One Year Owner Review: It has been one year since Scott (Engineer775) and his team installed this system for us. The quality of his work and components he used is exceptional. The configuration he developed for the system works exceptionally well on our property which like many, would impose restrictions on the location of the arrays, etc. The installation of the MicroAir unit on our HVAC system made a very dramatic difference in the required startup current. We couldn't be happier with the system. Would highly recommend Scott and his team! - Wayne and Andra Gilli
Keep us updated on the bypass built in please. Going to be a game changer for those of DIYers on a budget. Thank you for the work you do and sharing the work. Learned a lot from your videos.
I am so HAPPY to see you do a system like this. I am a very old Subscriber and I have felt for many years you forgot about us. I'm a homeowner wanting to do solar (I have a system, just not like this, yet). It seems like for a while every time I went to your channel it was gigantic super rich people systems but that is not how you started when you showed us how to level post with a hose. Thank you for remembering your old subscribers.
MicroAir the best purchase I made during the past winter :) I installed it in spring on my 3Ton AC and have not had a single Solark dropout this year. Last year before the MicroAir getting the AC to start and keep the Solark running was a huge PITA. Well worth the money!
Great setup. Working on my final design for phase 1 which is a the 15k, a bunch of CS 440 (same panel as your, few more watts). Designed to add panels and possibly a 2nd 15k if needed. No good net-metering options, so turning the utility thugs into the backup for the backup if all other backups take a nap. Solar, battery, generator .. then utility. LOVE the videos and they are no only helpful, but certainly set the standard for my expectations of the installer (they may not like you after watching this .. bwahaha!)
The install is impeccable, absolutely amazing work. And yes being the boss means that you see everything everyone misses (most of the time). Thailand has spoiled me as there are no inspectors that come and look at your work because there are no permits needed to do work on your own house on the meter side of the wiring. This system would allow me to totally disconnect from the grid here as I used less than 500 kwh last month. With that comes the "I can't afford this system as my electric bill for the last 4 years has never exceeded 60 dollars. :) Thanks for the impeccable work and the ride along whilst doing it, the time it takes to compose, edit and UL these videos for us to watch!
It would be nice to see the wire management underneath the panels. Honestly mine are ugly as heck and I would like to learn how the professionals do it. Excellent video I have my 15K Sol-Ark mounted but not plugged in yet. I hope to not blow anything up. LOL!
Man I really like that ground mount. Its attractive and looks as strong as a brick poop house! I'm on hardpan, glacial till, rock or whatever you want to call it. I'd have to dig and concrete them in place. Nice job, Scott!!
I too am looking to install ground mount. What system is this? So far all I've seen is Ironridge, and your install looks a lot cleaner than all that concrete and steel.
I have an EasyStart on my 4T Rheem HP. Works great and I think it is much better for the compressor to be started more gradually that way. Also the support for Easy Start is EXCELLENT. IF there are any questions about how it should be installed, just email a photo of your system to them. They will promptly return that pic with colored overlay showing exactly how to do it on your system. I've been running mine for two years now in a Sol-Ark 12K system and have had no problems.
I sure enjoy your videos. I like the explanations Showing what parts your using Explaining as you do. If I’m not careful, I will geek out for an hour or so on your videos. Thank you for doing these. I’m really glad you did the 15K Sol-Ark video for a customer. I figured you would give update videos to your home 15k you put in, but your prob too busy working. Bifacials: I figured The increase initial cost compared to the increase production was probably not significant enough to install by facial panels? Thanks.
Great video...i have the 12k and everything else ready is the same...just waiting on PPL!!! Randy at Practical Preppers is awesome...Thanks Scott & Lori!
I bought that same system you installed in a past video, a Mr cool universal 4-5 ton and I run that thing on solar with ease. It blows me away how much less energy that that thing uses.
That looks great as usual! Have you ever thought about using seal tite instead of conduit out of the Sol Ark into the gutter? I was able to use a 6x6 gutter underneath it.
