Outback VFX with GFCI [RE-wrenches]

[Christopher Freitas --- OutBack Power]

Very good point Allan - I know that there are smoke detector systems 
with back-up batteries in them as well which might be a solution to this 
search mode problem.  

Search mode is a bit "over-rated" as you can usually add another module 
and eliminate the hassle.  Obviously an expensive solution but as a 
portion of the total system cost its fairly low.  Just be sure to keep 
the phantom loads off still.  

Search mode will still have its uses - such as when there is an inverter 
dedicated to power some separate large load such as a well pump that 
runs infrequently.  

Most of the issues we see with GFCI end up being an error in the wiring 
of the system - causing a - you guessed it - ground fault!  

Christopher


Allan Sindelar wrote:
> 
> Kelly,
> The concern I would have is not with GFCIs but with smoke detectors. 
> They
> must be wired such that if one alarms they all do. If the inverter is 
> able
> to sleep, this would not occur. My fear is that in the event of a fire, 
> you
> as installer could be liable for consequences.
> 
> I have never seen anything in print about this, so it may be an
> unsubstantiated fear. But the day may have arrived when we can't allow
> inverters to sleep for reasons of liability.
> 
> I would be interested in others' take on this.
> 
> Allan at Positive Energy
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "Kelly Larson" <solarwrench at asis.com>
> >
> > I am wiring a new off-grid house and wonder about search mode and
> > GFCI/AFCI receptacles and breakers.  The customer is old school and
> > wants the minimum energy use possible.  (Can you believe there are still
> > customers like that out there?)
> >
> > Has anyone run standard NEC wired house with GFCI/AFCI receptacles and
> > breakers and gotten the VFX into the search mode?  Any ideas how much
> > these receptacles and breakers use?  Different wiring approaches for
> > minimum electricity use?
> >
> 



Christopher Freitas
OutBack Power Systems, Inc.
cfreitas @ outbackpower.com  
www.outbackpower.com
Arlington WA USA
Tel 360 435 6030  


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