process has not been
> smooth.  It took almost a week to even get shipping info from Simpliphi,
> and then another week to deal with Hazmat issues, and get Fed Ex to accept
> used Li+ batteries for shipment.  To their credit, tech support has been
> knowledgeable, responsive, and available by phone while on site.
>
>  Overall, the system worked fine for 5 years, but then a month ago, after
> several days of cloudy weather, the system shut down due to low voltage.
> (so far, fairly typical off grid winter situation) When the customer
> started the generator and tried to revive the system, he noticed one of the
> batteries didn't seem to be taking a charge, so after consulting with
> Simpliphi, he charged each battery separately with a small aux charger.  I
> checked this charger and it was quite stable at a max of 58 v.  By the time
> I arrived, all 4 batteries would not accept even milliamps of charge
> current. The BMSs had all disconnected the batteries from the buss, but
> strangely there was residual voltage (51vdc) on the terminals.  It was not
> usable however, and crashed to 18 v upon connection to the inverter with no
> loads.
>
> Simpliphi is claiming all the BMS units were fried due to a high voltage
> event.  Its winter, there was no lightning, and we had both the Outback
> FM100 and the Schneider XW programmed according to the Simpliphi
> integration guides.   BTW, Simpliphi has no high voltage recording, they
> just don't like the look of how their electronics fried. Electronics failed
> = customer's fault.  I think it failed because of the voltage differential
> between the low battery voltage and normal charge voltage.  If  the BMS
> can't survive in a typical off grid environment, with proper programming on
> industry standard equipment, its not suitable for off grid applications.
> Plenty of manus have decided to quit recommending their equipment for off
> grid; its a tough gig.
>
> How many times have we all heard the old '*Manu S blaming Manu X'* snafu
> on this list?  Simpliphi is saying that the XW can have transient over
> voltage events.  Well, that should be mentioned in the integration guide,
> so we can make an informed decision, and not use that inverter 

Re: [RE-wrenches] In search of better generator start relay for Outback system

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I agree with Roy and Jay.  No failures since exclusively using the auto
cube relay triggered by any of the Outback relays in the inverter or charge
controllers. I'm having good luck
keeping a Magnum based system running remotely and on auto using an old
MX60 I had hanging around it for its aux 12v output relay to trigger the
the cube and starting a Generac EcoGen 14 k.  All I can see on Optics is
battery voltage and  temperature at the water pipes using the battery temp
sensor and generator hours from the AGS set ip as a DC Genset.  All I need
to know  pipes won't freeze and the generator will start. (PS I can use
the temp sensor as I am not using the Outback for battery charging as not
recommended for LFP batteries.
If the generator needs 3 wire start, such as the Honda 6 or 7K propane
generator. I use the Atkinson Mini autostart module triggered by the cube
relay.  Only one failure an it was the Atkinson unit.

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™



CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com


On Fri, Feb 9, 2024 at 7:13 PM Roy Butler via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Jay,
>
> This has been my go to relay for the last 21 years, no failures. In all
> sorts of environmental conditions.
> Unlike the generators they are supposed to start...but I digress...
>
> Roy Butler
> Four Winds Renewable Energy, LLC
>
> Education is when you read the fine print; experience is what you get when 
> you don’t.
>
> “The less people know, the more stubbornly they know it.”
>
> Although no trees were killed in the sending of this message,
> a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
>
>
>
> On 2/9/2024 7:00 PM, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> I would use a sealed relay.
>
> The SS one should work. Or a 12v cube relay like in cars.
> Super cheap and reliable
>
> Jay
>
> [image:
> 31CBOICBnYL._SR600,315_PIWhiteStrip,BottomLeft,0,35_PIStarRatingFOURANDHALF,BottomLeft,360,-6_SR600,315_ZA892,445,290,400,400,AmazonEmberBold,12,4,0,0,5_SCLZZZ_FMpng_BG255,255,255.jpg]
>
> BOSCH 0332209150 Changeover Mini Relay - 5 Pins, 12 V, 20/30 A - Single
> <https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-0332209150-Fuel-Injection-Relay/dp/B004Z0U1IW/ref=asc_df_B004Z0U1IW/?tag=hyprod-20=df0=366288796258==g=9637219655584602788m===9030399=pla-310538454416=1=e8c1e56604c837b8a724b0ee0121156d===83058288464===366288796258==g=9637219655584602788==m===9030399=pla-310538454416>
> amazon.com
> <https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-0332209150-Fuel-Injection-Relay/dp/B004Z0U1IW/ref=asc_df_B004Z0U1IW/?tag=hyprod-20=df0=366288796258==g=9637219655584602788m===9030399=pla-310538454416=1=e8c1e56604c837b8a724b0ee0121156d===83058288464===366288796258==g=9637219655584602788==m===9030399=pla-310538454416>
>
> <https://www.amazon.com/Bosch-0332209150-Fuel-Injection-Relay/dp/B004Z0U1IW/ref=asc_df_B004Z0U1IW/?tag=hyprod-20=df0=366288796258==g=9637219655584602788m===9030399=pla-310538454416=1=e8c1e56604c837b8a724b0ee0121156d===83058288464===366288796258==g=9637219655584602788==m===9030399=pla-310538454416>
>
>
> On Feb 9, 2024, at 12:55 PM, William Miller via RE-wrenches
>  
> wrote:
>
> 
>
> Dan:
>
>
>
> I think a solid state relay is indicated here.  There are many out there.
> Here is a link to one at Digikey:
>
>
>
>
> https://www.digikey.com/en/products/detail/wago-corporation/859-739/15520805
>
>
>
> The datasheet (attached) shows operating limits of -25 to 70 degree C.
> There are other options at Digikey that work down to -40 degrees C.
>
>
>
> Good luck,
>
>
>
> William
>
>
>
> Miller Solar
>
> 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422
>
> 805-438-5600
>
> www.millersolar.com
>
> CA Lic. 773985
>
>
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] *On
> Behalf Of *Dan Fink via RE-wrenches
> *Sent:* Friday, February 9, 2024 9:28 AM
> *To:* RE-wrenches
> *Cc:* Dan Fink
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] In search of better generator start relay for
> Outback system
>
>
>
> Esteemed Wrenches - Finally successfully troubleshot an intermittent AGS
> problem that has been nagging one of my remote-grid clients for 1.5 winters
> now. Of course it's a 4-hour drive from my office.
>
>
>
> During winter snowstorms (when they need the AGS the most of course) the
> generator had only about 50:50 chance of starting. So I'd travel to the
> site (sometimes just the client would do it and I'd guide him by phone),
> pull up the Gen menu on the Mate 3S, hit ON and it wouldn't start. No
> bueno. Walk up to the generator (propane with Honda engine) and verify it's
> on Auto. Start it with the main switch to

Re: [RE-wrenches] generator charging question/VFX3524

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Chris, I am doing just what you are contemplating.  I have a 6000 watt
Briggs & Stratton Gasoline worksite generator and had the same issue
charging my Fortress Eflex batteries.  I was getting 25 amps off one leg
but the genny wasn't happy about it.  I ran another line off of leg 2
directly to an Iota DLS 54-13 and now I get almost 40 amps and the
generator runs more smoothly. The only problem with the older outback
inverter is that the low battery cutout will only go up to 48 V when it
should be closer to 50 or more. As long as the customer keeps an eye on the
voltage or the generator has AGS, there is  no problem  If the batteries do
shut themselves down, the Iota charger can boot them back to life ... a
good reason to have the second non generator charger. I have considered
hooking up a second IOTA charger to see if I can get 50 amps out of my
generator without it working too hard.
I

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™



CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com


On Wed, Feb 7, 2024 at 3:56 PM Chris Daum via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hi folks:
>
>
>
> So, we have a customer (equipment not acquired from us)  with an older
> OUTBACK VFX3524, charging their 3 X RB24V200 ReLion LFP batteries vis a
> vis one leg of their generator.  The battery is capable of up to 200A
> recharge though the manufacturer recommends 10~100A.  The customer has a
> 240VAC generator with two 120VAC legs; customer wants to bump up the
> charging to over 22.5A, preferably more; they’re running their gennie a
> lot to get a rather slow rate of charge from the inverter’s charger.
> Presently the customer has the Inverter/charger connected through the
> FLEXware 250 enclosure. There is not a busbar in place.  The idea
> presented is to use an external battery charger that would pull from the
> other leg of the 240VAC gen set to supplement the charging capability.   The
> question becomes: can we use a busbar with disparate amps charging to bump
> up the charging rate for the LiFePo4 battery?  Outback techs are saying
> the VFX3524 is not LiFePo4 compatible, but they also say they need to stack
> another inverter. I think we are looking at letting the smoke out of the
> least-producing charger by pushing amperages back.   What do y’all think?
> Any and all ideas are under consideration.
>
>
>
> Best,
>
>
>
> Chris Daum
>
> Oasis Montana Inc.
>
> 406-777-4309 or 4321
>
> 406-777-4309 fax
>
> www.oasismontana.com
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] State of Charge Meter for Sol-Ark

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jason,
  I have found that the TriMetric meter is still somewhat useful and as
with lead acid batteries, still recommend not trusting the SOC.  My
trimetric with no setting changes is
still reading SOC about as unreliable as with lead acid but I use the
voltage readings combined with a printout of a graph of actual voltages
thru the range of full to LBCO
If you don't have data from this customers system, I suspect that a chart
from any similar sized LFP battery would be close enough. I have Fortress
eflex batteries and the Guardian
for remote monitoring of the batteries.  I use it a lot but my wife always
keeps a hawk eye on the Trimetric as we manually start our backup
generator.  The mid range voltages are
plus or minus 20% but at the low end start to change more quickly with
about a 3 hour window to start the generator before LBCO.

John Blittersdorf
offgridvermont.com

On Sun, Feb 4, 2024 at 10:30 AM Jason Szumlanski via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> 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
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Re: [RE-wrenches] OpticsRE

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Thankyou Kirk.

On Mon, Dec 18, 2023 at 6:26 PM Kirk Herander via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> use the full URL, meaning www.opticsre.com, not just opticsre.com. It
> works fine for me this way., just discovered this. Somehow related to their
> recent upgrade.
>
> On Mon, Dec 18, 2023 at 6:17 PM Foxfire Energy via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Anyone know what’s going on with OpticsRE? Their sites been down since
>> last Friday.  TIA
>>
>> Sent from my iPhone
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> --
>
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>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase Gateway causing lamp to flicker

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

My guess is that the lamp is too sensitive.  I find that the cheapest LED
bulb from home depot flicker whether using inverter power or generator
power.  All other LEDs in the house work fine.  Like a fool, I keep buying
the cheap ones.  I totally agree with Andrew " While I can understand the
need to placate clients, the days of solar martyrdom needs to end! "
 Being in the darkest time of year, I spend way too much time placating.

John Blittersdorf



On Mon, Dec 11, 2023 at 9:56 AM AE Solar via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Wrenches
> We have a project where the homeowner has some of those bedside lamps
> where you touch them to turn them on/off/dim (rather than having a switch).
> It seems like when the Enphase Gateway is powered up it causes the lights
> to freak out. Once we flip the breaker to the Gateway off the lamp operates
> as normalZ Interestingly, with another load (homeowner was using a
> dehumidifier) plugged into the circuit it seems to stabilize the lights. We
> isolated the problem to the Gateway specifically (ie having PV breakers
> on/off doesn’t make a difference). It’s a supply side connection. The house
> is small but we tried the lamp in multiple parts of the house and it
> happens everywhere.  Enphase doesn’t have any ideas. Anyone have this
> happen to them?
>
> I think we might just need to buy them some new lamps, but I’m also
> interested to understand what is happening. These are just some cheap
> lamps, but wondering if other household loads that are more sensitive might
> be affected as well?
>
> Adam
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[RE-wrenches] Magnum 4448 PAE whimpy charge rate.

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I have noticed on several Magnum Installations that the charge rate is low
compared to the inverter rated output.  Typically I would assume the charge
rate should be up to about 70 to 80 % of the inverter capacity, but I am
getting only about 1400 watts (26 amps DC) from it with a 14kw generator.
Is there some setting I am missing that would limit it other than the
charge %.  I know of one system where they added a 2nd Magnum inverter and
then had problems with them working together consistently.  I have used the
8 kilowatt Radians for any off grid with significant loads and battery
capacity and easily get 6000 charging watts from a large generator. I also
needed remote control of the generator (Generac EcoGen 15 kw so a quick
inexpensive but clunky solution I came up with was to add an old (2003
vintage) used MX-60 to the system purely to use the Aux relay with a used
HUB and old but good Mate3.  Works perfectly giving us AGS start and stop
voltage settings and basic battery voltage graph. I would be interested in
other ways to remote control generators with non Outback inverters. FlexNet
DC?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] in need of a Bergey XL.1 controller, 24vdc

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Chris,
   I have a shelf full. Contact me off list.

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™



CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com

john.blittersd...@gmail.com

On Wed, Nov 8, 2023 at 4:47 PM Chris Schaefer via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> G'day All,
>
> Had one of my clients burn up a controller on an offgrid system. It is an
> XL.1 24 Vdc unit, early 2000 circa. The resistor dump unit and turbine
> itself appear to be fine. I've attached a few pictures of the damaged
> controller for your viewing pleasure. Apparently the newer controllers
> require a stator upgrade which the client doesn't want to do. If anyone has
> a spare unit gathering dust I'd be happy to purchase it.
>
> Thanks bunches,
> Christopher-
>
> Chris Schaefer’s
>
>
> *Tel 585-229-2083 or Cell 585-748-1870 *
> *5115 S Hill Road ~ Canandaigua New York 14424**www.solarandwindfx.com
> <http://www.solarandwindfx.com> ~ E-mail: ch...@solarandwindfx.com
> *
>
>
> Thomas Jefferson, the author of our great Constitution, once said,
> "democracy" will cease to exist when you take away from those who are
> willing to work and give to those who would not."
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Re: [RE-wrenches] XW Pro failures

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I've only installed one and it is an ongoing nightmare.  Almost burned the
customers house down with exploding batteries.
Voltages all set properly but the unit ignored all settings and went up to
67 volts while I watched and who knows how high it would have gone if I had
not shut the system down. Luckily the owner of the spart time home has been
there when it needed to be shut down.
A grid tie system that has been off line most of its 10 year life.  First
time Schneider tech support said it must be wrong settings.  I had gone
over them many times and with another tech with me and there were no
incorrect settings.  After more than a year, they admitted that the
firmware was bad.  Wasted another whole day getting the firmware upgraded
and it worked for awhile and then did the same thing.  Worked OK the last
two years after replacing the batteries for the second time and then
suddenly it started using lots of water and is doing it again.  Not to
mention the AGS module not working with the firmware. A New module still
has same problem.  All wiring tested. I have seen XW's (not my install)
making loud noises and seeming to have issues but I wasn't going to touch
them  Told them to get the original installing company to check it out.

 I'm about to rip my problem child off the wall and put in a Radian. I've
installed dozens with only 2 needing any attention with power supply board
and a power module, all quick fixes.

John Blittersdorf



On Fri, Oct 13, 2023 at 12:12 PM jay via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> In my buddies case, most definitely XW Pro
>
> jay
>
> On Oct 13, 2023, at 9:39 AM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> It must be an XW+ that died. The XW pro field circuit validation testing beta 
> was complete in early 2019.
>
> That XWP is still working fine for me. Not many failures unless the installer 
> did not use surge protection.
> If it was an XWP and you filled out the 10 year warranty, they might have 
> your back still.
>
> If you troubleshoot xw and find it is the power bridge PCB, I see them 
> available on Ebay.
> Schneider has not provided parts for out of warranty devices for 10 years now.
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
><http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>https://offgridsolar1.com/ 
> <https://offgridsolar1.com/>  <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
> On 2023-10-13 7:54 am, Lou Russo via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> I had a 7 year-old one die 1.5 months ago.
> F41 APS Under Voltage.
> No ugly sounds. Just no power.
> I don't have many out there but this is the first.
>
>
> Aloha,
>
> Lou Russo
> (808) 345 6762
>
>
> On Fri, Oct 13, 2023 at 4:47 AM Michael Morningstar via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Funny you should say that. One that I just installed is acting weird and
> sounds horrible. Waited an hour on the phone for tech support to no avail.
> Will be a really long drive back to sort things out. Never had an XW with
> issues before.
>
> On Thu, Oct 12, 2023 at 9:29 PM Kevin Pegg via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> Hello Wrenches,
>
>
>
> Curious if anyone else is dealing with failed Schnieder XW PRO6848's this
> year? In recent months I've had 2 DOA (one producing 180/360VAC; one
> charger had this nasty building THD and ugly noise until it tripped out),
> and 2 fail after few weeks in service. One charger just failed, and another
> have yet to take the long drive to figure out but it's gone dark.
>
>
>
> I've sold, serviced, and installed 100's of XW's starting with Beta 001
> and can't think of any that just failed like of recent. Unplanned return
> service calls are costly as we all know. Tech support has been wildly
> inconsistent and presently unresponsive.
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
>
>
> Kevin Pegg
>
> EA Energy Alternatives Ltd.
>
> Telkwa, BC  V0J 2X2
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Wind machines

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jay and Roy,
   Join me on my crusade to get the PIKA T701 back into production.
It was the best I ever owned but had to sell it to a customer when
PIKA stopped production.
Still lots of their 100 units produced are out there somewhere. I just
found one currently running
 in a very poor wind site that the owner is willing to sell.  I can't
wait to get it back on my tower!
Specs are still found on NAZ website.  Google PIKA T701

John Blittersdorf



On Thu, Aug 17, 2023 at 12:04 PM Jay via RE-wrenches
 wrote:
>
> Yeah just kinda of sad they are gone.
>
> Like others, a friend called looking to replace a very old whisper power.
>
> Ok more solar it is.
>
> Thx
> Jay
>
>
>
> On Aug 17, 2023, at 9:51 AM, Roy Butler via RE-wrenches 
>  wrote:
>
>  Good luck with that search Jay.
>
> Most of the companies that manufactured machines in that size range went out 
> of business quite some time ago.
> Unfortunately, lots of low quality equipment has filled that void.buyer 
> beware!
>
>
> Roy Butler
> Four Winds Renewable Energy, LLC
> 8902 Route 46, Arkport, NY 14807
> 607-324-9747  www.four-winds-energy.com
>
> Education is when you read the fine print; experience is what you get when 
> you don’t.
>
> “The less people know, the more stubbornly they know it.”
>
> Although no trees were killed in the sending of this message,
> a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
>
>
>
> On 8/17/2023 11:09 AM, Jay via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> Hi all
>
> Is anyone making a good quality 1-2kw wind machine?
>
> All of my searches come up with nothing.
>
> Thanks in advance
> Jay
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Re: [RE-wrenches] replace part of rolls battery bank