Seal-tite drops/whips seems to be the best practice. Keeps the DC and AC separate, and if you are putting these in parallel, you can match the whips to their own surface mount J-box and then run conduit to wherever those circuits need to go.
where are you getting the ground mount PLP Power Peak system from? i cant seem to find a distributor here in GA, called most of the places they have listed as "distributor" on PLPL website and none of the seems to know what that is... please help..
I just installed a 15k and had no problems starting the AC. The lights do flicker just a bit . I told the customer they can have a soft start installed if they dont like the slight flicker. 15k has 200% surge for 100ms if i remember right.) BTW even the old 12k solarks can be tweaked to allow higher surge loads to be started. If you go into battery settings and turn up the battery resistance ohms it will allow for higher surging believe it or not. This will also probably mess with battery soc readings if you aren't voltage based or have closed loop comms with your batts.
Looks great as usual Scott! Wish you lived closer 😀 I'm in FL and have been waiting for the Smart Load 14 (waiting to see your upcoming job with one) so I can do everything at the same time and avoid using a CL Panel. Most of the contractors here put Tigo optimizers in the quote but I don't see them on your jobs. Any reason? I have to put the panels on the roof but there is no shade. Just wondering if I can tell them to skip the Tigo and use that money toward the SL-14.
Straight from the rule book; Section 690.12 of the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC 2020) covers rapid shutdown requirements which, with a few exceptions, have largely remained unchanged since the last Code cycle (NEC 2017). Honestly if you can get your hands on them, tigo is a great equipment choice IMO. 👍
@@jeffmiller2806 that ones about a $400 trip charge but we come to tampa every other Thursday/friday as needed as needed. Dm me some contact info if youd like to talk about your situation
10:11 32 x 400W panel = 12.8KW, where does your "3.3KW" come from? Those look like nice panels, and way cheaper than I'd expected in the UK. I'll make a note of those, thanks for the recommendation
@ 3:00 to about 5:00. Mixed systems (DC, AC, etc. all mixed together in a common wireway) -- a sharp inspector is probably going to No-Go you on that. Yeah, I know the gawd-awful bottom on the Sol-Ark leads folks to do things like that . . . but what seems to be the best practice(s) is to use Sealtite drops to large j-box / pull box on the wall below, and then conduit to wherever they are going. @ 5:00 -- yeah, Soft Starts on AC are working well for Solar Installs. Even better are Variable Speed compressors to optimize the loads. @ 7:00. Your wireway (again). Check Article 110 regarding working clearances in front of equipment -- regarding the Circuit Breaker Panel. Looks like wireway creates a conflict. @ 10:00. DC pull box. You are entering a non-solar-dedicated building with the DC lines. This requires Rapid Shutdown? You may meet this with putting a DC disconnect in place of the pull box? Or is that being handled at the array(s)?
@@philtimmons722 Didn't see one, so who knows if one got put in during the video or not. You're also right about the need for rapid shutdown, article 690. Most installs use the Tigo units with the PLC transmitter unit. The Sol-Ark has 12V DC output that can power the transmitter so it's pretty convenient to use.
@@fiveohgod You follow I am not really trying to bust him -- but he has done this same (improper) stuff on several videos -- and then folks in the Real World see this and think the stuff is the way to go. We have a real problem with collective ignorance compounding in these fields. I just figure he should correct the errors and cover that, and then it is really helpful to people watching.
Put white Limestone on the ground underneath those bifacial panels. It will increase your output by about 10% or better. You're going to need at least 40 KW of solar capacity to run that 4-ton air conditioner.
I have been waiting for this installation as you previously mentioned and you also used Canadian Solar panels. Yes, the Sol-Ark 15k Inverter installation is much cleaner. DID IT START UP THE 4 TON AIR CONDITIONER BEFORE YOU PUT THE SMART LOAD WHILE RUNNING THE EVERY DAY HOUSE LOADS? We live on a small island where there are CATEGORY 5 HURRICANES. DO YOU BELIEVE THEY ARE VIABLE FOR THESE CONDITIONS?
