[RE-wrenches] AC modules verses codes and safety

[Joel Davidson]

DIYers and experimenters have plugged and will continue to plug AC solar modules into wall outlets. See Michael Welsh's Home Power "Ask The Experts" reply about OK4U inverters at http://homepower.com/article/?file=HP116_pg12_AskTheExperts_2

Joel Davidson

  ----- Original Message ----- 
  From: Marv Dargatz 
  To: jryago at netscape.com ; RE-wrenches 
  Sent: Saturday, April 03, 2010 9:36 AM
  Subject: Re: [RE-wrenches] AC modules verses codes and safety


  One key requirement for the installation of grid-tied PV is that it be connected to a dedicated circuit.  This is mandatory to prevent circuit conductor overloading under certain fault conditions.  A DIYer may be inclined to connect his PV into an existing circuit.  We even get inquiries about putting a plug on the end of the PV branch and plugging it into an existing 240vac outlet.  

  Very scary.

  You guys should be the ones installing these systems.  99% of the DIYers are just a disaster waiting to happen.


See ya!

Marv
707 763-4784  x7016


  Jeff Yago wrote: 
    Since the new micro-inverters can be easily wired into the nearest 240 VAC circuit, odds are this will be the new do-it-yourself project for homeowners.  However, odds also favor new round of outlaw solar systems that are not inspected, do not have properly sized wires and breakers, and do not have exterior utility dis-connects (although many states are no longer enforcing this requirement).

    So, it appears to me all the codes still apply regardless of where the inverter or inverters are located, so are any of you seeing an increase of these micro inverter systems installed by the homeowner?

    Jeff Yago
    DTI Solar

     
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