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

On Mon, Apr 10, 2023 at 2:14 PM Kienan Maxfield via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Here’s my two cents,
>
> If you do end up putting in two new batteries, and you leave everything
> wired the way it is, you’d better really watch the rest of the batteries
> that are in that string. The new batteries will have a lower internal
> resistance, so the two strings that are all old batteries will have a lower
> current. This means they charge much more slowly, and the one string that
> has the two new batteries in it will charge much more quickly. This
> increased current in the one string often results in overheating of the
> weakest  cells that are in the same string with the new cells. While
> charging, the old batteries that are in the same string as the new
> batteries will have a higher voltage because of this internal resistance.
>
> The worst cells will get the hottest, then the heat will cause the
> internal resistance to increase, which will cause more heat. The batteries
> can seem good at first, but after a little while, this cycle can get
> dangerous. The last time that one of my clients tried this maneuver of
> replacing two “bad” L16s in the bank of otherwise “good” L16s, the plastic
> started melting and I believe it was close to a catastrophe.
>
> Unless you’re running a laboratory experiment, I strongly recommend never
> mixing all the new batteries. Make sure you are fully aware of the hazards,
> do you know what to expect in terms of internal resistance is changing the
> charging characteristics.
>
> Best of luck,
> Kienan
>
> *Green-Go Solar Distribution LLC*
>
> *Maxfield Solar LLC (installation and consulting company)*
>
> *maxfieldso...@hotmail.com *
>
> *(801) 631-5584(Cell)*
>
> *www.distribution.solar*
>
> On Apr 5, 2023, at 7:34 PM, frenergy via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> 
>
> Wrenches,
>
> I feel compelled to chime in here.  Ten years ago, we
> installed 24, Rolls 2-KS-33P, 2 volt batteries for the shop.  Though they
> were in a climate-controlled environment and maybe went to 50% SOC a dozen
> times over 10 years, usually ranged 75-100% SOC, we had the first failure
> just before 7 year warranty ended.  Unfortunately soon after there were two
> more failures we had to pay for, then most recently 2-3 more were very
> difficult to maintain good SGs and were sagging more in voltage when
> loaded. We tried several EQs and then deep discharges and hard and long
> re-charges to try and de-sulphate without luck.  So we recently replaced
> the pack.  We know how to care for FLA batteries, been doing so since the
> 80's.
>
> I'm not faulting Rolls/Surrette, Steve Higgins tried to help,
> *maybe* I should take some responsibility but the reason I am sharing
> this bad experience (I was expecting 15++ years from this kind of battery)
> is at some point after installation I checked the date codes and found
> there were 5, count them FIVE different dates, one or two of which were *more
> than a year old* when purchased. Ouch.  Another expensive lesson
> learned.  Hopefully Rolls has a better handle now-a-days on their post
> manufacture supply chain.  Do you think the different distributors that
> sent their "back-in-the-corner" unclaimed 2-KS-33p's to my distributor to
> make up my pack had their 2V chargers floating the batteries all that time?
> me neither.
>
> Moral of the story: *Check date codes* on that big beautiful
> pack of lead you're ready to load onto the truck. I'm now making it clear
> to our distributor that I won't be loading batteries on my truck unless
> dates codes match, which they did on the replacement SimpliPHI's.
>
> Bill
>
> Feather River Solar Electric
> Bill Battagin, Owner
> 4291 Nelson St.(shipping) 5575 Genesee Rd 
> . 
> (USPS, UPS)
> Taylorsville, CA 95983
> 530.284.1925 Office/ 530.258.1641 Cell
> CA Lic 874049
> Solar powered since 1982
>
> On 4/4/2023 4:42 PM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> Hurts my head !  Agree that you will have more trips to this house after
> the next one. This is most likely not going to get you 2 more years. All of
> the wiring is good, clean, and tight?  Who really knows how long it could
> last? Probably fine thru summer and fall.
>
> Much better with the next L16 size up and 24 (2V) cells. Lot's of capacity
> choices there from Rolls and others.
>
> Almost Cheers time !
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
> http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ 
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
> On 2023-04-04 4:21 pm, Ray Walters via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> So the 24 batteries are actually 72 individual cells that are trying to
> charge equally, with essentially no BMS.  Its not just max strings, but max
> # of cells, and 

Re: [RE-wrenches] RE-wrenches] replace part of rolls battery bank

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Multiple battery banks work well as long as you are consuming.  When
charging the charge parameters change.  I’m running 8 Interstate L16’s, 1
Fortress e-flex, And 3 Simpliphi 3.8. With big switches between them.  I
was using all three but changing charge parameters on
My two controllers and inverter got to be too much trouble.  I ran all with
lithium settings but I’m retiring the L16s and putting in a second eFlex.
 2 eFlex or 3 Simpliphis do a great job replacing the 8.  The 3 simpliphis
will be leaving for their summer home at a fishing club. Hi

John B




On Thu, Apr 6, 2023 at 11:50 AM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar via RE-wrenches
 wrote:

> And the next step for hi reliability offgrid is to have both types of
> battery in there own independent inverter power systems. Just switch the DC
> bus from one power system or the other. I like the LFP just turned off
> sitting as a spare power system. You can rotate or do a monthly test like
> it is a genset.
>
> This is also a good way to use up the old flooded and retire it when it
> becomes useless and ready to recycle. Some LFP manufactures do provide a
> spare BMS but probably better to just have an extra battery at the offgrid
> home.
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
> http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
> On 2023-04-05 6:30 pm, Scot Arey via RE-wrenches wrote:
>
> Just attended the NABCEP conference last week and took in CEU classes from
> Rolls and Midnite on battery charging and design. Just awesome classes and
> I walked away thinking the FLA were kind of like my old 7.3 Powerstroke
> diesel…I could work on them and could see when issues were developing. The
> lithium batteries are kind of like my 6.7 PSD. Great power, fast but when
> something happens with a BMS…no idea except to go to the manufacturer.
>
>
>
> Just wanted to share this after reading your awesome post.
>
>
>
> Scot
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *Tump via RE-wrenches
> *Sent:* Wednesday, April 5, 2023 6:24 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Cc:* Tump 
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] RE-wrenches] replace part of rolls battery
> bank
>
>
>
> I would suggest that adding additional batteries to increase battery
> voltages is fine 48 to 54V or what ever, I too have used this many times on
> very remote sites. Please also increase your inverters hi voltage cut out
> settings, as this can be a real bummer having the system shut down in full
> sun.
>
> Another thing; IF you have battery strings,  cables of equal length from
> each string should be connected to a buss bar then buss bar to inverter or
> inverters, this will reduce wiring headaches, voltage drop as well as
> providing equal charging to all strings. (depending on internal resistance).
>
> I would also suggest fewer batteries of bigger cells. My preference is 2
> volt cells, less holes to water, less copper interconnects. Yeah there
> heavy but for hi charging & discharging, a large battery is always my
> choice.  OR the Surrette 6CS25P has been the MOST reliable battery Surrette
> has put out. After almost 30 + years of installing their batteries this one
> has been the best. They do have a EX series 2 Volt cell that has the same
> plate thickness as the 6 CS but I have had issues w/ them. IF you are using
> the EX 2 volt check the polarity PRIOR to installing them & mark the
> positive side. I have had the plastic covers installed incorrectly and it
> plays havoc on your install.
>
> Yep LEADITE I am, refractometer and a DVOM and I have a client that can
> spot problems way before things become critical. AND that Surrette
> warrantee Pit BULL Mr. Higgins & your client will be very happy when Steve
> OKs a replacement because you have recorded your Spg readings.
>
> My $.02 TUMP
>
>
>
> On Apr 5, 2023, at 5:26 PM, greg egan via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>
>
> Danny, My experience is if you are careful and use *equal length
> conductors* for all 3 strings you can get good results.  The main problem
> I have with 3 strings of 6 V cells @ 48 vdc is leaving the customer with 72
> cells to check and fill.  That's a lot of work if you don't have a watering
> system.
>
> I totally get why you'd want to give them 2 strings in case they lose a
> battery or 2.  Most of my off grid customers live quite a ways from the
> battery store and it's not uncommon for it to take a month to get
> replacements - during the best of times.
>
> Another option I've done is give them a string of 25 - 2V cells for a 48V
> system.   You just set the charging param

Re: [RE-wrenches] Small 48V wind turbine recommendations

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Kirpal,
  Since Bergey stopped making the XL.1 I have been looking as well.
In the affordable range I can
only find a few Chinese models and tried a rated 1000 watt Tumo.  It
was well built but with a small rotor diameter I was
not expecting much from it.  It managed to put out 550 watts in a 35
mph wind and eventually blew off some blades and then left the tower.
It landed in tact but I'm debating trying to get blades and hub from
China or just wait for something better.  The same company puts out a
2000 watt which I call a possible 1000 watt.  My customer has bought
one from China for around $2000 and we are in the process of
installing it.  Check back with me in a few months and I can let you
know how it goes.

I'm still hoping the PIKA 1.6 kw turbine will somehow get back in
production. They work great and the two in my area are still working
fine after many years.

JohnBlittersdorf
CV Wind Service



John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service.

On Sun, Mar 26, 2023 at 1:18 PM Kirpal via RE-wrenches
 wrote:
>
> Greetings folks!
> Anybody have a recommendation for a small decent quality wind turbine 
> manufacturer with decent quality equipment?  We had a small SWWP turbine that 
> has officially gone belly up and are looking to replace it.   We don't do 
> much these days in the wind scene and are a bit out of the loop.  500-1000 
> watt size would be wonderful.
> Thanks for any input -opinions - advice!
>
> Sunny Regards,
> Kirpal Khalsa
> Oregon LRT#25
> Oregon Solarworks LLC
> www.oregonsolarworks.com
> 541-299-0402
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Inverter bypass

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Howie,
   I use the QO612 small breaker box with two double pole breakers and the
QO2DTI toggle.

John Blittersdorf

On Thu, Mar 2, 2023 at 8:11 PM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Does anyone know of any bypass switch/breaker setup for anything greater
> than 60 amps for 2 poles, other than large DPDT switches which get pricey
> and hard to source especially for 200 amps?
> Howie
>
> On Thu, Mar 2, 2023, 6:23 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> I probably still have one of the old QO boxes on the shelf, but I never
>> liked them.  Single pole, very tight, and you had to double lug or use a
>> weird split bolt arrangement with exposed copper out past the breaker.
>>
>> I started using these 60A T switches from Northern:
>>
>> https://www.northerntool.com/shop/tools/product_200653609_200653609
>>
>> Midnite makes small 30A and 60A T switches as well:
>>
>>
>> https://www.midnitesolar.com/productPhoto.php?product_ID=416_ID=29=3=p
>>
>> Ray Walters
>> On 3/2/2023 11:57 AM, Sindelar Solar via RE-wrenches wrote:
>>
>> Kris, It was SqD QO403, and it was a 3-pole load center/disconnect, not
>> 4-pole. You may recall that the dual-inverter Trace Power Panels of long
>> ago used two of these, each one serving as an inverter bypass switch to one
>> 120V AC leg.
>>
>> On 3/2/2023 11:46 AM, Kristopher Schmid via RE-wrenches wrote:
>>
>> Hi All,
>>
>> I have a stand alone system that was upgraded from an FX inverter to a
>> Radian WITHOUT  the companion load center.  I would like to add an inverter
>> bypass circuit to operate the house on generator power.  There used to be a
>> 4 slot breaker panel (SqD?) with the rocker switch preventing both breakers
>> from being in the on position simultaneously.  I have not been able to find
>> it on the interweb.  Anyone know of something out there that would meet my
>> needs?
>>
>> Kris
>>
>>
>> Shine On!
>>
>> Kris Schmid
>> Legacy Solar, LLC
>> 137 West 1st Avenue
>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/137+West+1st+Avenue+%0D%0ALuck,+WI+54853?entry=gmail=g>
>> Luck, WI 54853
>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/137+West+1st+Avenue+%0D%0ALuck,+WI+54853?entry=gmail=g>
>> www.legacysolar.com
>> 715-653-4295
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>> Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician
>> BSEE
>>
>>
>> --
>>
>> *Allan Sindelar*
>> al...@sindelarsolar.com
>> (No longer) NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>> (Still) New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
>> (Retired) Founder, Positive Energy, Inc.
>> (Retired) Founder, Sindelar Solar
>> *505 780-2738 cell*
>>
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Solark-Fortress Com? (was Fortress Battery Heater)

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

It all comes back to voltage.Learned that with the TriMetric a long
time ago.  I have a dozen eVaults out there, mostly singles but one set up
with 3, all working just fine using voltage control.

John Blittersdorf

On Thu, Feb 9, 2023 at 8:57 PM Howie Michaelson via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> For systems where the batteries are getting a relatively full charge every
> week or and cycling down below 30% at least every now and then, closed loop
> is certainly the safest way to go since the battery BMS is determining the
> SOC, not the inverter's algorithm.
>
> I've been told by a tech at Fortress that has done installation and
> service that unless the batteries cycle at least occasionally, the
> battery's BMS can really lose accuracy. So even in closed loop, you can
> have significant discrepancies.
>
> I ran into this a couple of weeks ago on a system that had been cycling
> between 20 and 45% for several weeks. Even though the BMS was reporting
> around 40%, the batteries shut down on low voltage. In cases where the
> batteries aren't getting a relatively full cycle at least every week (or
> 2),I was told to switch over to switch the Sol Ark over to operate on
> voltage instead. And to set up the charge algorithm to bring the batteries
> up higher every now and then.
>
> So far, things have worked better.
>
> Howie Michaelson
> Sun Catcher
>
>
> On Thu, Feb 9, 2023, 8:10 PM Chris Sparadeo via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Ray,
>>
>> Establishing CAN is straightforward. Most important steps:
>>
>> -Pins 1,2,3 on eVault go to pins 4,5,6 in that order
>> - Update the eVault with CAN firmware
>> -Use protocol 6 on the battery and protocol 00 on the Sol Ark
>>
>> Closed loop is an important feature that I personally wouldn’t want to
>> pass up. I have found CAN to be much more solid than RS485 with regards to
>> the eVault Max. I’ve conducted plenty of firmware upgrades and have yet to
>> run into trouble. Key is to turn off breaker so battery is not charging or
>> discharging.
>>
>> I’d reconsider blowing off this feature.
>>
>> Kindly,
>>
>> Chris
>>
>>
>> On Thu, Feb 9, 2023 at 5:35 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi Chris;
>>>
>>> That's not for the eVault.  Other Wrenches have mentioned using a pet
>>> heating pad with a 120 vac plug in thermostat.  I'm going to try that, I'll
>>> report back to the list what I find.
>>>
>>> Secondly, I am having issues figuring out how to do the closed loop
>>> coms.  The Fortress instructions contradict themselves on how to even make
>>> up the proper CANbus cable, as apparently MODbus is not stable anymore,
>>> after the latest Solark firmware upgrades.  I'm about to just apply the
>>> KISSbus,  which is to blow off the closed loop com all together, and *Keep
>>> It Simple S#@$%*!, otherwise known as No Coms at all.
>>>
>>> I've screwed with Com stuff since the 90s, but usually been
>>> disappointed, to downright horrified with the final results.  Somebody
>>> explain to me like a 2 year old again, why closed loop is so much better?
>>> Think off grid, where reliability is 10 times more important than squeezing
>>> an extra 5% capacity out of the battery Notes in the online
>>> instructions such as "*Failure to properly upgrade the firmware may
>>> cause the battery to stop working!",  * are not making we want to push
>>> ahead with closed loop either.
>>>
>>> Ray
>>> On 2/9/2023 11:01 AM, Chris Schaefer via RE-wrenches wrote:
>>>
>>> Ray,
>>>
>>> I'd suggest reaching out to the Fortress techie's as they just
>>> introduced a heater product for their enclosure products. While I don't
>>> believe they have a unit specif to the eVault but you should be able to
>>> make it work.
>>>
>>> Christopher
>>>
>>> On Wed, Feb 8, 2023 at 6:43 PM Jerry Shafer via RE-wrenches <
>>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>>
>>>> Pet heater have worked for me, I air gap a sealed heater box under the
>>>> battery, thermostat inside the top of the battery.  It's slow and low power
>>>> but does the trick
>>>> Fun times
>>>>
>>>> On Wed, Feb 8, 2023, 3:05 PM Ray Walters via RE-wrenches <
>>>> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>> Hi All;
>>&g

Re: [RE-wrenches] 24V Multi Mode Inverter Options

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

I would vote for Outback FX series.  FIELD REPAIRABLE. Only down side
is if he is using the multiple relays for a 3 wire start generator.
John

On Tue, Jan 3, 2023 at 11:42 AM Jerry Shafer via RE-wrenches
 wrote:
>
> Wrenches, Chris
>  I would only look at outback, Date available and easy to access, can be 
> easily connected to additional components in the future.
> Fun Times
>
>
> Tue, Jan 3, 2023 at 6:43 AM Chris Sparadeo via RE-wrenches 
>  wrote:
>>
>> Hey there,
>>
>> I have a client with a dead 24V Xantrex SW…It had a good 20+ year run with a 
>> few rebuilds. The customer is looking to upgrade their inverter, but keep 
>> their 24V battery bank. My first thoughts were Outback FX or Victron 
>> Quattro, but I am curious what others are using out there. It seems like 24V 
>> has been left in the dust with regards to more sophisticated multimode and 
>> hybrid inverters. Schnider makes a 24V SW but it has a short warranty and 
>> after a welded AC input relay I’m not a big fan of that model.
>>
>> Just wondering if I am missing any options out there?
>>
>> Kindly,
>>
>> Chris
>> --
>> Chris Sparadeo
>>
>>
>> C_802-369-4458
>> H_802-728-3059
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback vfx 3648 question

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Jay,
 I have seen this a few times but usually with a generator that is not
designed for hard wired system.  I have a Ryobi
work generator that does this on both of my outback systems.  It says
in the instructions that it is not to be used for stationary
applications (ie normally grounded systems).

John

On Tue, Jan 3, 2023 at 9:16 AM Jay via RE-wrenches
 wrote:
>
> Has anyone had a vfx sort of not pay attention to it charging current 
> settings,
>
> I have a customer who’s older vfx will do the following
>
> Settings are 5 amps ac, 5 amp ac  charge
>
> It’ll run at about 10 amps dc charging
> Then randomly go up to 30 amps dc then back down. Maybe 15 seconds
> Later go up to 25 amps and back down. Kinda all over the place
>
> Then will stay at the lower amps for some period of time.
>
> I’m thinking it’s a hardware problem?
>
> And given the age a new board set is probably in order.
>
> Thoughts?
>
> Thx
> Jay
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Old Trace SW inverter connected to the grid.