If that condenser has a low ambient temperature kit sometimes they will sound loud and spin slowly on low temperature days. Just a future of the kit on a non ECM motor.
That install is very encouraging for me! I am trying to be a DIY'er and the system that I am trying to install is very similar to this installation with exception of having a GE 200amp transfer switch between the 200amp fused disconnect and the Sol-Ark 15K's grid input. I want to use a portable generator and 6 e-flex batteries to go off grid for at least a portion of the day in California between the 4-9pm peak hours. Unfortunately, I'm also in PPA that is grid tied into my main 200amp service panel which (If I'm correct) can still be controlled by the 15K using frequency shifting even though it's not directly connected to the generator input on the 15K. (I'm hoping to connect the 15K directly to the main service panel). My concern is that if something were to happen to the 15K and the utility power, I wouldn't be able to use my portable generator to power my main service panel because the grid tied solar might come on and destroy my portable generator. I saw on one of your install episodes where you put in a relay switch to turn off the grid tied solar when the generator was in use. Do you.sell those relay switches on your website?
Sorry..., the relay switch question was kind of dumb. Is there a way to wire some sort of disconnect using the GE transfer switch to deactivate either the generator or the grid tied solar? There is a breaker panel for the grid tied solar..., maybe I can use a manual interlock kit from Amazon????
When you say that it is not grid tied, I assume what you mean is that it is all wired just as a grid tied, but the settings on the 15k are set for no export to grid?
So, were there "Micro Inverters" on the panels? If not, how were the panels wired (series strings and then parallel?) and to what voltage did the Sol-Ark see from the panels? Did I hear you say 8 AWG from panels to the inverter? I am trying to learn from you. Thanks!
You mentioned you skipped the bypass switch. I always like to install them in case something ever happens to the inverter. That way the customer can send power from the grid to their critical load panel (or in this case the main service panel). Are you saying the new Sol-Ark would allow that passthrough even if the inverter were not operational? It looks awesome by the way. Glad to see others going this route. Fun conversations to have and projects to sell. I'm going to look into those ARK batteries. -Zach
The spec sheets of the 15k don’t show L-N rating on inverter only on generator/grid. Wondering how much imbalance the 15 can take. I know with the 12k it would only do about 4500w on any leg max.
So there is a clearance code that you broke with that wire way/gutter. Pretty sure it can’t stick out more than 6inches from the flush mounted MDP. Just noticing. I did the same thing once and failed, same code different situation.
Surge startup isn't the problem for me. My inverter has a 54 KW surge capability. The problem is that I only have 42 KW hours of battery storage and if we run the air conditioning and it's cloudy the next day we don't recover the battery capacity and have to switch the grid power for a few hours until the batteries charge back up to full.
I didn’t get to see inside the wire trough, where did the CT sensors get laid? I’m setting mine up right now, this is not clear. Also, how did you manage the SER cable to go into the 1.5 inch conduit openings, that seems too tight.
I am being told my new home needs a 400 amp service. From what I understand, this is just two 200 amp circuits brought into one panel. Is there a Sol-Ark configuration that would work with this requirement?
Seriously good looking build. I especially like what a lot of people might call the "overbuilt" aspect of the trough, all the conduit and the attention to the detailed placement of well, everything.. Yeah, you probably need a lot of it to be 100% code compliant, but it also make the job look super pro quality. This is the kind of work that I would pay for.
I thought Solark limits the mppt to 6500w per channel x 3 for the 15k. How are you managing the 25% overage? Seems like you have 16 panels that shouldn’t be connected?
So as much as I would like to think I could do something like this myself… Question is how far do you travel?. I live in Northwest Florida and Florida power and light can go suck it. They reduced their net metering buyback to almost Three cents per kilowatt hour.
@@blaiselamielle6702 And what's the cost difference??? I'd do a 15k over 2 8k's (which can't be paralleled) every day of the week. Two 12k's might make sense, but a LOT more money, and you still don't get the 200A bypass!
