[RE-wrenches] Transformer or not?

[benn kilburn]

Hilton,I installed two SMA's (SB6000U and SWR1800U) outside on a roof about 6 years ago, with no reported issues yet, although i am due to check up on these.  We see at least -35C (-31F) each winter.  SMA stated that because they were installed in an environment that could reach outside their rating, that any associated issues would not be covered by warranty. As with most component testing, their internal (within the company) testing went beyond the components stated rating, which of course gives them some cushion room. 
Detail correction... you stated "...the regular -13C rating."  I think you may have meant the regular -13F (-25C) rating?
SMA made a good move by offering the -40C option.  Although we still see that temp and a bit lower from time to time.  but take it if you can get it.
Cheersbenn
DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. www.daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 Certified Construction Electrician Solar Photovoltaic Systems CertifiedCertificate # 0007SHAVE A SUNNY DAY

> From: hiltondier at gmail.com
> Date: Fri, 14 Dec 2012 14:03:36 -0500
> To: RE-wrenches at lists.re-wrenches.org
> Subject: [RE-wrenches] Transformer or not?
> 
> Hello Wrenches,
> 
> I have a customer with questions. We had recommended a standard SMA 5kW inverter for an outdoor installation.
> 
> He is an engineer, so he was looking at the specs for the transformer-less version as well as the one with a transformer. He noted that the rated max efficiency of the non-transformer unit is 3% higher, 98.5%. He also asked about the cold weather -40C option. He lives in central Vermont, which does get below the regular -13C rating. (Although less often lately)
> 
> Any opinions on the relative durability or efficiency of the two versions? Any opinions from cold region installers about the merits of the -40C option?
> 
> Thanks,
> 
> Hilton Dier
> 
> Hilton Dier III
> Renewable Energy Design
> Solar Gain, LLC
> Missisquoi River Hydro LLC
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