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Todd has the right answer. The AC2 input will not sell to the grid as you
would not want to sell to the generator.

On Mon, Dec 19, 2022 at 12:21 PM Foxfire Energy via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> I’m thinking the simple fix is to just make sure the breaker between the
> grid and inverter is off when you’re running the generator.. JMHO..
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Dec 19, 2022, at 10:52 AM, Tump via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>  I have neve heard that but I would connect the utility to the AC1 input
> as the window is quite narrow then the grid. The GTI was a piss poor way
> for trace to regulate “sell” current would ramp up & back down all day
> long. NOT necessary. BUT then again that old duffer; SH  probably has more
> brain cells left then I do.
>
> On Dec 19, 2022, at 10:27 AM, Chad Waits via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
> I thought the SW needed a Grid Tie Interface (GTI)
> 
> to keep current from leaking out to the grid even if you didn;t want to
> sell to them...
>
> Chad Waits
> President - Net Zero Solar
> 945 W. Silverlake, Tucson, AZ 85713
> Cell: (520) 270-4873
>
>
>
> On Mon, Dec 19, 2022 at 8:21 AM David Palumbo via RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:
>
>> Wrenches,
>>
>>
>>
>> I have been retired from doing solar installs for 10 years now and I am
>> reaching out for help as to recommending a solution to an old
>> do-it-yourself customers question.
>>
>> His solar system that was formerly off-grid and is now using grid power
>> instead of a back up generator.
>>
>> He had/has no intention of doing a net-metered system. Just trying to
>> reduce dependance on a fossil fuel genset during our mostly sunless Vermont
>> winters.
>>
>>
>>
>> He says that he brought in power a few years ago to run their expanding
>> maple sugaring operation located next to their house. At that time they ran
>> a 115Vac circuit (grid power) over to their house and connected grid power
>> into AC Hot In terminal #! in their Trace SW 2512. This is correct as I see
>> terminal #2 is labeled for generator power.
>>
>> He has the Trace programmed for float mode  not sell mode.
>>
>>
>>
>> Their local utility was working on the line nearby on the main road and
>> noticed a small amount of current flowing into the grid and figured out
>> where it was coming from. The utility did not immediately shut him down.
>> Just told him to correct the problem. He is asking me for advice.
>>
>>
>>
>> My first inclination is to separate the grid power completely from the
>> inverter power and to feed both power sources into a double pole double
>> throw transfer switch. What other options should be considered.
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks in advance and happy holidays,
>>
>>
>>
>> Dave Palumbo
>>
>> Formerly > Independent Power & Light
>>
>> Hyde Park, VT
>>
>> 802-371-8678 voice or text
>>
>>
>>
>>
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> 

Re: [RE-wrenches] Low voltage lithiums

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Great timely topic.  I Have a new installation with 3 eFlex and radian
system.  Setting were per Outback and Fortress and we had a series of
mid day hi voltage shut downs when our November sun returned.  Luckily
it has Optics and the unattended house is now happy with lowered top
voltages.  Ray, nice comment that we don't have any reason to charge
full now.

John Blittersdorf

On Sat, Nov 19, 2022 at 1:10 PM Dana Orzel via RE-wrenches
 wrote:
>
> Another issue is what charge controller are you using? I know for me with 
> Outback products I’ve had to switch from an FM 80 to the OB - FM 100 in order 
> to have a more accurate high-voltage cut out voltage.
> The FM 100 has a much more accurate micro processor in it then the FM 60 or 
> 80 per Brad Bassett with AEE.
>
> Dana Orzel
> C: 208.721.7003
> E- d...@solarwork.com
>
> On Nov 19, 2022, at 7:15 AM, Jeff Clearwater via RE-wrenches 
>  wrote:
>
> Hi Kris
>
> What voltage do you have your charge settings at?
>
> I recommend that bulk or absorb voltage for lithium iron phosphate not be set 
> above 56 V  - there is no reason for it even though many manufactures suggest 
> higher settings.  In cases where total storage is sized generously enough 
> I  often use 55.6 or even 55.4 in order to target 95% as full instead of 100% 
> in order to extend cycle life.   and for float there’s no reason to ever go 
> over 54 V and better maybe even to be in the mid-53s.
>
> See if that helps assuming you had it higher.
>
> The other thought is you have one bms that is perhaps not protecting 
> overcharge  and allowing a temporary spike when the others do limit.
>
> Hope that helps!
>
> Best Jeff C.
> Village Power Design
>
>
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Nov 19, 2022, at 6:32 AM, Kristopher Schmid via RE-wrenches 
>  wrote:
>
> 
> Greetings all,
>
> I have seen an issue on two different systems that I am hoping someone can 
> shed some light on for me.  One was a 48 volt pack of 12 volt Battle Bornes 
> and the other was a 24 volt pack of SOKs.  What happens is when reaching the 
> end of the bulk charging stage, the battery voltage spikes and sends the 
> inverter into an overvoltage error.  Can anyone explain what is happening and 
> a solution?
>
> Thanks,
> Kris
>
> Shine On!
>
> Kris Schmid
> Legacy Solar, LLC
> 137 West 1st Avenue
> Luck, WI 54853
> www.legacysolar.com
> 715-653-4295
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> Licensed Wisconsin Master Electrician
> BSEE
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Butt End Connector Warning

[John via RE-wrenches]

There used to be a chart – supplied years ago – that listed all the metals and 
showed what was compatible – or not compatible with different metals.

Sadly I can’t seem to find it, but one of the older guys might still have a 
copy of that chart.

Cheers – John Veix, N.Z.

 

From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf Of 
Christopher Warfel via RE-wrenches
Sent: Friday, 7 October 2022 2:42 am
To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
Cc: Christopher Warfel 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Butt End Connector Warning

 

You cannot use them with Al. The connection will disintegrate over time. I have 
pictures somewhere of mismatching rail bonding connectors that were gone in a 
year. Chris  

On 10/6/2022 9:32 AM, Drake Chamberlin via RE-wrenches wrote:

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 






-- 

 Christopher Warfel
 ENTECH Engineering, Inc.
PO Box 871, Block Island, RI 02807
401-466-8978
 <http://entech-engineering.com/> 



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Re: [RE-wrenches] Micro inverter module direct to electric hot water heater

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Glen, You are correct. It is an electric tank water heater according to
Home Depot.

Thanks for Cybo.

John

On Tue, Jun 28, 2022 at 7:23 PM Glenn Burt  wrote:

> Hi John,
>
> Cybo inverters.
>
> You hit a pet peeve in your post and I must comment as we really need to
> be leaders. We have water heaters and hot water tanks... Why would we have
> a 'hot water heater'?
>
> -Glenn
> Sent from my 'smart'phone, so please excuse typos and spelling errors.
>
> -- Original message--
> *From: *John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches
> *Date: *Tue, Jun 28, 2022 6:04 PM
> *To: *RE-wrenches;
> *Cc: *John Blittersdorf;
> *Subject:*[RE-wrenches] Micro inverter module direct to electric hot
> water heater
>
> Awhile back there was a thread about a micro inverter that could be used
> to connect directly to an electric hot water heater.  Can someone steer me
> to that thread or the inverter manufacturer?
>
> John Blittersdorf
>
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[RE-wrenches] Micro inverter module direct to electric hot water heater

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Awhile back there was a thread about a micro inverter that could be used to
connect directly to an electric hot water heater.  Can someone steer me to
that thread or the inverter manufacturer?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Li Replacements for Lead-acid Bank

[John Blittersdorf via RE-wrenches]

Matt,  I have several systems with the same mix working ok except that the
low battery cutoff can’t be set high enough to shut down the inverter
before the BMS shuts off the battery.  Have had to manually restart the
batteries.  Problem only occurs if generator doesn’t start as programmed or
manually started.  I install an iota 48v charger wired into the dc bus to
jump start the system in worst case scenario where charge controllers are
also shut down and generator can feed in bypass mode to provide a hot
outlet for the IOTA.  The IOTA charger also serves as a small backup
generator input pathway without having to change any charger settings in
the inverter.

John B

On Fri, Jun 10, 2022 at 7:08 AM Matt Sherald via RE-wrenches <
re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org> wrote:

> Hello Wrenches,
>
> I've got customers with an ailing battery bank and I'm working to sketch
> out a replacement plan.  I'd like to offer them a Li option, but they have
> a suite of older electronics and I'm writing to ask the list if anyone
> feels like they've settled on a Li brand that works well with pre-Li
> electronics.  Glad for any suggestions.  Thanks in advance!
>
> The bank size is currently 1,110Ah/48V.  The following electronics are
> installed:
> 2008 OB VFX
> 2012 OB VFX
> 2008 OB MX60
> 2012 MS Classic X2
>
> 2008 OB Mate
> 2010 Trimetric
>
> -Matt
>
> --
> Matt Sherald
> PIMBY Energy, LLC
> 304-704-5943
>
> www.getpimby.blogspot.com
> www.getpimby.com
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Monitoring on Remote Sites

[John Blittersdorf]

Dan, are the 900 MHz flat panels still available.   I’m looking at a need
for a 1000’ bridge with some trees in the way.  I could also do a two step
going from my house to my barn 800’ away clear shot and then to the cabin
another 300’ clear shot. Is that possible? I’m getting Starlink to replace
my Viasat and need internet at the guest cabin.

John Blittersdorf

On Mon, Mar 14, 2022 at 2:52 PM Dan Fink  wrote:

> I concur with Luke Christy below - I have had great success with Ubiquiti
> wireless bridges. If the line of sight is not completely clear, their 2 and
> 5gHz dishes can be problematic, but their 900mHz flat panels will work
> through a moderate amount of vegetation. I'm using that one to write this
> email right now in fact, have not had to touch or reboot anything in 4
> years. Note that they are *not* wifi extenders, you need another wifi
> router on the other end connected to the far side of the bridge.
>
> Dan Fink
> Owner, Buckville Energy Consulting LLC
> IREC Certified Instructor for PV and Small Wind Installation
> NABCEP Certified PV System Inspector
> NABCEP PV Associate
> d anbo...@gmail.com
> 970-672-4342
>
> On Mon, Mar 14, 2022 at 12:39 PM Dave Tedeyan 
> wrote:
>
>> Luke,
>> I wanted to try out Ubiquiti products, and bought a NanoStation M2, but
>> haven't installed it yet. With the Lighbeam, can any device connect to it?
>> If so, I know at least the SMA SB wifi can only connect to 2Ghz, and not
>> 5Ghz. I'll have to see if there is a 2Ghz option. This is why I cannot use
>> the Engenius equipment anymore, since their 202 replacement is 5Ghz only.
>> Cheers,
>> Dave
>>
>> On Mon, Mar 14, 2022 at 2:28 PM Luke Christy 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Adam,
>>> I would second Dave’s suggestion to use wireless bridges for this
>>> application -if hardwired internet access is available elsewhere on the
>>> property and if there is decent line of sight access between that point and
>>> where your equipment lives.
>>>
>>> I have used a lot of Ubiquiti Litebeam point-to-point links for this
>>> sort of thing and they are awesome. They have given me rock solid
>>> dependability once they are set up and configured, they function just like
>>> a virtual ethernet cable over the radio link, and you can even have a
>>> single access point transmit to multiple stations. Range for the
>>> entry-level Litebeam M5 unit is up to 10km and you can get a pre-configured
>>> pair of antenna dishes on Amazon for less than $200. Two devices can be had
>>> for around $100 if you are willing to configure them yourself with a laptop
>>> or the UISP app from Ubiquiti.   Worth checking out. Other versions are
>>> available with longer range and more features but I have found the Litebeam
>>> M5 is very affordable and works well for most shorter-range applications.
>>>
>>>
>>> Luke Christy
>>>
>>> Renewable energy consultant.
>>>
>>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional™:
>>>
>>> Solar Gain Services, LLC
>>> PO Box 531
>>> Monte Vista, CO. 81144
>>> sgsrenewab...@gmail.com 
>>> 719.588.3044
>>>
>>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 2nd VFX3648 added to double charger rate

[John Blittersdorf]

>
> The system is 120v only from the generator and the house is 120 only.
>

John

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Re: [RE-wrenches] 2nd VFX3648 added to double charger rate

[John Blittersdorf]

   I just checked my stock of control boards and just happen to have a
new unopened in the box that is firmware #68, same as the new used inverter
I installed.  I guess to be sure Outback wont have any other suggestions, I
will install the new board.  I charged the customer enough for the used
inverter to cover a control board.  First I will set the newer one as
Master and his older one as slave to see if it makes any difference. In the
description of the stacking configurations, There was no mention of Hub
requirements. I assume with these older inverters the older Hub should be
fine.   We ran lots of inverters at SolarFest with the old equipment.  I
know we are not supposed to promote things on this list but SolarFest in
Vermont will be in Brandon July 16-17.  SolarFest.org

On Sun, Mar 20, 2022 at 11:22 AM Kirk Herander  wrote:

> Do you have the proper hub 10.3 installed? And are the jumpers set
> correctly? Mate3S? it almost sounds like the slave is set in the Mate not
> to charge. And if not plugged into the correct hub port, stuff like this
> happens also. And the Mate3 might not work properly with newer inverters,
> as I remember.
>
> On Sun, Mar 20, 2022 at 10:55 AM Sindelar Solar 
> wrote:
>
>> John,
>> I've never faced your situation so can't address it directly. However, I
>> don't think matching firmware requires replacing a control board. Can't you
>> just update the firmware to the latest for that legacy product using a
>> Mate3?
>> The firware for these should be available at
>> https://www.outbackpower.com/resources-mobile/technical-support/firmware-updates/item/fxr-vfxr-series-firmware-archive
>> Allan
>>
>> On 3/20/2022 8:14 AM, John Blittersdorf wrote:
>>
>> Wrenches, I just added a 2nd VFX3648 stacked as SLAVE L1 to increase
>> charging of his new eVault 18.5 from 12kw Kohler gen. It connects to the
>> generator but doesn’t charge.  I read in the manual that both inverters
>> must be the same firmware revision.  Once hooked up I found that the added
>> inverter was rev #68 and the original one rev 61.  Would it be possible to
>> switch which inverter is the master and have the newer one recognize the
>> older one.? Otherwise is my only option to put a new control board in the
>> original inverter? And possibly also in the new one.  Anyone know what the
>> latest rev or last one was?
>>
>> John Blittersdorf
>>
>>
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>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 2nd VFX3648 added to double charger rate

[John Blittersdorf]

Allan,
   The new VFXR has updatable firmware through the MATE3 but the old series
has firmware on the control board but not updatable.  I have run into this
before but lucked out that both older inverters had the same firmware.

John

On Sun, Mar 20, 2022 at 10:55 AM Sindelar Solar 
wrote:

> John,
> I've never faced your situation so can't address it directly. However, I
> don't think matching firmware requires replacing a control board. Can't you
> just update the firmware to the latest for that legacy product using a
> Mate3?
> The firware for these should be available at
> https://www.outbackpower.com/resources-mobile/technical-support/firmware-updates/item/fxr-vfxr-series-firmware-archive
> Allan
>
> On 3/20/2022 8:14 AM, John Blittersdorf wrote:
>
> Wrenches, I just added a 2nd VFX3648 stacked as SLAVE L1 to increase
> charging of his new eVault 18.5 from 12kw Kohler gen. It connects to the
> generator but doesn’t charge.  I read in the manual that both inverters
> must be the same firmware revision.  Once hooked up I found that the added
> inverter was rev #68 and the original one rev 61.  Would it be possible to
> switch which inverter is the master and have the newer one recognize the
> older one.? Otherwise is my only option to put a new control board in the
> original inverter? And possibly also in the new one.  Anyone know what the
> latest rev or last one was?
>
> John Blittersdorf
>
>
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[RE-wrenches] 2nd VFX3648 added to double charger rate

[John Blittersdorf]

Wrenches, I just added a 2nd VFX3648 stacked as SLAVE L1 to increase
charging of his new eVault 18.5 from 12kw Kohler gen. It connects to the
generator but doesn’t charge.  I read in the manual that both inverters
must be the same firmware revision.  Once hooked up I found that the added
inverter was rev #68 and the original one rev 61.  Would it be possible to
switch which inverter is the master and have the newer one recognize the
older one.? Otherwise is my only option to put a new control board in the
original inverter? And possibly also in the new one.  Anyone know what the
latest rev or last one was?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Fair price for an obsolete component

[John Blittersdorf]

If the need is for a second VFX inverter to add to an existing one to
double charge rate for a new LiFePO battery, then it is worth 3 Iota
chargers ~ $1000.



On Saturday, December 11, 2021, Jay  wrote:

> Hi Drake
>
> Just like with Allan’s remote, I couldn’t find any used ones on line to
> even give an idea of cost comparison. I must be doing my searches wrong.
>
> A new inverter is about $1700, a replacement board is $350. So if you got
> $500 for it, + the $350 puts you at $850 or about 1/2 price for a 15 year
> old component, which seems too high to me. If you asked $250, then it’s
> about 1/3 of the cost of new, which sounds ok to me. But damn that’s not
> much for it.
>
> Almost worth keeping as a loaner or spare at that price.
>
> Jay
>
> Peltz power.
>
>
> On Dec 11, 2021, at 8:36 AM, drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org wrote:
>
> 
>
> Another legacy item I would like to find a value for is a 15 year old VFX
> 3524 off grid inverter. The AC voltage fluctuates a bit, so maybe it could
> use another control board.  The cover plate (valve cover) is missing.
> Otherwise it works.
>
> I did an upgrade on a system and offered to buy the old components, but
> have little idea what this old Outback is worth.
>
>
> Drake Chamberlin
>
> Athens Electric LLC
>
> Ohio Electrical Contractor’s License 44810
>
> CO Master Electrician’s License 4526
>
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> ---
>
>
>
> On 2021-12-10 20:55, Ray Walters wrote:
>
> All else fails, I just would go back to the Trace retail, give it a 10%
> for being used, and call it good.   $165?no one will complain about
> that
> On 12/10/2021 6:42 PM, Jerry Shafer wrote:
>
> Truely it depends, if someone is looking and needing that part, the sky is
> the limit, its its just going from one shelf to another will next to
> Nothing. I have SMA, Trace and bogart monitors all antiques now unless you
> find that guy that wants and needs it.
> So 25.00 to 200.00
> Jerry
>
> On Thu, Dec 9, 2021, 11:38 PM Sindelar Solar 
> wrote:
>
> What would be a fair and equitable price to ask for a good used Trace SW
> Remote display unit with the cable included, please?
> Obviously there will likely be a range of opinions. I'd simply like to get
> a sense of the range among us Wrenches.
> Thank you,
> Allan
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@sindelarsolar.com
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>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian 8048's shutting down on generator stop

[John Blittersdorf]

Not sure if this thread is still going but sounds like a sticking input
relay.  That would explain why it would shut down but then work again.
Momentarily generator would still be connected to the output when the
inverter was supposed to go back to inverting.  Should be an input relay
error though.