This is probably the type of system I need (sized slightly larger), but with the two-angle solar panels. Is the Sol-Ark 15k better than running 2x 8K units? Whats the ballpark price for this sized system?
@@Turkeychuk It's a good question and it depends on whether or not you have over current protection upstream from the disconnect. If there is a 200 amp breaker upstream in the meter base then. No, you do not need a fuse disconnect but if it's just a standard meter base with no breakers then you have to put in a fused disconnect. One other way around it is to put in an enclosed circuit breaker at 200 amps plus a lockable non-fuse disconnect, but that ends up being more expensive in the long run.
Have you given thought to what autotransformer you would use if it turned out that inrush current from somewhere was tripping the inverter? Victron has a 30A, & 100A but they need a 12V signal for when the grid is out so it can flip a relay and bond the neutral and ground. The Outback units are I think too small to be really very good for this size inverter
How does the sol ark manage multidirectional arrays and/or shading? We do 95% grid tie systems and we’ve been doing all IQ8 enphase but id like to carry a second option. Also you mentioned ev car charging on the last video. Is there there anything to do to limit load for power outage where we can pull back but not eliminate charging? We also sub for sunrun and have lots of 80 amp bi directional chargers to install. I can supply a diagram if you’re curious
The Sol-Ark does not (manage multi-plane or shading). If you use DC-DC optimizers (can also cover Rapid Shutdown) they can manage and balance the string(s) and feed directly to the PV inputs of the Sol-Ark. If you use Micro-Inverters (AC) -- I have seen prints showing the Generator (AC) input on the Sol-Ark. HOWEVER -- THE CURRENT MANUAL FOR THE 15K SAY DO NOT DO THIS. Instead, the manual now shows AC backfeed breakers from your Enphase (or whatever brand) into the Main C/B panel (if below 120% of the Bus Rating) -- same as usual. You load shedding question gets more complex. If you wish to discuss details, philiptimmons@yahoo.com. Sol-Ark is a little bit challenged on documentation, but better than many. If you look up their present manuals on a 12X or 15 kW -- it has a lot of connection diagram examples. See page 10 for your Micro-Inverter question >> www.sol-ark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/15KOD-Manual-6-30-2022.pdf
Another amazing build. Looks fantastic. Well done. Nice job on the AC. That condenser fan seemed to be having trouble? Or was that the shutter speed making the blade seems slow moving? Thanks for sharing.
Great info! Would be nice to have a link to the solar rack. I have a problem with finding the wire way for the 15K like the one you are using. What brand and model is it?
Hey Scott, so if I'm understanding you correctly with the 15K you can set it up to use solar when available and then through the AC bypass in the inverter use grid power without having battery back-up but not sell back to the grid, you would not have the requirement for an interconnect agreement and jump through utility co hoops?
Hi Good Day, I have serval site with SolArks, the thing is they Require a static IP on The Ethernet port but according to Solark The WIFi Dongle although it has a ethernet port , a static IP cannot be set. Have you ever come across this?
What about NEC 110.26(A)(3)? - "Other equipment or support structures, such as concrete pads, associated with the installation that is located within the working space is not permitted to extend more than 6 inches beyond the front of the electrical equipment requiring the working space." The gutter extends 12" in front of the panel
Exceptions. “This requirement allows the placement of a 12 inch × 12 inch wireway on the wall directly above or below a 6-inch-deep panelboard without encroaching on the working space. The requirement prohibits large differences in depth of equipment below or above other equipment that specifically requires working space. Freestanding, dry-type transformers are not permitted to be installed where they would extend into the work space for a wall-mounted panelboard, compromising clear access to the panelboard.” -NEC 2020 Handbook Also 90.4 because it passed.
@@willistisdale4293 I agree with you, but the (expletive deleted) inspectors can say that is only if the panel is mounted on the same plane as the trough. That leaves a 6" protrusion into the workspace, not 12". Personally I think the 12" makes a nice little workbench in front of the panel.
