[RE-wrenches] Accessibility of Equipment on Roof was Are PV Systems Mechanical Equipment?

[jay peltz]

Hi Jason,

Is it possible to install them on the side of a building?
And Dan's suggestion for the remote midnite might be perfect.

jay


On Feb 7, 2013, at 3:55 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote:

> Jay,
> 
> I assume you mean pitched roofs, or not readily accessible flat roofs. This particular project happens to be a flat commercial roof, but with no permanent ladder or hatch. I really didn't have to use the MNPV6-AC's, but it made sense in this case (excluding the access issue).
> 
> Looks like my options are to remove the combiners or install a permanent access. Neither are fun options. Live and learn...
> 
> Jason Szumlanski 
> Fafco Solar
> 
> 
> 
> On Thu, Feb 7, 2013 at 6:27 PM, jay peltz <jay at asis.com> wrote:
> I'm with your inspector on this.
> 
> I don't install fuses or breakers on roofs
> 
> jay
> 
> peltz power
> 
> 
> On Feb 7, 2013, at 12:02 PM, Jason Szumlanski wrote:
> 
>> While I haven't completely convinced the latest inspector about PV not being mechanical equipment, I'm running into another issue. 
>> 
>> I decided to try out the new Midnite MNPV6-AC combiner for Enphase circuits. Because there are overcurrent devices inside, the inspector now insists that NEC 240.24(A) applies and that the enclosure must be readily accessible, meaning you have to reach it without a ladder. That would seem to make the MNPV6-AC as a roof mounted solution, or Soladeck combiner boxes, or any other combiner box incorporating overcurrent protection, pretty much useless on a pitched roof or flat roof without a permanent access ladder or hatch. 
>> 
>> I'm debating whether to go to battle on this one or just capitulate. 
>> 
>> Jason Szumlanski 
>> Fafco Solar
>> 
>> P.S. To answer benn's question, there is no definition of 'mechanical,' but it does define 'equipment,' and it's clear to me that PV does not fit the description.
>> mbers.re-wrenches.org
>> 
> 
> 
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