John B

On Tue, Nov 2, 2021 at 9:41 PM jay  wrote:

> You can find the temperature compensation voltage in the battery hot
> button.
> It might be a bad temp sensor
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
>
> On Nov 2, 2021, at 2:46 PM, Jason Szumlanski <
> ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:
>
> Whoa! I just got access to his OpticsRE. It says battery voltage reached
> as high as 66V!!! (48V Nominal). I don't know if that's true yet or a
> acrtually voltage metering issue. But it appears that when the generator
> stops the invert mode kicks in and immediately shuts down due to high
> battery voltage. I guess the inverters were coming back alive when the
> voltage settled to the normal range. But the homeowner reports that when he
> manually restarts the system the battery is around 54V. I'm not sure how
> long after the shutdown this occurs.
>
> So at this point I told him he needs to be very careful and make sure he's
> not cooking the batteries by testing with a volt meter during charging to
> see what's really going on.
>
> I'm concerned because the FNDC, both GS8048s and both FM100s all report
> abnormally high battery voltage. That suggest that the voltage is actually
> that high. But the charger setpoints are clearly set to defaults for absorb
> and float. I don't know why the voltage would blow past the setpoints.
>
> I misspoke in my initial email. He has AGS voltage start and SOC start set
> up.
>
>
>
>
> On Tue, Nov 2, 2021 at 3:09 PM Jason Szumlanski <
> ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:
>
>> I have a client (DIY) who has dual 8048's and he is starting the
>> generator using both high load and low voltage settings with the AGS. It
>> worked flawlessly for 9 months. Then for a couple of months when the
>> generator shut down the lights would flicker. Eventually it started
>> shutting down his loads completely for a couple of minutes and it would
>> start back up automatically. Now when the generator shuts down the
>> inverters shut down and need to be restarted manually.
>>
>> He said there is an error code but he never wrote it down.
>>
>> Any ideas given the sequence of events?
>>
>> Lead acid batteries. 20kW generator. Despite it being DIY from an online
>> wholesaler, he did hire a licensed electrician and that electrician
>> consulted with me a bit prior to installation, so it's a pretty good job.
>> I'm thinking it's an internal Radian setting or fault causing this.
>>
>> Jason Szumlanski
>> Florida Solar Design Group
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Radian Generator Relay

[John Blittersdorf]

You may have alteady checked this but make sure AGS is enabled.  I had that
problem just this morning and after checking continuity of the wires again
noticed that AGS was disabled.

John Blittersdorf

On Tue, Sep 14, 2021 at 1:55 PM Michael Morningstar 
wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> I’ve got a Radian 8048/Mate 3S that no longer is activating the relay
> responsible for generator starting. I’ve power cycled everything and
> updated firmware. When I attempt to start the generator via the Mate 3S,
> the relay does not close.
>
> Any suggestions before I look into replacing the relay/board?
>
> Which board do I order and what is the best source?
>
> Many thanks,
> Michael
>
>
>
>
>
> *Michael **Morningstar*
>
> *  Morningstar Electric*
> PO Box 1494
> Mount Shasta, California 96067
> 530-921-0560
> CSLB 949635
>
>
>
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[RE-wrenches] Honda 3000i low ac output

[John Blittersdorf]

I have a Honda 3000i for my off grid system that shows 84 vac output.  I
suspect that the inverter is failing.  Just checking to see if any of you
have seen this failure mode?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Exploding LFP battery

[John Blittersdorf]

This just proves the weak link is the BMS.
I had the honor of replacing the BMS in that exact model in a stack of 3
batteries.  Luckily it was on the bottom shelf so I could pull the monster
out onto the floor to get access to the lid.  The lid is sealed shut but
with persistence it opened.  I was working with their tech support and
following their instructions.  I disconnected it from the other two that
were in a parallel configuration before opening.  Battery voltage was zero
at the terminals. I did voltage checks at various checkpoints to confirm it
was the BMS at fault. Relion sent a new BMS which I carefully installed and
it has worked fine since.  Had I seen this photo first, I may have not been
so eager to see the inside of that battery.

John Blittersdorf

On Wed, Jun 16, 2021 at 6:13 PM Chris Worcester 
wrote:

> https://www.redwoodmaterials.com/recyclewithus
> these folks are seriously getting into recycling lithium batteries,
> setting up house out by the Tesla giga factory out east of Reno.
>
>
>
> Chris Worcester
> ch...@solarwindworks.com
> 530-448-9692
>
> Sent from my Samsung Galaxy s9.
>
>
>  Original message 
> From: jay 
> Date: 6/16/21 12:49 PM (GMT-08:00)
> To: Jeff Clearwater , Jeff Clearwater <
> je...@villagepowerdesign.com>, RE-wrenches <
> re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org>
> Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Exploding LFP battery
>
> Hi Jeff,
>
> I don’t know if you saw the photo.  No cutting involved.
> The top is removed with roughly 14 fasteners.
> No tools or prying was involved in the removal of the top cover.
>
> jay
>
> On Jun 16, 2021, at 12:00 AM, Jeff Clearwater <
> je...@villagepowerdesign.com> wrote:
>
> Hey Jay,
>
> So I don't believe ReLion batteries are openable - so it's most likely
> that when he decided to open it he cut into it and shorted the leads.
>
> As for recycling - first is health safety!  I'd suggest he contact the
> manufacturer and get specific instructions for safing the mess.  Will
> Prowess of DIY Solar Youtube channel had some leaky cells and the
> manufacturer sent specific instructions to contain and ship back the unit.
> You could contact him and he might know but the manufacturer might know
> better for that specific model.
>
> Hope that helps!
>
> Jeff C.
> Village Power Design
>
> frenergy 
>
> June 15, 2021 at 9:39 PM
>
> Very few details...What does it mean "he opened it up"  I would even know
> how to do that with the L-ions I've been around, seems like its something a
> manufacturer should be doing.  Temperature?  charge rate? recent usage
> history? Age? Was it disconnected? Did contacts touch a conductor?
>
> You can probably get water to explode if you abuse it just
> right.
>
> Bill
> Feather River Solar Electric
> Bill Battagin, Owner
> 4291 Nelson St.
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/4291+Nelson+St.+Taylorsville,+CA+95983?entry=gmail=g>
> Taylorsville, CA 95983
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/4291+Nelson+St.+Taylorsville,+CA+95983?entry=gmail=g>
> 530.284.7849
> CA Lic 874049
> www.frenergy.net
> On 6/15/2021 8:14 PM, Jay wrote:
> --
>
>
> --
> [image: Avast logo] <https://www.avast.com/antivirus>
>
> This email has been checked for viruses by Avast antivirus software.
> www.avast.com <https://www.avast.com/antivirus>
>
>
>
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> Jay 
>
> June 15, 2021 at 8:14 PM
> A fellow installer sent me this just now.
> The battery wasn’t working, 5v.
> He opened it up and it exploded when he opened it. The lid hit the roof.
> Fortunately no one was injured.
>
> Anyone know what to do with this? IE recycling?
>
> And just another example of non explosive lithium batteries exploding
>
> Jay
> Peltz power.
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] grundfos SQFlex question

[John Blittersdorf]

Jay,
   Lorentz still has two people in texas. I can’t find an active dealer but
they do provide excellent tech support 24/7.  I have to buy from a dealer
but the ones that I have called only get one if specified on a new well
they are drilling. They didn’t know much about them.

John B

On Tue, Jun 15, 2021 at 5:34 PM jay  wrote:

> Does anyone have or know where I can get the pump curves with voltages?
>
> I’m trying to limit flow by lowering the voltage, which I know works, but
> I can’t find the output vs voltage charts.
>
> And does anyone know if Lorentz is still active in the USA?
> The last time i checked their controller had the ability for flow/speed
> adjustment.
>
> Thanks
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
>
>
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[RE-wrenches] J Box adhesive failure.

[John Blittersdorf]

I have a customer with two TOP racks of 8 Astropower 140’s and one panel
has a j box that separated from the backing sheet but the wires are still
connected.  I’ve tried several adhesives but they eventually give up.  The
house was just sold and an inspector is coming   To check out the house.
Owner is sure that this loose box will be found by the inspector and jinx
the sale.  Anybody know of a super adhesive that will hold up?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Grid overvoltage and undervoltage issues on SMA install

[John Blittersdorf]

I agree with voltage drop,  I had two sb4000’s with this issue.  Power
company said it was on
Our side but I was sure it was the long run from the utility transformer.
They finally agreed and ran a heavier line.  Problem solved.  One
observation that was puzzling was that only one inverter would be off when
I arrived and it wasn’t always the same one.  When one shut off due to over
voltage, the voltage would drop and the second one would stay on.  Both had
the exact same upper voltage limit.

John B
On Thu, May 20, 2021 at 3:23 PM August Goers  wrote:

> Hi James -
>
> Is there a long run between the inverters and the point of
> interconnection? As others have pointed out, it appears that the symptoms
> you describe are voltage drop related. If the wire size is too small it
> will result in voltage at the inverters going up when current starts to
> flow. The inverters match the voltage at the utility point of connection.
> If, for example, the voltage at the main service panel is 240 volts and you
> have a 10% voltage drop due to undersized wires, you'd see 240 x 1.10 = 264
> v at the inverters. Sometimes this issue is compounded if the utility
> voltage is a little on the high side, which can happen at the end of the
> distribution lines.
>
> There could be other explanations as well.
>
> Best, August
>
> On Thu, May 20, 2021 at 10:25 AM Jerry Shafer 
> wrote:
>
>> Wrenches
>> Looks like the i verter is doing what it should 269 is out of range, what
>> is the at meter voltage, libe loss or very high output voltage, 41 volts
>> increase looks like resistance issues. More info would help, distance, wire
>> size etc.
>> Jerry
>> Jerry
>>
>>
>> On Thu, May 20, 2021, 9:52 AM James Reismiller 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi Folks,
>>>
>>> I’m wondering if anybody has ideas on what could be causing grid
>>> over/undervoltage errors on an install we did about a year ago that now has
>>> these issues. The site is a 24 kW DC ground mount array with (3) SMA
>>> SB7.0-1SP-US-40 inverters. I’ve checked and done the following:
>>>
>>>1. Measured voltage min/max at inverter terminals and AC combiner.
>>>Min – 228VAC (with no inverter output) Max - 269 VAC (when inverter 
>>> trying
>>>to connect)!
>>>2. Had utility check service and transformer with load meter (with
>>>no PV running). No issues found and utility engineer stated he thinks 
>>> it’s
>>>on our side.
>>>3. Checked all AC connections including neutral (seemed like neutral
>>>issue) from inverters back to supply-side tap (fused disco).
>>>4. Changed SMA upper voltage window in grid guard settings to 272V
>>>max and 264V reconnection. This helped for a while but now is faulting
>>>again.
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Have any of you ran into this issue and how did you solve it? Or what’s
>>> the next thing to check?
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Thanks in advance!
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> Be Well,
>>>
>>> James Reismiller
>>>
>>> He/Him/His
>>>
>>> NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer®
>>>
>>> Abundant Solar
>>>
>>> 541-231-8072  xt. 3
>>>
>>> CCB#175919
>>>
>>> www.abundantsolar.com
>>> <http://www.abundantsolar.com/abundantsolar/Home.html>
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> "Don't get me wrong: I love nuclear energy! It's just that I prefer
>>> fusion to fission. And it just so happens that there's an enormous fusion
>>> reactor safely banked a few million miles from us. It delivers more than we
>>> could ever use in just about 8 minutes. And it's wireless!"
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> ~William McDonough
>>>
>>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] OutBack Inverters

[John Blittersdorf]

Dave,
   An Alternate solution might be to find two good used VFX3524's.  All
circuit boards are available from Zonna if they need repair.  I have one if
you could find another somewhere.
Contact me off list if interested.

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™



CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com

On Mon, May 17, 2021 at 4:18 PM  wrote:

> I am considering swapping in new OutBack inverters into one of my
> neighborhoods 24V off grid systems. It now has two FX2524’s. The demands on
> the system have grown, now a two family home with a 240Vac mini-split for
> air conditioning and a 240Vac Grundfos SQ 1/2hp sub pump to be added this
> summer to the system. Drilling a well for a back-up to the gravity fed
> spring water which has been getting too low during the past few summers.
>
> I’m assuming that I should go with two VFXR3524’s.
>
> Will this be a direct swap in as far as having the same wiring setup into
> an OutBack Flexware system? And will it work with an older Mate?
>
> Anything else I should know about these OutBack “R” inverters?
>
>
>
> Dave Palumbo
>
> Hyde Park, VT
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[RE-wrenches] Honda EU7000is remote starting.

[John Blittersdorf]

I have a customer with a Honda EU7000is generator that has the propane
conversion and wireless remote starting setup with on/off and start
button.  I want to set it up to start with an Outback Mate3s and aux relay
in a VFXR3648. (2 wire start). Has anyone found a way to do this other than
a third party auto start module?

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Charging 48V Battery with One Module

[John Blittersdorf]

I have a Genasun 36 volt charger on my golf cart boosting from
a  Kyosera 245 panel (26.9vm 29 voc) on the roof of the cart.   Works
perfectly.  I'm starting year 12 running this rig with solar only.
I originally had 3 85 watt Sunwize panels on it and about 3 years ago I
decided I didn't like the water dripping between the panels when it rained
and had an orphan 245 so order the Genesun which lives under the seat next
to the batteries.

John Blittersdorf

.

On Mon, Apr 12, 2021 at 1:43 PM Jason Szumlanski <
ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:

> I want to charge a 51.2V LiPO battery with a single 420W 72-cell module.
> Vmp is 40.14V.
>
> It's one of those situations where I just need a lot of battery capacity
> as a backup for a specified time period, but it doesn't matter how long it
> takes to charge it back up. And I have space for exactly one 72-cell module.
>
> It's going to be a Victron inverter. I'm not sure if they make a DC-DC
> solution for this charging scenario or if there is another way to
> accomplish it without too much cost and complexity. I was half-heartedly
> thinking about an AC coupled microinverter, but that has drawbacks in terms
> of efficiency I think. Maybe that's not any worse than DC-DC conversion -
> I'm not sure. AC Coupling would probably be cheaper and easier. Monitoring
> might be difficult/limited. And AC coupling would require that the inverter
> be on (inverting) which isn't ideal for this situation either.
>
> Thanks in advance,
>
> Jason Szumlanski
> Florida Solar Design Group
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Re: [RE-wrenches] guyed tilt up tower suggestions

[John Blittersdorf]

Wind Wrenchers,
I have been searching the internet extensively in search of a
replacement and improvement for the Bergey XL.1.  Now that they are no
longer available, I have stooped to looking at anything that spins, looks
like the blades may stay on, a company that has been around for awhile, has
at least 5 reviews, and has a decent power curve.  So far I have found
two.  The SuperWind 1kw made in Germany is a strong, well made unit,
designed for mountaintop communications sites. Power production is modest
but it has survived two winters atop a 2800' mountain in Vermont.  As the
site is solar and generator powered and load is a modest 350 watts 24/7, it
has done very well reducing the generator time and saving lots of propane
and ATV or snowmobile trips up the mountain with 100 lb cylinders.  We have
it on a 45'  4" diameter tilt up tower custom made from Bergey and NRG
tower parts. The only problem has been icing events where we have seen up
to 2 weeks with no wind power after an icing event.  The nacelle and nose
cone clearance is paper thin, where ice can collect.  The unit is all white
so maybe a dark color would have melted off sooner.  Price for just the
turbine, controller and dump load was around $7 or $8K.
  The other one I just ordered and hope it works.  It is a 1000 watt
TUMO-INT 3 blade furling tail 48v turbine with controller and dump load.
The power curve is slightly better than the XL.1  It was on sale on Amazon
for $999.00.  I should have it in 3 weeks and will report if it works.  It
is about the same weight as the Bergey XL.1.  I have an 85' NRG tilt up
tower on the ground waiting for a new turbine.  I had a PIKA 1.6kw for a
year and a half and it worked great but had to sell it to one of my
customers when PIKA stopped making them.  It is still running fine at my
customers place.
   What I really want is for the PIKA to be put back in production.  It was
a perfect off grid supplement with no issues that I could see.

John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™



CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com



On Fri, Apr 2, 2021 at 1:56 AM Chris Worcester 
wrote:

> Hi Chris,
>
> Lake Michigan Wind & Sun made a really good tilt up using 5” pipe sourced
> locally with their engineered tower kit. Not cheap but you got what you
> paid for!
>
>
>
> Chris Worcester
>
> Solar Wind Works
>
> NABCEP PV Installation Professional
>
> Cell 530-448-9692
>
> www.solarwindworks.com
>
> ch...@solarwindworks.com
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *Chris Schaefer
> *Sent:* Thursday, April 01, 2021 11:43 AM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Subject:* [RE-wrenches] guyed tilt up tower suggestions
>
>
>
> G'day All,
>
>
>
> We don't seem to see much on wind these days on the wrenches, so now is
> the time to blow out some of the cobwebs. Anyway, I'm getting dragged
> kicking and screaming into a Missouri Raptor 7 blade Freedom 1.6kw offgrid
> wind project and in search of a tilt up tower. Back in the day it would
> have come from SWWP but now I haven't a clue. The client already purchased
> the turbine but if you have any experience with this unit and things to be
> aware of that would be appreciated as well. System voltage is 48vdc.
>
>
>
> Stay healthy my friends,
>
> Christopher-
>
> Chris Schaefer’s
> <http://www.solarandwindfx.com>
>
> *Tel/Fax 585-229-2083 or Cell 585-748-1870 *
> *5115 South Hill Road ~ Canandaigua New York 14424www.solarandwindfx.com
> <http://www.solarandwindfx.com> ~ E-mail: **ch...@solarandwindfx.com
> *
>
> Thomas Jefferson, the author of our great Constitution, once said,
> "democracy" will cease to exist when you take away from those who are
> willing to work and give to those who would not."
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Small, non-Tesla GTBB system design

[John Blittersdorf]

William,
   I agree with you with Radian, Fortress and just add a subpanel identical
to the main grid panel as close possible. Put all critical loads on sub and
larger loads on grid panel.  Being side by side, swapping circuits is easy.
I also install an iota charger for generator redundancy. OpticRE works
great for monitoring.