@@realnealsmith 😂 it does make a good workbench. IMO it made for a cleaner looking install for the end user and it doesn’t really hinder work in the panel. Also the installation of a fused PV/service disconnect outside next to the meter makes it safe for any qualified service electrician to kill the entire panel and work safely. As a working electrician all I can say is I ❤️ inspectors 😂.
Hey love all you’re videos quick question what type of hardware are you using to mount the the panels to the ground mount looks like they essentially clamp to a lip ? Iam planning on building a solar carport this summer and looking for something quick and easy to attach the panels to my steel structure
I think they could, but in my case at least (mitsubishi hyperheat, tesla solar) it wasn't necessary. I believe minisplits generally take less energy to get spinning. You'd have to check the plate on your condenser and compare it to the specs of the inverter.
@@ShortVersion1 ok thanks for reply. Love the channel. In a few years my challenge is to have a off grid 20 -30kw system including lithium installed for under 25k usd. What a challenge.
@@lennieadi that's definitely possible with how fast prices have been falling. One thing to look into is off grid probably doesn't get the federal tax credit, which could also be applied to batteries and roofing costs associated with install.
@@ShortVersion1 Cheers buddy. It’s in Caribbean so I dint theirs are any tax benefits. I know they can net bill but that’s about as far I I know. Will need to do more research.
I have to ask...are you sponsored or in association with Sol-Ark? I am interested in the Sol-Ark 15Kw inverter as I am starting to plan a new house build and would like to incorporate hybrid solars system; on-grid, battery, and generator backup.
Another great video!!! Just curious…if you are willing to share…how much do you charge for an install on a job like this?? Not equipment, just install. Much appreciated!!
Any issues with loading one sol ark leg too much over the other one? I heard you need to keep them balanced or you don't get near the rated power and overload error kicks in. There's a guy with a 12k that used an auto transformer to balance it to get full power
Will this sol-ark 15k and some batteries make it possible to convert my grid-tied solar with enphase microinverters to offgrid solar? I'm really looking forward to it.
Do you have to replace the 200amp breaker on the main panel with a lower rating (150amp) on this 15k setup? I didn't hear that if you did or not. Scott, when you go back for a follow up, can you show us how the 15k is zeroing out the meter?
One Year Owner Review: It has been one year since Scott (Engineer775) and his team installed this system for us. The quality of his work and components he used is exceptional. The configuration he developed for the system works exceptionally well on our property which like many, would impose restrictions on the location of the arrays, etc. The installation of the MicroAir unit on our HVAC system made a very dramatic difference in the required startup current. We couldn't be happier with the system. Would highly recommend Scott and his team! - Wayne and Andra Gilli
Keep us updated on the bypass built in please. Going to be a game changer for those of DIYers on a budget. Thank you for the work you do and sharing the work. Learned a lot from your videos.
I am so HAPPY to see you do a system like this. I am a very old Subscriber and I have felt for many years you forgot about us. I'm a homeowner wanting to do solar (I have a system, just not like this, yet). It seems like for a while every time I went to your channel it was gigantic super rich people systems but that is not how you started when you showed us how to level post with a hose. Thank you for remembering your old subscribers.
MicroAir the best purchase I made during the past winter :) I installed it in spring on my 3Ton AC and have not had a single Solark dropout this year. Last year before the MicroAir getting the AC to start and keep the Solark running was a huge PITA. Well worth the money!
Where did you buy it?
The quality of your installs is impeccable. Great workmanship!!!
Good Work! Typically craftsmanship is lacking in this industry. Love your planning and execution.
Great setup. Working on my final design for phase 1 which is a the 15k, a bunch of CS 440 (same panel as your, few more watts). Designed to add panels and possibly a 2nd 15k if needed. No good net-metering options, so turning the utility thugs into the backup for the backup if all other backups take a nap. Solar, battery, generator .. then utility. LOVE the videos and they are no only helpful, but certainly set the standard for my expectations of the installer (they may not like you after watching this .. bwahaha!)
