[RE-wrenches] Future module mis-match

Tump tump at hughes.net
Thu Feb 25 10:07:54 PST 2010


 
 
 
  My "replacement" BP 585 module was a 130 watt panel! NO way in He-- was
this going to fit in the old array.....  

-----Original Message-----
From: re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org
[mailto:re-wrenches-bounces at lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of Jeff Yago
Sent: Thursday, February 25, 2010 10:52 AM
To: dkatz at aeesolar.com; RE-wrenches
Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] Future module mis-match


I have been very concerned that every time we settle on a module brand and
size for a project, the manufacturer switches production or design and these
"older" modules are replaced with a larger or totally different module.  We
always try to hold back at least one extra module for future warranty issues
when we are forced to switch, but that could be very expensive and take up
lots of storage.  The point is we are already seeing many posts here from
installers needing just a few modules to complete a project using modules
that are no longer being manufactured, or to expand an existing system that
needs to match, so what are we all going to do when your older client base
starts calling to order a replacement module that was either physically
damaged or perhaps suffered a thermal shock glass break.  And what will the
manufacturer do to honor a warranty replacement for a module that is no
longer made -  Send a credit voucher?  
 
In other words, will future solar arrays look like a patchwork quilt of
mis-matched modules as we try to keep a system operational using replacement
modules that do not match.  This may not be an issue on a ground mounted
array in the woods, but what about a closely spaced roof array and you
cannot find a replacement module that fits the opening when the damaged
module is removed?   And the same issue if the replacement module you find
fits the opening, but has a totally different volt-amp rating?  Do we just
jumper over and leave the damaged module in place and hope the array voltage
is still in limits?  Will your client consider that an acceptable warranty
solution?
 
So will my collection of a few mis-matched modules of each brand and size
that are no longer manufactured turn into a future gold mine??   Oh well, I
can always dream.................
 
Jeff Yago
DTI Solar

 

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