John Blittersdorf

On Wed, Mar 3, 2021 at 1:19 AM William Miller 
wrote:

> Friends:
>
>
>
> I am getting asked more often to provide design for grid-tied battery
> backup systems.  I generally try to talk clients out of battery backup
> because I have always felt that the grid is the greenest battery and that
> the grid reliability is better than one might remember.  However, with
> climate change and media attention, the need and market pressure is
> becoming stronger.
>
>
>
> I am really interested in what others have created in the way of solutions
> to this question.  I have thought about it a lot.  If its ok, I’d like to
> free-associate about some of my concerns and conclusions then ask if any of
> you are willing to share your ideas on how best to fill this need.  Here
> goes:
>
>
>
> I am a firm believer in segregate load delivery for these reasons:
>
> 1.   To back up an entire grid service you have to, in good conscience,
> perform a thorough load study and provide enough through-transfer to
> provide for maximum load conditions during grid up-time.  The backup system
> cannot be a supply bottle-neck.
>
> 2.   I don’t accept manual load-shedding for one moment.  What if the AC
> and the dryer are running when the grid goes out?  The system crashes.
>
> 3.   In a home with whole-house backup, it is difficult for the consumer
> to know there is an outage and to conserve.  Cellphone notification
> features are now more common, but cell phone batteries die and phones get
> left in the other room with the ringer off, so it is possible for
> homeowners to leave consumptive loads on after the grid goes down.
>
>
>
> Conclusion:  With segregated loads, the transfer, inverter and storage can
> be scaled down and the reliability increases.  Less cost, better
> performance.
>
>
>
> So given that the system sizing will be modest, has anyone come up with a
> reasonable design using standard, grid-sell capable battery inverters?
>
>
>
> Here is how I am imagining such a system:
>
>
>
> I see a modest battery system with a 4 to 8 KW inverter, DC coupled PV and
> a matching no-maintenance battery system. It would have these components:
>
>
>
> Inverter:  Must have a dedicated generator and grid input and good remote
> monitoring,  robust web interface and email notification.  Outback Radian.
>
>
>
> Batteries:  Gel or lithium.  I have a client that has been grid-floating a
> set of MK Powered gel batteries since 1999.  Or a Blue Planet or Fortress
> cabineted system.
>
>
>
> Generator:  Small pad-mount natural gas or propane fueled generator or a
> portable gas powered unit with stabilized gas.  If the generator is
> portable, provide an AC flanged inlet and sturdy cord long enough so
> generator can be 10 feet from any opening in the home.  Provide durable
> signage on the generator indicating CO safety practices.
>
>
>
> PV: DC coupled for simplicity.  Sized based on annual energy needs, not on
> critical loads.  Grid power is likely to go down in the stormy winter
> months or smoky fire season, so PV is not a reliable energy source during
> grid outages.
>
>
>
> AC Distribution:  Segregated loads with at least one commonly used
> lighting circuit not on the critical loads panel so the homeowner soon
> realizes the power is out.
>
>
>
> Unless you are a Tesla dealer, I am sure many of you have gone through the
> same mental acrobatics trying to figure out the best solution to this
> design request.  I am very interested in what the rest of you may have come
> up with.
>
>
>
> Thanks in advance.
>
>
>
> William Miller
>
>
>
> Miller Solar
>
> 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/17395+Oak+Road,+Atascadero,+CA+93422?entry=gmail=g>
>
> 805-438-5600
>
> www.millersolar.com
>
> CA Lic. 773985
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Electric Crimper Recommendations

[John Blittersdorf]

Chad, what ballpark price for the Dewalt crimped.  Does it handle 4/0 heavy
duty lugs.   I’m getting too old for my hand crumper.

John Blittersdorf

On Sun, Feb 21, 2021 at 7:05 PM Chad Waits 
wrote:

> We bought the DeWalt version not too long ago. Makes great crimps and much
> easier to work with in tight spaces if you have too.
>
> Well worth the money...
>
>
> Chad Waits
> President-Net Zero Solar
> Cell: (520) 270-4873
>
>
>
> On Sun, Feb 21, 2021 at 2:40 PM Chris Sparadeo 
> wrote:
>
>> Hi all,
>>
>> I’m wondering if anyone has recommendations for an electric crimper tool
>> for battery lugs? I see that they can get expensive quickly, but a tool
>> that cuts down on the struggle is a tool worth considering.
>>
>> Thanks in advance!
>>
>> -Chris
>> --
>> Chris Sparadeo
>>
>>
>> C_802-369-4458
>> H_802-728-3059
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Re: [RE-wrenches] GVFX3524 fan replacement

[John Blittersdorf]

Hi Ron,
Yes it is field repairable. Just open up the inverter and the fan is in
that outer housing.  When lifting the case up, remember the fan power wire
needs by be unplugged as you lift the case as not to rip it off the circuit
board it is attached to.  Then you will just turn the case over and remove
the fan and replace with the new one.  Then carefully plug it back in
before completing the replacement of the case.

If you haven’t opened one up before, the red and black round plastic
spacers on the dc terminals are screwed off, the six small Phillips head
screws removed from the exposed AC board, and the 8 screws holding the case
to the inverter base removed and lift the case up part way until you can
see the fan wire.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service




On Sun, Feb 14, 2021 at 8:15 PM Ron Young  wrote:

> Hi Wrenches, I have a client with an Outback GVFX3524 inverter that has
> had a fan failure. I will check with Outback but thought I might get a head
> start here. Is this a field replaceable item? I know the boards are but not
> sure about the fan. Any info much appreciated, thanks.
>
> Ron
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] small handheld oscilloscopes

[John Blittersdorf]

Jay,
I just bought a Kmoon KKM828 for $80.55 on Amazon.  Got it in 12 days.
Works fine.  The last one I bought a few years ago was $170 and I lost it
and the one before that was $380 and it died from getting wet.  This is a
good multimeter with big colorful numbers when trying to read voltages in
dark places and has a sharper screen showing the waveform than the last one
I had.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service

On Sun, Jan 24, 2021 at 5:33 PM jay  wrote:

> HI All,
>
> Someone just told me about some small inexpensive Oscope.
>
> I’m wondering if anyone has any recommendations.
> I’ve been wanting one, and given the inexpensive price it might be a good
> option for simple waveform and diagnostics on problematic generators and
> inverters.
>
> Here is one for example.
>
>
> https://www.google.com/shopping/product/1?client=safari=kecheer+rechargeable+digital+oscilloscope=epd:16622952485030158500,eto:16622952485030158500_0,pid:16622952485030158500,prmr:1=X=0ahUKEwiZre6_qbXuAhUNWs0KHRUaB60Q9pwGCAs
>
> thanks
>
>
> jay
>
> peltz power
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Trimetric with Outback

[John Blittersdorf]

Bill,
I would just move the two solar negatives to the shunt B and attach the
trimetric across shunt b.  Shunt a and c are the two solar controllers and
that info is already sent to the Mate 3 from the controllers via the HUB.
I only use the FlexnetDC when I am trying to record other non outback
devices such as an Iota charger or wind input and install another TriMetric
to parse out that info for the customer in big red numbers.  The customer
will see net on the TriMetric and you can see the solar detail on the Mate
3.


John Blittersdorf

NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™

CV Wind Service (and solar)

200 West Road

N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625

www.offgridvermont.com


On Mon, Nov 23, 2020 at 12:05 AM frenergy  wrote:

> Wrenchers,
>
> I tried asking OB about this, no response.  New FlexPwer2
> installed in customer's basement, I like to keep the Mate with the system
> because the basement is my access point for future programming,
> troubleshooting, etc (rather than entering the house which many times is
> unoccupied)...no internet or cell service onsite.
>
> To have some system status info in the house for the customer
> I would like to install a Trimetric 2030 upstairs.  This looks a bit tricky
> with three shunts in the DC enclosure to monitor various in/outputs for the
> FNDC to function and display info properly for the Mate.  Where-o-where
> might the sense wire be connected to properly measure *NET *amps flowing
> hither and fro to supply the correct info for the Trimetric?  The picture
> should help, the two cables coming off the bottom (right side) of shunt "B"
> are inverter negs.
>
> Bill
>
> Feather River Solar Electric
> Bill Battagin, Owner
> 4291 Nelson St.
> Taylorsville, CA 95983
> 530.284.7849
> CA Lic 874049www.frenergy.net
>
>
>
> --
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback MX-60 replacement fan

[John Blittersdorf]

Allan,
Zonna Energy stocks most Outback parts.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service

On Wed, Nov 11, 2020 at 6:10 PM Sindelar Solar 
wrote:

> Esteemed Wrenches:
>
> Where can I purchase a replacement cooling fan for an older Outback MX-60
> controller?
>
> Thanks, Allan
>
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@sindelarsolar.com
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
> *505 780-2738 cell*
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Mixing Outback 100 series C with old FX system

[John Blittersdorf]

William, I don’t think the fm100 will be visible unless you reboot the
whole system with inverter attached to port 1 of hub, mate3s attached to
mate terminal in hub and fm100 plugged into port 2 of hub.  I’ve done this
numerous times and you can program the fm 100.  However, I have never left
an fm100 without a mate3.  Not sure if the charge controller will just keep
running blind when you unplug the mate 3s.  You could try it and see if if
it shows charging on a trimetric or with a clamp meter.  Yes, a mate3s and
fm100 and hub is quite a financial bite when just looking for higher
voltage or higher amperage controller.

John Blittersdorf



On Sat, Oct 17, 2020 at 10:11 AM Bradley Bassett 
wrote:

> I think there is a jumper in the FM100 that will allow the Mate3s to
> communicate with it. I don't remember off hand where it is and am not at a
> computer with that info, but maybe this will prompt a look at the manual to
> see if they mention it.
>
> Brad
>
> On Fri, Oct 16, 2020 at 11:11 PM William Miller 
> wrote:
>
>> Friends:
>>
>>
>>
>> I installed a Flexmax 100 today in a dual FX system circa 2003.  The
>> system has an oval Mate and it is no surprise the old Mate does not
>> communicate with the FM100 as this was made clear from the literature.
>>
>>
>>
>> I plugged in a new Mate3S directly into the FM100 hoping to connect and
>> see data, but alas, the display was almost entirely blank.  It only showed
>> the battery voltage which was 500 volts, which I guess is a promotion.
>>
>>
>>
>> I then tried plugging the FM100 into a Hub 10.3 and then into the
>> Mate3S.  Still no display.
>>
>>
>>
>> I’d like to field-check the FM100 with a Mate3 or 3S but don’t know how.
>> It used to be you could plug an MX60 into a Mate and get some semblance of
>> normality displayed.  Can I swap out the old hub with a 10.3 with the
>> inverters connected and get FM100 data?  Any ideas out there?
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks in advanced.
>>
>>
>>
>> William
>>
>>
>>
>> PS:  The FM100 is charging so that is not an issue.
>>
>>
>>
>> Wm
>>
>>
>>
>> Miller Solar
>>
>> 17395 Oak Road, Atascadero, CA 93422
>> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/17395+Oak+Road,+Atascadero,+CA+93422?entry=gmail=g>
>>
>> 805-438-5600
>>
>> www.millersolar.com
>>
>> CA Lic. 773985
>>
>>
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Optics RE

[John Blittersdorf]

Dan & Howie,
As Dan said, there was quite a long period getting out the kinks out of
Optics but now I'm not having any problems.  I'm monitoring 19 systems for
my customers and most problems recently have been getting a good internet
connection.  I finally got one on Huges Net working and all problems were
the wifi extender.  I put in a new one and it's working fine now.  I use
Exede (Viasat) at my house and it works fine hard wired to the
modem/router.  Had problems here with wifi extenders. The Optics is really
useful now trying to tweak systems with LiFePO batteries.  Those delicate
voltage settings sometimes require a few small adjustments to balance
between minimizing generator run time and keeping the battery from shutting
down.  The only problem lately with the Outback/Lithium combination is not
being able to set the low battery cutout high enough on the MATE 3 to get
the inverter to shut down before the battery does.   I've had a few system
shutdowns where I have had to go to the site and reboot the battery.  Many
of my customers are second homes and sometimes rented out so monitoring the
system is useful.  I have had a few situations where I have had to talk the
renters through manually starting a generator or rebooting a battery,
saving me a 3 hour round trip service call.

John Blittersdorf
NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer™
CV Wind Service (and solar)
200 West Road
N Chittenden, VT 05763



On Mon, Oct 12, 2020 at 11:01 PM Dan Fink  wrote:

> Mac;  Interesting to hear that you've had success via satellite internet.
> Which flavor was it, Hughes, Excede or both? It was 3-4 years ago that I
> tried and failed with it at 2 different sites (one was my own
> residence).there have been a few firmware updates since then, so I
> might just give it a try again.
> Satellite, powerline ethernet extenders, and LAN cable over 50 feet are on
> the official Outback "not recommended" list. Their networking document is
> located here:
>
> http://www.outbackpower.com/downloads/documents/appnotes/optics_conn_app_note.pdf
>
> Howie; I've found that a Klein Scout Pro 3 LAN cable tester is a handy and
> inexpensive tool for diagnosing bad or damaged-while-pulling LAN cables.
> And a cheap RJ-## LAN cable termination kit so you can make custom length
> cables for Outback and Midnite systems, instead of finding someplace to
> hide all the inevitable ugly extra cable length with the factory-supplied
> LAN cables.
>
> As for the Midnite remote monitor system, I've tried and failed on
> satellite, their application notes say it won't work, but I'd love to try
> it again if anyone else out there has had luck with Midnite over satellite.
>
> Dan Fink
> Owner, Buckville Energy Consulting
> NABCEP Certified PV System Inspector
> IREC Certified Instructor™ for:
> ~ PV Installation Professional
> ~ Small Wind Installer
> NABCEP Registered Continuing Education Providers
> d anbo...@gmail.com
> 970-672-4342
>
>
>
>
> On Mon, Oct 12, 2020 at 7:22 PM Mac Lewis  wrote:
>
>> Hi Howie and Wrenches,
>>
>> We have quite a few OpticsRE sites functioning fine on satellite
>> internet so I don't think that there is any defined limitation there.  I
>> like to use a Hub 10.3 with systems that you intend to have on Optics.
>> Optics not perfect but its better than other off-grid monitoring and gives
>> decent control to the administrator.  Hoping to see something made for
>> mobile devices soon.
>>
>> I find online monitoring to be super useful as a solar integrator and
>> worth the effort to install properly.  Hardwire is preferred way to do
>> this, but I have had good success using a TP Link Wireless Nanorouter in
>> client-mode (serving only the internet device hardwired in).  The nice
>> thing about client mode is that the Mate won't get booted off of the
>> network by other devices connecting to the network through the TP Link.
>>
>> There may be some anomalies with integrating older equipment but I'm not
>> sure on that.
>>
>> Good Luck
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Pika Support by chance?

[John Blittersdorf]

Speaking of PIKA support...are there some installations out there with the
PIKA wind turbine included.  I would like to hear about how well they
worked grid tie or off grid. My only experience is with the off grid
version which is still working fine.  My run with keeping Bergey XL.1’s
flying is getting more difficult due to lack of parts.  All my scrapped
units due to tower crashes are mostly all cannibalized.  Still close to 30
still running. Wind turbines do work well in hot dry winds which seem to be
increasing these days.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service

On Sun, Sep 13, 2020 at 4:28 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar <
offgridso...@sti.net> wrote:

> Ray there really is not much different thermal mass than any other modern
> well maintained home. These homes are 2 x 6 walls, R60 in the ceilings and
> common sense window coverings.
>
>
> Pretty much standard offgrid for those who can afford it. They want to
> succeed in one the hardest climates. The Southeast US and the tropics for
> that matter are tuff. Easier to heat in Alaska I think.
>
>
> The Afternoon high heat is carried  by the mini-split and a southwestern
> array. The morning recool, down from 77f, is the southeast array.
>
>
> Full on, a quality 1 ton is pulling 1400 watts or so when the variable
> speed compressor is at max rpm. The speed/power is controlled by the
> differential of programmed temp to actual.
>
>
> Short of that, on lousy days in cooling season, it is either the large
> battery or a genset.
>
>
> This system cooling strategy also works because I also lived in the
> tropics for a decade. Lot's of happy customers :) They love winter in the
> southeast. The mean season for now in the southeast, just like here in the
> Sierra with 700 feet of smoke visibility [image: Wink]
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar"we go where powerlines 
> don't"http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ 
> <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
>
>
>
> On Sun, 13 Sep 2020 13:25:08 -0600, Ray  wrote:
>
>
>
>
> I was involved in Btu calculations in a previous life. Most HVAC folks
> over kill it, instead of really doing the detailed room by room calcs.
>
>
> My guess is that your systems are working because:
>
>
> A)There is really good insulation and air seal.
>
>
> B) there is enough thermal mass to carry the house through the high heat
> of the late afternoons.
>
>
> Ray Walters
>
> Remote Solar
>
> 303 505-8760
>
>
>
> On 9/12/20 5:09 PM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar wrote:
>
>
>
>
> Hi Ray,
>
>
> They run at night set at 77f. We use a 1 ton, 12,000 btu and a 2nd spare
> for day use. The spare is rarely needed. These are near 30 SEER, the most
> expensive model in each make. LG, Mitsu, Fujitsu.  Just after dawn when the
> array is lit, we drop the program temp to 74 or so.
>
>
> Most HVAC will tell you this won't work. I have been doing this since 2007
> when they started coming out in the US. They sip power at night like a
> small child :) The HVAC people have the mentality that you need to cool a
> hot house down in 30 minutes and that is how they size. Offgrid, we never
> let it get that hot, as we live there and can leave it on. There is no
> power bill except the big one at the beginning!
>
>
> There are a few other strategies I use also.  Right now it is full smoke
> here from the wildfires, the whole 1800 sqft house is using 400 watts and
> it is 74 in and 86 outside. We often have 100 degree weather and it does
> use more. In smoke like this, the split pressurizes the home and aids in
> keeping smoke outside also. That is a very nice thing. Some of the folks in
> the area just got PG  back after the PSPS. Not fun for them! Take a peek
> at my picture link on the webpage below.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar"we go where powerlines 
> don't"http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ 
> <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
>
>
>
>
> On Sat, 12 Sep 2020 15:51:39 -0600, Ray 
>  wrote:
>
>
>
>
> What size Air Conditioners? Those seem like really small battery banks for
> that.  I suppose they just run in the day mostly when the sun is shinning?
>
>
> Ray Walters
>
> Remote Solar
>
> 303 505-8760
>
>
>
> On 9/12/20 3:25 PM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar wrote:
>
>
>
>
> I have 5 clients in Florida running mini-split heat pumps offgrid. The
> smallest is a 13 kwh useable and the rest running L16

Re: [RE-wrenches] Small scale Maximisers/Optimisers.....

[John]

Yes they are for positive displacement pumps – and the question was where can 
you find them – who makes them…??

 

Thanks,  John

 

From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf Of Dave 
Angelini Offgrid Solar
Sent: Monday, 3 August 2020 3:10 am
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Small scale Maximisers/Optimisers.