The install is impeccable, absolutely amazing work. And yes being the boss means that you see everything everyone misses (most of the time). Thailand has spoiled me as there are no inspectors that come and look at your work because there are no permits needed to do work on your own house on the meter side of the wiring. This system would allow me to totally disconnect from the grid here as I used less than 500 kwh last month. With that comes the "I can't afford this system as my electric bill for the last 4 years has never exceeded 60 dollars. :) Thanks for the impeccable work and the ride along whilst doing it, the time it takes to compose, edit and UL these videos for us to watch!
It would be nice to see the wire management underneath the panels. Honestly mine are ugly as heck and I would like to learn how the professionals do it. Excellent video I have my 15K Sol-Ark mounted but not plugged in yet. I hope to not blow anything up. LOL!
How did your 15k install go. I just ordered mine. Im freaking out.lol
Great work and video. We love Solark here in Arkansas. Nice to hear about the Canadian panels. They are a lot more available in our area as of late.
Mike holt has lots of info on ground rods.
Man I really like that ground mount. Its attractive and looks as strong as a brick poop house! I'm on hardpan, glacial till, rock or whatever you want to call it. I'd have to dig and concrete them in place. Nice job, Scott!!
I too am looking to install ground mount. What system is this? So far all I've seen is Ironridge, and your install looks a lot cleaner than all that concrete and steel.
AWSOME stuff!
Just installed a SolArk 5k in KY with a string of (8) 460w panels 😃
I love these things.
I have an EasyStart on my 4T Rheem HP. Works great and I think it is much better for the
compressor to be started more gradually that way. Also the support for Easy Start is EXCELLENT. IF there are any questions about how it should be installed, just email a photo of your system to them. They will promptly return that pic with colored overlay showing exactly how to do it on your system.
I've been running mine for two years now in a Sol-Ark 12K system and have had no problems.
Awesome job again Scott. Love the videos. I am drooling over that Sol-Ark 15k!
I sure enjoy your videos.
I like the explanations
Showing what parts your using
Explaining as you do.
If I’m not careful, I will geek out for an hour or so on your videos.
Thank you for doing these.
I’m really glad you did the 15K Sol-Ark video for a customer.
I figured you would give update videos to your home 15k you put in, but your prob too busy working.
Bifacials: I figured The increase initial cost compared to the increase production was probably not significant enough to install by facial panels?
Thanks.
The easy starts work on all the AC units. Great product.
Great video...i have the 12k and everything else ready is the same...just waiting on PPL!!! Randy at Practical Preppers is awesome...Thanks Scott & Lori!
I bought that same system you installed in a past video, a Mr cool universal 4-5 ton and I run that thing on solar with ease. It blows me away how much less energy that that thing uses.
Can I jump in and ask how many ft2 youre cooling with that system and how many heads?
I understand that for bifacial-solar-panels the down face needs a white floor, white gravel so the reflection of light will produce energy....
The micro airs are great a lot of people us them on camper ac units
This is exactly what I want. Have space for a 6k south facing DC string and a bunch of east/west for AC with micros.
That looks great as usual! Have you ever thought about using seal tite instead of conduit out of the Sol Ark into the gutter? I was able to use a 6x6 gutter underneath it.
Seal-tite drops/whips seems to be the best practice. Keeps the DC and AC separate, and if you are putting these in parallel, you can match the whips to their own surface mount J-box and then run conduit to wherever those circuits need to go.
I have a very similar issue with utility and we are contemplating the SolArk 15k. The install seems very tidy.
where are you getting the ground mount PLP Power Peak system from? i cant seem to find a distributor here in GA, called most of the places they have listed as "distributor" on PLPL website and none of the seems to know what that is... please help..
I sure would've liked to have seen a lot more focus of the actual 15K in action! And would it start the AC w/o the soft start?
I just installed a 15k and had no problems starting the AC. The lights do flicker just a bit . I told the customer they can have a soft start installed if they dont like the slight flicker. 15k has 200% surge for 100ms if i remember right.) BTW even the old 12k solarks can be tweaked to allow higher surge loads to be started. If you go into battery settings and turn up the battery resistance ohms it will allow for higher surging believe it or not. This will also probably mess with battery soc readings if you aren't voltage based or have closed loop comms with your batts.
