Lightning damage to SW inverters [RE-wrenches]

[Frank Fowler, Crystal Pines Alt. Energy]

In a message dated 9/22/2002 8:23:58 AM Pacific Standard Time, 
jryago at earthlink.net writes:


> I have seen a major increase in Trace SW inverters damaged by lightning.
> All have cost over $1,300 for repairs (not covered by warranty) and all were
> nowhere near direct strikes.
> 
> 

Jeff,
We had the same problem until we changed our install process. We no longer 
use the chassis ground on any of the Trace/Xantrex inverters, and we have had 
no more problems with lightning strikes taking out inverters. I know this is 
against code but it seems to work. I know of several other wrenches that do 
the same thing, and they have reported the same results we have.Of course 
nothing is bullet proof from lightning, it will seek a path anywhere if it 
can. I'ts one of those "damned if you do, damned if you don't" things.

SUNcerely,
Frank Fowler
Crystal Pines Alternative Energy
530-532-1972
cpae1 at aol.com
www.solarenergy-alt.com

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