 

Probably an RV water pump? And an LCB should work. Who makes a good LCB for 
this Jay?

 
Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
"we go where powerlines don't"
http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/
e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net <mailto:offgridso...@sti.net> 
text 209 813 0060

On Sun, 2 Aug 2020 07:34:34 -0700, Jay mailto:jay.pe...@gmail.com> > wrote:

Hi john,

 

I'm not sure which pumps you are talking about. Are these positive 
displacement, and if so then an LCB is what you need.

 

Jay





On Aug 2, 2020, at 6:26 AM, John mailto:j...@gosolar.co.nz> > wrote:

Where can you find some small maximisers/optimisers for a solar-only pump.   
This would be for a surface pump like the Flojet 11, 12 or 17 litre/min pumps.  
They tend to keep the pump operating when a cloud goes over or in low-light 
conditions.I think they are available for the 9325 but its probably 
over-kill for the Flojets.

Cheers for suggestions – John Veix,N.Z.

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[RE-wrenches] Small scale Maximisers/Optimisers.....

[John]

Where can you find some small maximisers/optimisers for a solar-only pump.
This would be for a surface pump like the Flojet 11, 12 or 17 litre/min
pumps.  They tend to keep the pump operating when a cloud goes over or in
low-light conditions.I think they are available for the 9325 but its
probably over-kill for the Flojets.

Cheers for suggestions - John Veix,N.Z.

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Re: [RE-wrenches] Wind Turbine

[John Blittersdorf]

Chris,
 Thanks for the reality check on Kohilo.  I just tried to get info from
them asking for a power curve.  No response.  If a wind turbine
manufacturer can't provide even a rudimentary power curve chart, then it
doesn't work.  I made one for my first homemade wind turbine simply by
watching the anemometer and wattage at different windspeeds for awhile and
writing down the numbers I was seeing and then draw the graph. Wind always
cooperates and gives constantly changing speeds.

John

On Thu, Jul 9, 2020 at 9:35 AM Chris Schaefer 
wrote:

> RUN from the room when it comes to the Kohilo! This ole boy is in my
> backyard and I'm currently trying to clean up one of their projects. They
> kinda went the way of Wind Tamer, whereas they had to add solar to meet
> their output claims.
>
> Christopher
>
> On Wed, Jul 8, 2020 at 9:06 AM  wrote:
>
>> Morning fellow wrenchers. There is a newer Wind turbine company based in
>> the North East called Kohilo Wind. Link below
>>
>>
>>
>> http://kohilowind.com/about-kohilo-wind/
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> thx
>>
>> peter Giroux
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
>> Behalf Of *Roy Butler
>> *Sent:* Wednesday, July 8, 2020 8:33 AM
>> *To:* re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org
>> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Wind Turbine
>>
>>
>>
>> Ron and John and all,
>>
>> SD Wind Energy out of Texas is representing what was the Proven/Kingspan
>> down wind turbines. They have a 3 and 6kW turbine now but I heard through
>> the grapevine that they may have a 1kW in the near future. Price is a bit
>> high but they are solid machines.
>> https://sd-windenergy.com/
>>
>> Other folks have been using the Braun turbine out of Germany but that's
>> really spendy.
>>
>> The Whisper line was good, then Southwest Wind Power bought it, they went
>> under, a company from India bought it, then it went to Japan
>> and last I heard it's now owned by a Chinese company.buyer beware!
>>
>> Although there are a couple of small turbine manufacturer's in the US
>> making 1kW to 2kW machines, I am assuming you want something reliable so
>> you may want to steer clear of those. I won't name names here. And of
>> course there are all those tempting units for sale on Amazon and Ebayrun
>> screaming from the room on those.
>>
>> Slim pickings out there, the small wind industry began a rapid decline
>> back around 2012 when the PV prices started dropping. Most of us wind
>> weanies
>> moved to solar installations to help support our wind habit and decreased
>> wind sales put many turbine manufacturers out of business.
>>
>> Anyway, best of luck on your search and if you find something and care to
>> run it by me off list please do so!
>>
>> Roy Butler
>>
>> Four Winds Renewable Energy, LLC
>>
>> 8902 Route 46, Arkport, NY 14807
>>
>> 607-324-9747  www.four-winds-energy.com
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> Although no trees were killed in the sending of this message,
>>
>> a large number of electrons were terribly inconvenienced.
>>
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On 7/8/2020 6:55 AM, John Blittersdorf wrote:
>>
>> Ron,  I installed a lot of the Bergey XL.1 until they stopped production.
>>   I just replaced blades on one last week and my first install of one of
>> the first ones manufactured in 2001 is still working fine.  We took in down
>> about 10 years ago for preventive maintenance and replaced the brushes and
>> blades though both were still in good shape.  Most problems have been
>> blades, brushes and a few tower failures mostly due to customer neglect or
>> violent storms.  I installed a Pika
>>
>> 1.6 kw at my home about 4 years ago and fell in love with that machine.
>> Pika solved the Blade root attachment weakness found on the Bergey as well
>> as sound issues and performance.  Unfortunately they stopped production due
>> to low sales.  I ran mine for a year and a half and almost eliminated my
>> generator in a low wind speed site but att he same time saw it perform
>> flawlessly in high winds putting out well over 2500 watts and regulating my
>> batteries at float with no dump loads needed.  I got my first order for one
>> and called Pika to order one but they had already stopped production and
>> were not going to make any more.  I had sold a customer a complete upgrade
>> of his system which included upgrading from a Xantrex SW Plus to dual
>> Outback inverters, going from 24v to 48v, and directly replacing his Bergey
&

Re: [RE-wrenches] Wind Turbine

[John Blittersdorf]

Ron,  I installed a lot of the Bergey XL.1 until they stopped production.
I just replaced blades on one last week and my first install of one of the
first ones manufactured in 2001 is still working fine.  We took in down
about 10 years ago for preventive maintenance and replaced the brushes and
blades though both were still in good shape.  Most problems have been
blades, brushes and a few tower failures mostly due to customer neglect or
violent storms.  I installed a Pika
1.6 kw at my home about 4 years ago and fell in love with that machine.
Pika solved the Blade root attachment weakness found on the Bergey as well
as sound issues and performance.  Unfortunately they stopped production due
to low sales.  I ran mine for a year and a half and almost eliminated my
generator in a low wind speed site but att he same time saw it perform
flawlessly in high winds putting out well over 2500 watts and regulating my
batteries at float with no dump loads needed.  I got my first order for one
and called Pika to order one but they had already stopped production and
were not going to make any more.  I had sold a customer a complete upgrade
of his system which included upgrading from a Xantrex SW Plus to dual
Outback inverters, going from 24v to 48v, and directly replacing his Bergey
with a Pika, and new Aquion batteries.  Sine we had already done the rest
of the system, I ended up selling mine to him to keep him happy.  I dearly
miss that machine.  Since Pika sold out to Generac, I’m hanging on a
glimmer of hope that the turbine production could be resurrected.

Otherwise, the only new turbine I have installed is a 1 kw SuperWind, made
in Germany.  It is on a 40’ tilt up guyed tower on a mountaintop
transmitter site.  It has performed as expected with the only problem being
susceptible to icing and the blade hub freezing to the nacelle.  It is all
white so the sun can’t help defrost it.  Very nice workmanship but it also
has a controller and dump load In addition to pitching blades.   Similar
cost as the Pika.I don’t have any data on how much the dump load has
interacted with the controller.  This is a high wind site.  I’m not sure
how it would perform in low winds.  We put it up in November and it
survived the winter.  If you could find a used Pika, that would be my
choice but I haven’t found one yet myself.  Let me know If you find
anything else.

Wind Wrenches out there. ... respond !

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service

john.blittersd...@gmail.com
802-770-8625




On Wed, Jul 8, 2020 at 4:08 AM Ron Young  wrote:

> Looking for recommendations on a wind turbine from the Wrenches. Wondering
> what people are liking out there right now. I know it’s a pretty skinny
> market and lots of junk but my client would like to replace an aging model
> that he has in a low to moderate wind area, not spend too much money but
> spend enough to get reliable. Ideally around 1kW but smaller is ok.
>
> Ron
>
> earthRight Products - Solareagle.com
> Alternative Energy Solutions ~ Renewable Energy Products
> 1-877-925-2929
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] emergency repair down in Baj

[John Blittersdorf]

Dave,
   Yes, they are interchangable and using it will make the inverter an off
grid version.  I have done that to several grid tie versions as I do mostly
off grid work.   Yes, the AC Bd and the FET board and transformer are all
the same..  The GVFX control board is for grid tie and usually does not
allow a generator to feed in as the GVFX version sells to the grid and has
stricter voltage and frequency limits.  Sometimes a generator can feed but
selling has to be disabled and I have had it work only once.  Have tried to
get my honda 2000 to charge again with a gvfx but no luck.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind

On Fri, May 29, 2020 at 3:51 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar <
offgridso...@sti.net> wrote:

> Outback Gurus,
>
> I got this text from a friend. I do not know the years on any of this.
>
> The control board on a gvfx 3648 went out on me and a friend has a spare
> vfx 3648 control board that I can borrow. Does anyone here have actual
> experience with using a vfx control board in a gvfx inverter? A "guy" said
> that the FET and AC boards are the same in the 2 inverters and he thought
> it should work fine. I'm in Baja and there aren't too many options to
> getting the correct part down here in a timely fashion. I'm offgrid and do
> not have a grid option either. My generator is getting some overtime use
> now.
> Thx!  FRIDAY !
>
>
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
> http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Site Groundskeeping

[John Blittersdorf]

Sheep have been used here in Vermont.  Not as destructive as goats.  I have
seen them in a solar farm but haven’t followed up with the owners to see if
there have been any problems.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind & Solar

On Thu, May 14, 2020 at 7:32 AM Lloyd Hoffstatter <
ll...@sunstruckconsulting.com> wrote:

> We used a state approved low grow seed mix in NJ. Some info on seed mixes
> from NREL. https://www.nrel.gov/docs/fy17osti/66218.pdf
>
> Best regards,
> Lloyd Hoffstatter
> Sunstruck Consulting
>
> Get Outlook for iOS <https://aka.ms/o0ukef>
> --
> *From:* RE-wrenches  on behalf
> of Ray 
> *Sent:* Wednesday, May 13, 2020 11:07:18 PM
> *To:* re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org  >
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Site Groundskeeping
>
> Goats are definitely off, I found they ate everything except what you
> wanted them to.  Very cute though.  The low profile "Robo mower" idea
> has merit.
>
> The best I've seen was a wild flower seed mix, that all grew only a
> couple of feet high max.  They probably needed some weed wacking a few
> times a year, but much less than grass.  Totally depends on the
> location.  On the wet side of Maui, you would have the array disappear
> into the jungle in 6 months, never to be seen again.  In the desert, it
> might be sage brush after 10 years.
>
> I worked on a project once that used 4" deep gravel spread over 160
> acres.  Total disaster in my opinion; think how many cubic yards had to
> be trucked in.  Vehicles got stuck in the loose gravel, it slowed
> everyone down, and 3 ft high weeds were growing up out of it in 6
> weeks.  Then when you went to weed wack, you had gravel projectiles sent
> flying into the glass.
>
>
> Ray Walters
> Remote Solar
> 303 505-8760
>
> On 5/13/20 9:28 PM, Jay wrote:
> > Have you thought of sheep?
> >
> > Goats can be tough as they like to eat wire and climb on the panels. But
> if the modules are off the ground high enough might work.
> >
> > Jay
> >
> > Peltz power.
> >
> >
> >> On May 13, 2020, at 6:22 PM, Corey Shalanski 
> wrote:
> >>
> >> 
> >> This is not so much a "wrench" question--more like a "lawnmower"
> question...
> >>
> >> For anyone involved with large-scale ground mount systems, I am curious
> about the various methods being used to control vegetation. My sense has
> been that O service providers generally gravitate toward gas
> mowers/trimmers with spot application of chemical herbicides. Does anyone
> have any experience with alternative methods, such as specialized seeding
> (e.g. pollinator-friendly), groundcover plants, goat herds, maybe even
> robotic GPS-guided mowers? I'm especially interested to hear from anyone
> who has analyzed the pros/cons of different methods or who can speak to any
> approaches that might be site-specific.
> >>
> >> --
> >> Corey Shalanski
> >> Jah Light Solar
> >> Portland, Jamaica
> >> ___
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Optics systems ghost reprogramming

[John Blittersdorf]

Jay,
My guess would be that the profile and site previously set up would
have to be deleted and set up again.  Without your customers info, you
would not be able to delete it yourself.  Outback tech support has access
to all the profiles and sites and would be able to find the site with some
info.  Typically when I have worked with them about an Optics issue, they
ask for profile or site name. Without that, I’m not sure if MAC address
would work for them to locate it.  Maybe the customer’s email address they
might have used.  Possibly address of installation.

I have had tech support move a site from one profile to another when I
swapped out a potentially defective Mate3s only to find out that the Mate3s
was not the problem.  I had set it up for monitoring so I left it there and
took his old one (which was almost new) and put it in another customers
site to get them back on line after a severe lightning strike.  The data of
course was showing up under the first customers profile.  Tech support was
able to move it as a new system under the correct customers file.  Optics
still shows the old site as off line with all data intact.

John Blittersdorf

On Wed, Mar 18, 2020 at 10:34 PM Jay  wrote:

> Hi john,
>
> To Chris’s question. What if (all to common) the customer doesn’t have any
> of that data?  How do you reset it?
>
> Jay
>
> On Mar 18, 2020, at 9:01 AM, John Blittersdorf <
> john.blittersd...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> 
>
>
> Chris,
> If the customer has the username and password, they can log in and add
> your email address as a new user.   I find that on all the profiles I’m
> monitoring, there are inconsistencies in finding the screen to add
> authorized users.  It may be because some profiles were initiated by me
> (preferred method) and I added the customer with full control or limited
> control or the others were initiated by the customer with me added with
> full control and as administrator or not.  Tech support should be able to
> fix it if you are prepared to do other desk work while waiting for a half
> hour or more in the Queue.
>
> John Blittersdorf
>
> On Tue, Mar 17, 2020 at 6:41 PM Chris Schaefer 
> wrote:
>
>> To all,
>>
>> Lately it seems that I'm taking over more and more off grid projects that
>> have become orphaned by the many possers in our off grid world. Believe me
>> when I say I'm happy to do it. In regards to Optics I've created my own
>> account so that I can view all my clients. The problem I'm running into is
>> that when I try to create a new profile by entering the clients Mate3 MAC
>> address I find that the address is already registered. The clients don't
>> know anything and the installers have disappeared. In some cases the
>> clients do have a login and password. So my question to you is what is the
>> work around here? Is there a way to locally clear the info at the Mate3 or
>> is this something that has to be done at OB HQ? If so, what kind of
>> documentation would be required from the client to provide to OB to allow
>> someone else to "take over" administrative rights of the system? I did
>> reach out to OB on the issue but have received no response as of yet. I
>> will say, when it works it is awesome.
>>
>> Christopher
>>
>> On Tue, Mar 17, 2020 at 9:50 AM Tump  wrote:
>>
>>> Please be aware that the files that are stored in the Mates are not able
>>> to be overwritten, and this leads to corrupted data among other mystery
>>> issues. Contact Kris Stone, a former OB employee, he has the ability to
>>> erase the old files. I no longer travel w/o updated M3s and the firmware to
>>> up date. IF I have an issue, I will copy settings in the older Mate and
>>> leave my new one in place until I get it addressed by Kris.
>>> FYI OB just closed down 1 their offices and moved (those who still had
>>> jobs) to I believe Bellingham. Lonus?
>>> Kris Stone, 425-233-0731 stkri...@yahoo.com
>>>
>>> On Mar 16, 2020, at 6:37 PM, Dan Fink  wrote:
>>>
>>> William, Michael; I have never seen spontaneous reprogramming of the
>>> AGS, but it sure does give me something to watch out for on the Optics
>>> systems I've installed, thanks for that!
>>>
>>> What I did see (last month) was an Optics system (no AGS) shut down the
>>> web gateway, saying the firmware in the charge controllers (old MX60s) and
>>> the Flexnet DC need to be updated, but all are too old, the firmware can't
>>> be updated as far as I know. It also lost the Port #s for the 2 MX60s and
>>> FlexNet DC and needs them re-entered.
>>>
>>> Oddly, the battery SOC is the only data showin

Re: [RE-wrenches] Optics systems ghost reprogramming

[John Blittersdorf]

Chris,
If the customer has the username and password, they can log in and add
your email address as a new user.   I find that on all the profiles I’m
monitoring, there are inconsistencies in finding the screen to add
authorized users.  It may be because some profiles were initiated by me
(preferred method) and I added the customer with full control or limited
control or the others were initiated by the customer with me added with
full control and as administrator or not.  Tech support should be able to
fix it if you are prepared to do other desk work while waiting for a half
hour or more in the Queue.