@@juskarn Any details for the AC system which it successfully starts?
You have to balance load or it cuts out
It gives a 34 warning when it should be 26 or 27 as its not a transformer inverter
Since bifacial, any plans to put down white rock behind/under the panels?
Yes, that is the homeowner's plan right now is to put some type of reflective material under the arrays.
Another first class professional installation !
Looks great as usual Scott! Wish you lived closer 😀 I'm in FL and have been waiting for the Smart Load 14 (waiting to see your upcoming job with one) so I can do everything at the same time and avoid using a CL Panel. Most of the contractors here put Tigo optimizers in the quote but I don't see them on your jobs. Any reason? I have to put the panels on the roof but there is no shade. Just wondering if I can tell them to skip the Tigo and use that money toward the SL-14.
I believe RSD is code now.
Straight from the rule book; Section 690.12 of the 2020 National Electrical Code (NEC 2020) covers rapid shutdown requirements which, with a few exceptions, have largely remained unchanged since the last Code cycle (NEC 2017).
Honestly if you can get your hands on them, tigo is a great equipment choice IMO. 👍
If you’re on duke or fpl I can help ya
@@mattbrew11 I'm on teco
@@jeffmiller2806 that ones about a $400 trip charge but we come to tampa every other Thursday/friday as needed as needed. Dm me some contact info if youd like to talk about your situation
I noticed you have the new EG4 6500 on your website, are you gonna hang one on the wall and load lt up.for us off grid guys.
Yes sir. I'll have a video soon once I'm finished with my testing. So far so good.
Great solar info! Hate the iPhone vid. Too tuff to follow. Zoom the focal length OUT!
10:11 32 x 400W panel = 12.8KW, where does your "3.3KW" come from?
Those look like nice panels, and way cheaper than I'd expected in the UK. I'll make a note of those, thanks for the recommendation
I have 29 of the panels. Strong and reliable. Have survived 4 Hurricanes.
I don’t think all the panels were all connected.
@@AaronBlake good point 👍
@@morganbloom5893 nice to know, thanks
@ 3:00 to about 5:00. Mixed systems (DC, AC, etc. all mixed together in a common wireway) -- a sharp inspector is probably going to No-Go you on that. Yeah, I know the gawd-awful bottom on the Sol-Ark leads folks to do things like that . . . but what seems to be the best practice(s) is to use Sealtite drops to large j-box / pull box on the wall below, and then conduit to wherever they are going.
@ 5:00 -- yeah, Soft Starts on AC are working well for Solar Installs. Even better are Variable Speed compressors to optimize the loads.
@ 7:00. Your wireway (again). Check Article 110 regarding working clearances in front of equipment -- regarding the Circuit Breaker Panel. Looks like wireway creates a conflict.
@ 10:00. DC pull box. You are entering a non-solar-dedicated building with the DC lines. This requires Rapid Shutdown? You may meet this with putting a DC disconnect in place of the pull box? Or is that being handled at the array(s)?
Mixed AC/DC in a gutter is allowed if you put in a divider
@@rocketsurgeon4876 Did you see a divider?
@@philtimmons722 Didn't see one, so who knows if one got put in during the video or not. You're also right about the need for rapid shutdown, article 690. Most installs use the Tigo units with the PLC transmitter unit. The Sol-Ark has 12V DC output that can power the transmitter so it's pretty convenient to use.
Was looking thru comments for someone to bring up the 3 foot rule.
@@fiveohgod You follow I am not really trying to bust him -- but he has done this same (improper) stuff on several videos -- and then folks in the Real World see this and think the stuff is the way to go. We have a real problem with collective ignorance compounding in these fields. I just figure he should correct the errors and cover that, and then it is really helpful to people watching.