John Blittersdorf

On Tue, Mar 17, 2020 at 6:41 PM Chris Schaefer 
wrote:

> To all,
>
> Lately it seems that I'm taking over more and more off grid projects that
> have become orphaned by the many possers in our off grid world. Believe me
> when I say I'm happy to do it. In regards to Optics I've created my own
> account so that I can view all my clients. The problem I'm running into is
> that when I try to create a new profile by entering the clients Mate3 MAC
> address I find that the address is already registered. The clients don't
> know anything and the installers have disappeared. In some cases the
> clients do have a login and password. So my question to you is what is the
> work around here? Is there a way to locally clear the info at the Mate3 or
> is this something that has to be done at OB HQ? If so, what kind of
> documentation would be required from the client to provide to OB to allow
> someone else to "take over" administrative rights of the system? I did
> reach out to OB on the issue but have received no response as of yet. I
> will say, when it works it is awesome.
>
> Christopher
>
> On Tue, Mar 17, 2020 at 9:50 AM Tump  wrote:
>
>> Please be aware that the files that are stored in the Mates are not able
>> to be overwritten, and this leads to corrupted data among other mystery
>> issues. Contact Kris Stone, a former OB employee, he has the ability to
>> erase the old files. I no longer travel w/o updated M3s and the firmware to
>> up date. IF I have an issue, I will copy settings in the older Mate and
>> leave my new one in place until I get it addressed by Kris.
>> FYI OB just closed down 1 their offices and moved (those who still had
>> jobs) to I believe Bellingham. Lonus?
>> Kris Stone, 425-233-0731 stkri...@yahoo.com
>>
>> On Mar 16, 2020, at 6:37 PM, Dan Fink  wrote:
>>
>> William, Michael; I have never seen spontaneous reprogramming of the AGS,
>> but it sure does give me something to watch out for on the Optics systems
>> I've installed, thanks for that!
>>
>> What I did see (last month) was an Optics system (no AGS) shut down the
>> web gateway, saying the firmware in the charge controllers (old MX60s) and
>> the Flexnet DC need to be updated, but all are too old, the firmware can't
>> be updated as far as I know. It also lost the Port #s for the 2 MX60s and
>> FlexNet DC and needs them re-entered.
>>
>> Oddly, the battery SOC is the only data showing in the Optics Portal, but
>> it's saying 67% SOC, which (I hope!) is incorrect, as the site has had full
>> sun, hardly a cloud in the sky, for over 3 days now, and the system is
>> designed to charge from 50% SOC to full on one sunny day.
>>
>> The Mate 3S firmware isn't flagged for an update, but there is a newer
>> version out. I plan to update the Mate 3S, re-enter the Port assignments
>> and hope that fixes the problem. Because the system is 200 miles away and I
>> have no way now of knowing if it's even charging right now.
>>
>> Will be watching this thread closely!.
>>
>> Dan Fink
>> Executive Director, Buckville Energy Consulting
>> NABCEP PV Associate
>> NABCEP Certified PV System Inspector
>> IREC Certified Instructor™ for:
>> ~ PV Installation Professional
>> ~ Small Wind Installer
>> NABCEP Registered Continuing Education Providers
>> d anbo...@gmail.com
>> 970-672-4342
>>
>>
>>
>>
>> On Mon, Mar 16, 2020 at 1:48 PM William Miller 
>> wrote:
>>
>>> Colleagues:
>>>
>>>
>>> Over time we have seen our Outback Optics systems reprogramming
>>> themselves.  The latest manifestation is seeing the AGS change from Auto to
>>> Off.  I would suggest if you have Optics systems you might log in and check
>>> this.  Damage can be done to batteries and your credibility if a generator
>>> auto-start is expected and does not occur.
>>>
>>>
>>> I would be interested in hearing if any of you have experienced any
>>> “ghost” reprogramming of any Outback sy

Re: [RE-wrenches] Surrette/Rolls contact info?

[John]

Hi Michael, O.K. - I give up.   I've tried three different passwords to
log in, and none of them work.   I did keep track of them starting in 2004,
but the current one escapes me.

Because I would like to change my bio, can I please have a new one - and all
the old ones will be done away with.

Sorry, but thanks - John Veix


++

-Original Message-
From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf Of
Michael Welch
Sent: Friday, 13 March 2020 5:01 pm
To: RE-wrenches 
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Surrette/Rolls contact info?

Hi gang. This is a good time to remind Wrenches that each of you has a
biography page, as do the manufacturer reps on the list. So asking the list
is not needed, and considered off-topic.

The link to the bios is at the bottom of every Wrench List message,
including this one.

This also would be a good time to remind Wrenches to check their own bios to
make sure they are current.

Someone wrote at 12:46 PM 3/12/2020:
 
>I'm looking for contact info for Steve Higgins of Surrette / Rolls Battery.
> 
>Thank you,

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Re: [RE-wrenches] VFX produces no output with no error

[John Blittersdorf]

Hugh,
   I have one at my guest cabin doing the same thing except that the meter
on the mate says I have 119 vac but nothing at the AC Out terminal.  I
think Kent might be right that it may be the AC output relay.  It is odd
though that there is no error message in your case.  This inverter had been
tortured by the last tenants of the cabin with bad generators.  I was
actually going to go up there and check it out some more as it is warm
today. No heat in the cabin.

John Blittersdorf

On Mon, Mar 9, 2020 at 1:00 PM Kent Osterberg  wrote:

> Hugh,
>
> I've seen these symptoms before. The problem was a failed output relay on
> the ac board.
>
> Kent Osterberg
> Blue Mountain Solar
>
>
> On 3/9/2020 9:25 AM, Hugh Piggott wrote:
>
> Hi Wrenches,
>
> I wonder if anyone can tell me what is happening here?
>
> I have an Outback VFX that I used for my own home from 2006-2018.  It’s a
> 50Hz 240V unit, but similar otherwise to any other 48V VFX.  It was working
> well when disconnected.  I needed to replace the inverter system for other
> reasons.
>
> I installed this for a neighbour recently on his 48V system, and it
> apparently worked when I left the building.
>
> Now it’s not working.  When “off” it shows a warning for temperatures
> sensor - fair enough I did not install one.  Maybe when it gets connected
> to a generator it will be found a sensor.  This is the only error or fault
> with a yes.
>
> When “on” it makes a reassuring buzz and both lights come up green and
> there is no error or warning in the Mate.  Just one problem - no output.
>
> Another weird thing.  I go to the status menu and check meters
>  STATUS/FX/METER output voltage and it says “4V”.  So it *knows* that it
> is not working but it appears to have no qualms or misgivings about this
> state of affairs.  NO error, no warning, two green lights.
>
> I tried rebooting with the battery fuse.  I tried resetting to factory
> defaults.  No joy.
>
> I suppose I will take it to pieces and try to figure out a hardware
> failure but I wonder if anyone has seen this and can give me a clue?
>
> cheers
> Hugh
>
>
> Hugh Piggott
> Scoraig Wind Electric
> Dundonnell
> Ross shire
> IV23 2RE,  UK
> +44 77 1315 7600
> h...@scoraigwind.co.uk
> www.scoraigwind.co.uk
>
>
>
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback VFX upgrade question

[John Blittersdorf]

Todd,
  So is it that the control board and FET board are voltage specific,
control board also grid tie or off grid specific, AC board common to all
and Transformer common to all?  I was unsure about the transformer as I
have found most that I see with some indication of voltage written on the
transformer.  Probably notes to the reassembler?  It makes sense that all
120vac inverters would have the same transformer.  This is a good thread to
clear up how simple it is to mix And match at your pleasure to make what
you need from the retired FX Series inverters.  I’ve been buying new boards
Fron Zonna. Are there other sources?


On Mon, Mar 9, 2020 at 11:28 AM  wrote:

> I wrote to Allan off list, but will mention my suggestion here for others
> too. Outback still makes and sells the 3 circuit boards for the FX series
> of inverters (i just bought a spare set for our GVFX3648 for ~$800.00).
>
> Changing 2 of the 3 cards would make this into a 48 volt inverter. The
> same mate would work with this and as well as the mounts and wiring. only
> the batteries would need changing to 48 volts. The cost would be around
> $500.00.
>
>
>
> Todd
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Monday, March 9, 2020 4:23am, "John Blittersdorf" <
> john.blittersd...@gmail.com> said:
>
> Alan,
>   It appears to me that everyone miss read your question.  If your
> customer does not need a generator, then his solar charge controller needs
> to be able to be set up for the lithium battery voltage settings.  So the
> inverter simply needs to be 48 volts and has nothing to do with charging
> battery.  You could use any 48 volt inverter and use the MATE. The inverter
> would only provide LBCO to protect the battery.  As far as a used VFX 3648
> contact me off list.
> John Blittersdorf
>
> On Sat, Mar 7, 2020 at 8:20 PM Sindelar Solar 
> wrote:
>
>> Wrenches,
>>
>> I have a client who is looking at upgrading an older off grid system that
>> has an Outback VFX3524 inverter to 48Vnom in order to use a Blue Ion
>> LiFePo battery. I installed the VFX about ten years ago and it has worked
>> without any issues. The client has never had a generator and has enough
>> array to equalize his FLA batteries with array only, so has never had or
>> needed a Mate. If I upgrade to 48V with a new inverter, it will most likely
>> be an FXR3048. First question: Can I use an original Mate (rather than a
>> Mate3) to set up basic programming with a R series inverter, such as
>> charger and LBCO settings? Second: anyone have an older FX3048 or VFX3648
>> for sale, if the answer to the first question is no?
>>
>> Thank you,
>>
>> Allan
>> --
>>
>> *Allan Sindelar*
>> al...@sindelarsolar.com
>> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
>> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
>> Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
>> *505 780-2738 cell*
>>
>>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback VFX upgrade question

[John Blittersdorf]

Alan,
  It appears to me that everyone miss read your question.  If your customer
does not need a generator, then his solar charge controller needs to be
able to be set up for the lithium battery voltage settings.  So the
inverter simply needs to be 48 volts and has nothing to do with charging
battery.  You could use any 48 volt inverter and use the MATE. The inverter
would only provide LBCO to protect the battery.  As far as a used VFX 3648
contact me off list.

John Blittersdorf


On Sat, Mar 7, 2020 at 8:20 PM Sindelar Solar 
wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> I have a client who is looking at upgrading an older off grid system that
> has an Outback VFX3524 inverter to 48Vnom in order to use a Blue Ion
> LiFePo battery. I installed the VFX about ten years ago and it has worked
> without any issues. The client has never had a generator and has enough
> array to equalize his FLA batteries with array only, so has never had or
> needed a Mate. If I upgrade to 48V with a new inverter, it will most likely
> be an FXR3048. First question: Can I use an original Mate (rather than a
> Mate3) to set up basic programming with a R series inverter, such as
> charger and LBCO settings? Second: anyone have an older FX3048 or VFX3648
> for sale, if the answer to the first question is no?
>
> Thank you,
>
> Allan
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@sindelarsolar.com
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
> *505 780-2738 cell*
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] combining 24v and 12v systems

[John Blittersdorf]

Chris,
I have a 12vdc sunfrost fridge and a few 12v receptacles left over from
the 12v days and I did the same as your customer with 2L16’s and a few
panels and backed it up with an Iota charger plugged into an AC outlet
powered by my 48v Outback inverter.  Then I discontinued the dedicated Pv
panels when remodeling the house and eventually got rid of the batteries.
Just the Iota to the DC circuit works great!

Happy New Year
John Blittersdorf



On Tue, Dec 31, 2019 at 11:52 AM Chris Schaefer 
wrote:

> G'day and Happy New Year to All,
>
> Recently came across this offgrid OB FX system. The first part is a 12v
> battery system w/ 2 PV modules, 2 Trojan L16  batteries used to power a
> frig and freezer about 6 years old. The second is a 24v with 3kw of PV, 4
> Trojan L16's, twin OB FX inverters installed by an HVAC contractor back in
> 2016. This was their first offgrid project. Oh boy, lol. The client would
> like to add more battery capacity to both. My thought here is since we are
> powering only a 12v frig and freezer why not simplify the system by
> creating a single battery bank and then tapping off of the 24v bank using
> proper fusing and creating a 12v buss? Admittedly I live in a 48v world so
> I'm asking our esteemed colleges as to options on how to address this.
>
> Oh yeah, the installer is unresponsive (no surprise there) and they are
> also having firmware issues with an old Mate 3 and would like me to install
> a new Mate 3s but that's another issue I'll tackle when I head out to site.
>
> Thanks All,
> Christopher-
>
> Chris Schaefer’s
> 
>
> *Tel/Fax 585-229-2083 or Cell 585-748-1870 *
> *5115 South Hill Road
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/5115%0D%0ASouth+Hill+Road?entry=gmail=g>
> ~ Canandaigua New York 14424**www.solarandwindfx.com
> <http://www.solarandwindfx.com> ~ E-mail: ch...@solarandwindfx.com
> *
>
>
> Thomas Jefferson, the author of our great Constitution, once said,
> "democracy" will cease to exist when you take away from those who are
> willing to work and give to those who would not."
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[RE-wrenches] Skystream wind turbine inop.

[John Blittersdorf]

I just got a call from a Skystream owner in which he said that it just
stopped putting out power.  I haven’t worked on one the yet. Any ideas what
the failure modes are. He said ac power is getting to the turbine.  Any
suggestions on how to troubleshoot.  I am assuming that the problem is up
on the tower.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service
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Re: [RE-wrenches] trickle charger for 4 12V batteries

[John Blittersdorf]

The least expensive way and easiest way (not having to reconnect string)
would be 4 inexpensive battery maintainers.  Unless they
Already have something like an Iota 48volt battery charger.

John Blittersdorf

On Mon, Oct 14, 2019 at 3:02 PM Dave Tedeyan  wrote:

> Hi All,
>
> If someone were to bring their set of 4 sealed LA batteries from an off
> grid cabin into their house for the winter, I am recommending that they get
> a trickle charger to keep them topped off for the ~6 months that they will
> not be in use.
>
> Does anyone have recommendations for a product? And is it best to get 4
> separate 12V chargers, one 48V charger, or a single 12V charger and put
> them all in parallel? Or am I just overthinking this?
>
> Cheers,
> Dave
>
> *Dave Tedeyan, PE*
> Senior Engineer | Taitem Engineering, PC
>
> 110 South Albany Street
> <https://www.google.com/maps/search/110+South+Albany+Street+%C2%A0%7C+Ithaca,+NY+14850?entry=gmail=g>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] 24 volt LiFePO4 Battery options

[John Blittersdorf]

Howie and Allen,
 I used 5 Simpliphi 24v to replace 24 L16 wet cells.  He wanted to keep
his old Bergey 850 which I had rebuilt for him a few years ago.  He has two
VFX3524’s in a Flexware 500 but we are running just one to keep idle loads
down.  We did have one incident where the batteries would not charge when
the temp dropped into the mid 30’s in his unheated but well insulated power
room.

John Blittersdorf

On Thu, Sep 26, 2019 at 9:23 PM Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar <
offgridso...@sti.net> wrote:

> Allen, Discover AES is all I use for Schneider CSW 4024. Direct comms into
> xanbus.
>
> *Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar
> "we go where powerlines don't"
> http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/ <http://members.sti.net/offgridsolar/>
> e-mail  offgridso...@sti.net 
> text 209 813 0060*
>
> On Thu, 26 Sep 2019 18:32:28 -0600, Allan Sindelar <
> al...@sindelarsolar.com> wrote:
>
>
> Howie, I'm fully in your court. Just today I replaced 2000 pounds of 18
> year old HUPs with 1800 pounds of... HUPs. It's a full rebuild of a 24v
> system from the mid-80s, and the scales on a system that vintage couldn't
> justify a 48v system.
> I have asked Blue Planet more than once if they plan to one day develop a
> 24v Blue Zion package, and the answer has each time been no. So I'd like to
> hear if there's a 24V option of equal quality and BMS sophistication.
> Thanks!
> Allan Sindelar
> On Sep 26, 2019, at 3:17 PM, Howie Michaelson 
> wrote:
>
> I get what you are saying Jerry, but this client ( a retiring teacher in a
> very rural, low wage school district, sadly) has lived very lightly
> off-grid (1kW solar, 24v Rolls KS21s original batteries) for 18 years years
> and has no pressing need to upgrade his VFX3524 inverter. I'd rather find a
> good 24volt option to compare a straight KS21 replacement to.  I know the
> inverter could crap out at any time, but if it ain't broke...
> Howie
>
> On Thu, Sep 26, 2019 at 5:03 PM Jerry Shafer 
> wrote:
>
>> Dollars and sence, drop the 24 volt, BPI is a great battery. Once l show
>> my customers all the benefits of a 48 volt upgrade it wins every time. I am
>> not talking about busses, RV's and one night stands l am talking about off
>> grid homes.
>>
>> On Thu, Sep 26, 2019, 1:53 PM Howie Michaelson <
>> howie.michael...@gmail.com> wrote:
>>
>>> Hi all,
>>> I've been using BlueIon batteries recently both on- and off-grid, and
>>> really like them so far, although I have limited time on them so not a ton
>>> of experience yet.  I am wondering what folks are liking for 24 v LiFePO4
>>> battery options.  I have 24 volt off-grid clients who are not ready to swap
>>> out to 48v, but might be interested in Lithium batteries. TIA,
>>> Howie
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Re: [RE-wrenches] replacement Solarworld Sunmodule SW plus 250 poly clear frame

[John Blittersdorf]

Jibril,
I have a solarworld 250 poly clear frame that has been used only as a
display panel at shows and events.  Contact me off list or give me a call.
  Can send a photo of it to make sure it looks like the ones you have.

John Blittersdorf
200 West Road
N Chittenden, VT 05763

john.blittersd...@gmail.com
802-770-8625 voice and text

On Fri, Sep 13, 2019 at 7:39 PM James "Jibril" Gustafson <
djibrilf...@gmail.com> wrote:

> Sadly, today my crew managed to shatter the glass on a Solarworld module
> that we had removed from a hail damaged, then re-roofed, roof.  The client
> is really ready to have system running again, and a 30 minute Google search
> found no available replacements.  Does any one know where I might lay my
> hands on one of these?
>
> Thanks,
> Jibril
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[RE-wrenches] LiFePO Failure modes.

[John Blittersdorf]

Has anyone had any problems with any of the popular Lithium Ferro Phosphate
batteries other than getting the voltage settings right.
Just now cleaning up the mess of 3 customers finding their Aquion batteries
failing and having to replace them.  I have installed two systems with
 Simpliphi and one with Fortress two more Fortress 10.2  pending.  Are
their any failure modes reported.  Have any of you installed any LiFePO
batteries with any performance or quality issues, shipping damage or
anything else that I should be aware of before installing many more.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service
200 West Road
N Chittenden, VT 05763

john.blittersd...@gmail.com
802-770-8625

>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Old Outback Mate question

[John Blittersdorf]

Allan,
  Contact me off list.  I have many good MATE’s needing a home.  I have
sold many customers on the OpticsRE so I have a lot of orphaned Mates still
in good condition.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service
200 West Road
N Chittenden, VT 05763

802-770-8625
john.blittersd...@gmail.com

On Thu, Sep 5, 2019 at 11:01 PM Sindelar Solar 
wrote:

> Wrenches,
>
> I have a customer with a 2005-era Outback VFX3648-based off grid
> residential system. Her original Mate had lost response on several of the
> six buttons. I told her that the Mate is no longer made, and a Mate3 is
> larger (won't fit her space), expensive and overkill for her needs. I
> offered to attempt to repair hers, as it seemed to me that it would be a
> simple task. I removed the cover and the silicon button molding, and used a
> Q-tip with a bit of electronic cleaner and lubricant from Radio Shack to
> clean the contacts. When I put it back together none of the buttons made
> active contact.
>
> - Any idea what I might have done wrong to cause further failure? I'm
> wondering if the cleaner included an oil that hindered conductivity, rather
> than enabled it, and whether trying again with denatured alcohol (or
> something more potent still?) might resolve the problem.
>
> - Any suggestions about how to correct the (fairly common) problem of the
> buttons not making contact after years of service?
>
> - Anyone repairing older Mates that you might pass on?
>
> - Any way to buy a new or refurbished Mate?
>
> Thank you for any help here.,
>
> Allan
> --
>
> *Allan Sindelar*
> al...@sindelarsolar.com
> NABCEP Certified PV Installation Professional
> New Mexico EE98J Journeyman Electrician
> Founder (Retired), Positive Energy, Inc.
> *505 780-2738 cell*
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Operating Voltages Outback RE High Capacity Battery

[John Blittersdorf]

Mac,
   If there is a TriMetric or charge controllers, you can get min/max
voltages each day or since last reset.   I have found that is very useful
info when large, short duration loads hit.  ie well pump.  I would find on
one of my 24 v systems that an 18 or 19 v min would indicate that the well
pump went on when the batteries were quite low and pulled the voltage down
to low battery cutoff.  If the system does not shut down, you might see a
voltage lower than the 2 minute setpoint.  I think the FlexNet DC also
records minimum voltage.  And be sure that the gen start trigger is not the
flexnet as that is big trouble.

John Blittersdorf.

On Fri, Apr 19, 2019 at 8:06 PM Glenn Burt  wrote:

> Hi Larry,
>
>
>
> I am curious why you would use the 100Hr rate for this approximation and
> not the 20 or 24Hr one, since that is the period in which Mac is reporting
> the anomaly. Happy to learn the details!
>
>
>
> Thanks,
>
> Glenn
>
>
>
> *From:* RE-wrenches  *On
> Behalf Of *Starlight Solar Power Systems
> *Sent:* Friday, April 19, 2019 3:10 PM
> *To:* RE-wrenches 
> *Subject:* Re: [RE-wrenches] Operating Voltages Outback RE High Capacity
> Battery
>
>
>
> Mac,
>
>
>
> Only removing 6kWh from 46kWh of storage should not be able to produce the
> voltage sag to trigger AGS. That’s only about 13% at a 100Hr rate. Voltage
> should be no where near that point. Have you verified actual voltage when
> the AGS is triggered? Loose wiring or terminal corrosion can cause voltage
> drop but I would think that an easy find/repair you would have checked.
>
>
>
> Saying the battery easily charges to 100% worries me as sulfated batteries
> do that. Healthy LA batteries take many hours to reach full saturation. Has
> cell voltage been compared for non-uniformity? Has the equalization charge
> been performed?
>
>
>
> I am not a fan of the unusual low voltages that Outback prescribes for
> EnergyCells and seriously wonder how these voltages can properly maintain
> these cells. CV is below the point where balanced O2 and H2 evolution takes
> place. But, thats off point.
>
>
>
>
> Larry Crutcher
> Starlight Solar Power Systems
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Apr 19, 2019, at 10:27 AM, Mac Lewis  wrote:
>
>
>
> Hello Wrenches,
>
>
>
> We recently inherited an Outback system that I've been keeping an eye on
> via Optics.  Its a dual stack 3648 VFXR, with about 4kW of PV with a single
> string of EnergyCell 1100RE battery bank (reported to be ~6 months old)
> ~.46 kWh at C20.
>
>
>
> I have been observing how the system functions and how the voltage
> behaves.  We keep getting 2 minute voltage starts on the generator in the
> middle of the night that don't seem necessary judging from how much energy
> has been used from the battery bank.  I am hesitant to tweak anything
> because these battery set-points are a bit different than I'm used to.
>
>
>
> As per Outback:
>
> Absorb Voltage is 55.6V for 2 hours
>
> Float Voltage is 54.0V
>
>
>
> I've slowly been dropping the 2 minute start voltage to see if there is a
> bottom, but I'm hesitant to take it much lower (maybe I should).
>
> 2 minute start voltage: 44.8 V.
>
>
>
>
>
> The system easily charges the battery bank to 100% (and easily reached the
> 2 hr absorb time) every day.  The flexnet DC is correctly set up and
> calibrated.
>
>
>
> The load on the system is pretty consistent.  They use between 400 and
> 600W throughout the night.
>
>
>
> An average night, they may use about 6 kWh before the voltage sags below
> the 2 minute start voltage and it starts the generator.
>
>
>
> Just curious if our 2 minute voltage needs to be dropped or if these
> batteries are degraded.  What corrective changes can I make to get better
> performance?
>
>
>
> I have and will call Outback about this, but I'd like other perspectives
> as well.
>
>
>
> Thanks as always for your expertise
>
>
>
> --
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> Mac Lewis
>
>
> "Yo solo sé que no sé nada." *-Sócrates*
>
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> Li

Re: [RE-wrenches] LG CHEM

[John Blittersdorf]

Marco,
   I have only installed one LG Chem 10H with the StorEdge inverter for
backup power in a vacation home and it has performed wellmany times over
the last two years
in power outages.  Much easier installation than than dealing with Tesla
Powerwall.

John Blittersdorf

On Fri, Apr 12, 2019 at 6:40 PM Marco Mangelsdorf 
wrote:

> Aloha all,
>
> I would be very interested in hearing feedback on the LG Chem RESU10H
> battery.
>
> As far as I know, it's only been compatible with either the SolarEdge
> StorEdge or SMA Sunny Storage inverters.
>
> Mahalo,
> marco
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Sol-Ark Inverter?

[John Blittersdorf]

Ray,
   I just quoted an off-grid project using the Sol-Ark.  I use Alt-E for a
supplier and they suggest the Midnite solar Mini-DC disconnect for the
battery.  They
have heard good things about it and I am going against my previous
requirement using one first or at least seeing one in action before making
my customer the guinea pig.
I will know in a few weeks how it works out.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service
200 West Road
N. Chittenden, VT
802-770-8625
(new web site under construction.  - offgridvermont,com

SolarFest 2019 July-21 (one day event)  www.solarfest.org
SolarFest 2020 (25th year) big celebration Mid July at Magic Mountain,
Londonderry, VT

On Fri, Apr 12, 2019 at 12:39 PM Ray  wrote:

> I just had a customer get a quote for a Sol-Ark inverter from an online
> sales outfit.  Does anyone have any experience with them, ever seen one,
> installed them, etc?  From the limited info I can see, they do not
> appear to have a UL listed battery disconnect system; I'm seeing flying
> battery cables in the few actual install pics.  They also claim to be
> "EMP hardened".
>
> --
> Ray Walters
> Remote Solar
> 303 505-8760
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Xantrex XW6048 (quad) blowing past setpoints

[John Blittersdorf]

Jason.
I had that problem with an older XW and problem was corrupted firmware.  It
took many years to get Schneider to admit that the problem was not my
installation or programming.
New firmware fixed a nagging problem of runaway voltage and destroyed
batteries. I also had found that resetting to factory defaults was causing
some of the problem as the default for absorb was 6 hours instead of the
one hour I or less that it should have been.  Found that problem by
resetting to factory defaults and then checking every setting. With the bad
firmware I was seeing the charge rate and voltage setpoints totally ignored
and saw battery go up to 67 volts!

John Blittersdorf


On Mon, Mar 25, 2019 at 4:35 PM Jason Szumlanski <
ja...@floridasolardesigngroup.com> wrote:

> I have four inverter/chargers (master and 3 slaves) that are blowing past
> their 57.6V setpoint that I programmed and confirmed via the Context
> Combox. They are hitting 58.4V and tripping the battery management units on
> a set of Lithium Batts. Any ideas why this would happen? I can disable
> chargers on individual units, so I know the settings are getting uploaded
> via the Combox.
>
> Jason Szumlanski
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[RE-wrenches] VFX Board compatibility

[John Blittersdorf]

Hi Group,
 I have quite a collection of VFX and GVFX inverters with board
problems.  I am trying to get a few working by cannibalizing others.  To my
knowledge some boards are DC Voltage specific (ie FET Board),  Ac Board is
common on all FX series,  control board is voltage and grid vs off-grid
specific.  I have a control board that has a double pin selector for 12,24,
or 48V.  Does anyone know if my recollections above are correct  and if the
control board with the pin can be changed to the specific voltages just by
moving the pin?

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Outback Boards

[John Blittersdorf]

I have often replaced single boards. Usually the control board but sometimes 
the AC board or both.  If I remember right, the AC board is common on all, the 
control board is different by DC voltage and whether grid tie or off grid and 
the FET board is DC voltage specific. Not including European and mobile units.  
This is why I have stayed with Outback.  Field repairable.  About an hour to 
take it off the wall, open it up, switch boards, close it up and reattach to 
the FlexWare or e-panel.  I’ve done dozens over the years. 

John Blittersdorf



Sent from my iPhone

> On Feb 6, 2019, at 10:55 AM, Lones Tuss  wrote:
> 
> Hello Drake
> Yes replacing a single board in an FX is possible. In the case of a lightning 
> strike it may be advisable to replace all three boards as damage may not be 
> visible.
> Take Care Sir
>  
> From: RE-wrenches  On Behalf Of 
> drake.chamber...@redwoodalliance.org
> Sent: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 2:52 PM
> To: RE-wrenches 
> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Outback Boards
>  
> ** [EXTERNAL EMAIL] - Please report any suspicious attachments, links, or 
> requests for sensitive information to the Help Desk. **
> Hello Wrenches,
>  
> It is my understanding that old Outback VFX inverters can not have only one 
> board replaced, but need to have three changed.
>  
> We have an inverter that is from around 2005 (serial number VFX 008968). Can 
> one board be replaced on this unit?
>  
> Thanks,
>  
> Drake
>  
> 
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[RE-wrenches] Aquion Batteries

[John Blittersdorf]

Awhile back, it was mentioned that missmatched cell voltages could be
corrected with a 6 volt charger attached to each low layer.  I tried this
on one and it worked.  I have several stacks that have mostly even voltages
with one cell over charged.  Often 8 to 25 volts.  Some showed the high
voltage layer when under charge but looked normal when static.  Others had
the high voltage even when static.  Are these layers just totally defective
or could the voltage be bled off somehow down to the average.  Has anyone
tried this.  I have three  customers with Aquions that are working well and
staying balanced.  This customer has 24 batteries and 13 show this problem.
Capacity of the bank is very poor.  Customer is ready to call lawyer!  Any
ideas?
Tump, yes these include the batteries from Maine but also half of his
original 12 are showing the same problem.

John Blittersdorf.
CV Wind Service (and Solar)
200 West Road
N Chittenden, VT 05763
802-770-8625


PS Also any feedback on the Simpliphi batteries would be appreciated.  I
have just two systems using these so far.   Both small.  2  48 v and 5  24v.
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Lg chem

[John Blittersdorf]

Kirk,
   I installed one last year when I was still working for Rob Stubbins
Electrical .  I think they got it at CED Greentech.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind Service .

On Fri, Dec 14, 2018 at 10:45 AM Kirk Herander  wrote:

>
> Does anyone know when LG chem batteries for Storedge inverters are going
> to be available? I’ve heard nothing new for months thanks.
>
> Kirk Herander
>
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Some one reached out to me off list, I accidently deleated

[John Blittersdorf]

Daryl
It must be catching.  I just accidentally deleted the one who has 20 EC-120’s 
to repurpose.  Could that person in MA resend.  I am interested.   
john.blittersd...@gmail.com

Sent from my iPhone

> On Dec 7, 2018, at 6:42 PM, Darryl Thayer  wrote:
> 
> regarding a 480 Volt install using a Square D 3-phase panel board.  
> sorry I deleted it. please try again.  
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[RE-wrenches] Trace SW4024 not selling.

[John Blittersdorf]

I have a past off-grid customer who has now connected to the grid and I
installed a transfer switch to allow him to run off-grid or grid tied.  We
have ACIN 1 good and line tie light lit up..  It just refuses to sell.  Are
there any other settings that would impact selling beyond the max sell amps
and sell voltage?

John Blittersdorf.
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[RE-wrenches] Generac Eco-Gen 6 kw

[John Blittersdorf]

Hello Wrenches,
   I have a customer with a Generac EcoGen 6kw that starts and runs for
about 30 seconds and then shuts down with high engine temp error. The
engine is stone cold so it must be a temp sensor failure.  Disconnecting
the sensor or jumpering the two leads together makes no difference. Has
anyone seen this issue?  The engine runs real smooth until it shuts down.

John Blittersdorf
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Re: [RE-wrenches] Aquion Testing

[John Blittersdorf]

Lou, I recently discovered that each layer can be checked for voltage.  I
had one battery test lower than the rest.  Looking at the battery closer, I
found that my meter probe could get the voltage of each layer indivually.
Through an opening in the case. The top layer had the reduced voltage
output and it was one cell of the 4 cells in each layer.  I have 4
customers with Aquions and we are seeing lower storage because the days are
Shorter now and fewer sunny days here in the Northeast. These batteries
really like long slow charges. I have one  customer with 8000 watts of Pv
and a 12kw generator and he can’t figure out why his generator has to run
so long.  It is the nature of the batteries and our darkest month.  His
system is undersized with 12 battery stacks and he is driving to Maine
tomorrow to buy 20 more from another unhappy Aquion user who is going back
to lead acid.  I am hoping doubling his storage will solve another problem
of voltage dropping to 36 volts when his 1.75hp well pump runs when no sun
or generator.  Over sizing the battery bank is ok with Aquions as they
don’t need to be fully charged.on a regular basis.

John Blittersdorf




.


On Sat, Nov 10, 2018 at 5:33 PM Lou Russo  wrote:

> Aloha Wrenches,
>
> I have a orphaned system with 6 - Aquion Aspen 48Ss that is running out of
> energy nightly. This is a off-grid system with a Outback FP1. The logs from
> the Mate 3 do not show excess usage. Beyond testing the voltages of the
> individual stacks is there any way to check if a battery is good, bad, or
> failing?  I don't have much experience with Aquions and have yet to have
> any of the 40 or so stacks I have installed fail.
>
> Thanks for your insight.
>
> Aloha,
>
> Lou Russo
> l...@spreesolarsystems.com
> 808 345 6762
> Spree Solar Systems LLC
> CT-34322
>
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Re: [RE-wrenches] PIKA wind turbine.

[John Blittersdorf]

Jeremy,
I bought one early on in their production and set it up at my place for
a demo.  It worked great!
Almost eliminated my generator in the long dark winters here.  Long story
short... I did a major upgrade for one of
my off grid customers including upgrading from Xantrex SW4024Plus to
Outback Flexware 500, 48V system, 5kw of
additional solar on his barn roof,  12 Aquion 48V batteries, new generator,
and lastly removing his aged Bergey XL.1 to replace with
a PIKA.  When I ordered the wind turbine, they were sold out and not
planning to make more.  I had to sell my customer my own turbine
which PIKA  graciously offered to provide full warranty if I shipped it to
them first to prep it for the the new owner.  We then installed it and it
has
worked relatively well except it periodically gets stuck "waiting".  Pika
techs were able to restart it remotely so that service being available
makes it
a workable design for remote sites.  I really miss that turbine... it was
totally quiet, saw up to 2900 watts in a 40 MPH wind.  Good low wind
performance.  I could sell at least 3 of them right now if I could get
them.  Any other wrenches out there interested in getting the PIKA wind
turbine back in production???  I missed a great opportunity at Mid West
Renewable Energy Fair to get some names when the wind workshop presenter
did not show up.  I had 75 potential customers in that tent.  Hesitated too
long to get up in front of that group.

John Blittersdorf

CV Wind Service and Solar  (formerly CV Solar & Wind, then Rob Stubbins
Electrical and Solar)
200 West Road (back where I started 22 years agi)
N Chittenden, VT 05763
802-770-8625 voice and text
john.blittersd...@gmail.com
www.cvsolar.com




On Sun, Oct 14, 2018 at 11:41 PM Jeremy Rodriguez 
wrote:

> We’ve installed 5 of them. Good machine, and they were worth the extensive
> lead times. Pika is not focused on their turbine any more, and I’ve been
> told they will not produce any more, unless they have a large project to
> fulfill.
>
> Jeremy Rodriguez
> Solar Installation / Design Expert
> All Solar, Inc.
> 1463 M St
> Penrose Colorado 81240
>
> Sent by Jeremy's iPhone. Sorry for typos and shorthand.
>
> On Oct 14, 2018, at 8:39 PM, John Blittersdorf <
> john.blittersd...@gmail.com> wrote:
>
> Hi wrenches,
> Do any of you own, have installed or know of a PIKA wind
> installation.  I have a customer asking for a wind turbine to augment the
> 3.5 kw solar running a mountaintop transmitter site.  I’m looking for some
> comments about reliability at an unattended site.
>
> John Blittersdorf
> CV Wind and Solar
>
> Sent from my iPhone
>
> On Oct 10, 2018, at 7:51 PM, Dana  wrote:
>
> My learned fellow Sparkies,
>
>
>
> I have at home off-grid Radian with Mate 3 monitor. Periodically &
> randomly my Mate 3 blanks out and requires a reboot (un-plug / re-plug).
> While this is not such a big deal to address, the total loss of ALL the
> performance & usage data is really concerning in the event that I need the
> data for a T/S.
>
>
>
> I have not called OB as there is no cell service at or near the system and
> to do so is a huge time killer back & forth & waiting to check again. I am
> convinced the brain trust here is the answer.
>
>
>
> Has anyone else experienced this?
>
> Any remedial action to correct this issue?
>
>
>
> Let me know & thanks.
>
>
>
>
> 
>
> Dana Orzel   NABCEP # 051112-136
>
> Cell - 208.721.7003 Email - d...@solarwork.com
>
> Great Solar Works, Idaho Incwww.solarwork.biz
>
> ID PV Contractor - # 028765 - ID PV Electrician # 028374
>
> "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988"
>
> Please consider the environment before printing this email.
>
>
>
>
>
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[RE-wrenches] PIKA wind turbine.

[John Blittersdorf]

Hi wrenches,
Do any of you own, have installed or know of a PIKA wind installation.  I 
have a customer asking for a wind turbine to augment the 3.5 kw solar running a 
mountaintop transmitter site.  I’m looking for some comments about reliability 
at an unattended site.

John Blittersdorf
CV Wind and Solar 

Sent from my iPhone

> On Oct 10, 2018, at 7:51 PM, Dana  wrote:
> 
> My learned fellow Sparkies,
>  
> I have at home off-grid Radian with Mate 3 monitor. Periodically & randomly 
> my Mate 3 blanks out and requires a reboot (un-plug / re-plug). While this is 
> not such a big deal to address, the total loss of ALL the performance & usage 
> data is really concerning in the event that I need the data for a T/S.
>  
> I have not called OB as there is no cell service at or near the system and to 
> do so is a huge time killer back & forth & waiting to check again. I am 
> convinced the brain trust here is the answer.
>  
> Has anyone else experienced this?
> Any remedial action to correct this issue?
>  
> Let me know & thanks.
>  
> 
> Dana Orzel   NABCEP # 051112-136
> Cell - 208.721.7003 Email - d...@solarwork.com
> Great Solar Works, Idaho Incwww.solarwork.biz
> ID PV Contractor - # 028765 - ID PV Electrician # 028374
> "Responsible Technologies for Responsible People since 1988" 
> Please consider the environment before printing this email.
>  
>  
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