Put white Limestone on the ground underneath those bifacial panels. It will increase your output by about 10% or better. You're going to need at least 40 KW of solar capacity to run that 4-ton air conditioner.
Lol wut 😂
I have been waiting for this installation as you previously mentioned and you also used Canadian Solar panels.
Yes, the Sol-Ark 15k Inverter installation is much cleaner. DID IT START UP THE 4 TON AIR CONDITIONER BEFORE YOU PUT THE SMART LOAD WHILE RUNNING THE EVERY DAY HOUSE LOADS?
We live on a small island where there are CATEGORY 5 HURRICANES. DO YOU BELIEVE THEY ARE VIABLE FOR THESE CONDITIONS?
It me or does that ac need a new fan motor?
its the sample rate of the video camera. just like looking at a helicopter on video
If that condenser has a low ambient temperature kit sometimes they will sound loud and spin slowly on low temperature days. Just a future of the kit on a non ECM motor.
That install is very encouraging for me! I am trying to be a DIY'er and the system that I am trying to install is very similar to this installation with exception of having a GE 200amp transfer switch between the 200amp fused disconnect and the Sol-Ark 15K's grid input. I want to use a portable generator and 6 e-flex batteries to go off grid for at least a portion of the day in California between the 4-9pm peak hours. Unfortunately, I'm also in PPA that is grid tied into my main 200amp service panel which (If I'm correct) can still be controlled by the 15K using frequency shifting even though it's not directly connected to the generator input on the 15K. (I'm hoping to connect the 15K directly to the main service panel). My concern is that if something were to happen to the 15K and the utility power, I wouldn't be able to use my portable generator to power my main service panel because the grid tied solar might come on and destroy my portable generator. I saw on one of your install episodes where you put in a relay switch to turn off the grid tied solar when the generator was in use. Do you.sell those relay switches on your website?
Sorry..., the relay switch question was kind of dumb. Is there a way to wire some sort of disconnect using the GE transfer switch to deactivate either the generator or the grid tied solar? There is a breaker panel for the grid tied solar..., maybe I can use a manual interlock kit from Amazon????
Put the panels up higher and give the customer a couple of shaded area to sit under.
The trade-off becomes more wind-load on the array. In the Great White North being higher can keep them out of snow.
When you say that it is not grid tied, I assume what you mean is that it is all wired just as a grid tied, but the settings on the 15k are set for no export to grid?
So, were there "Micro Inverters" on the panels? If not, how were the panels wired (series strings and then parallel?) and to what voltage did the Sol-Ark see from the panels? Did I hear you say 8 AWG from panels to the inverter?
I am trying to learn from you. Thanks!
You mentioned you skipped the bypass switch. I always like to install them in case something ever happens to the inverter. That way the customer can send power from the grid to their critical load panel (or in this case the main service panel). Are you saying the new Sol-Ark would allow that passthrough even if the inverter were not operational? It looks awesome by the way. Glad to see others going this route. Fun conversations to have and projects to sell. I'm going to look into those ARK batteries.
-Zach
Did you find how it works?
Lol mine is being Installed as you release this video. Also it will only do 275a on DC if you use all battery terminals otherwise only 160a.
I hope your installation goes well, but I do not have a problem pulling 275 amps in the "current" configuration.
@@engineer775 good to know, that is what the manual stated anyway. I can't test yet. Page 21 of the manual is where I found that info.
@@hoocli Looks like they just added that to the June version of the manual. I don't see the 160A number though.
@@niktak1114 sorry that was page 20
@@hoocli which version of the manual are you looking at? I don't see anything about 160A in the 06-30 version.
The spec sheets of the 15k don’t show L-N rating on inverter only on generator/grid. Wondering how much imbalance the 15 can take. I know with the 12k it would only do about 4500w on any leg max.
I'm waiting to know that information too before I commit to the 15k. Sol-Ark sales want helpful. Did you ever find the answer?
Did you ever get your answer here? I have seen videos of people load testing them HARD with batteries but im curious as well
What brand of racking is that, and what kind of machine are you using to push the supports into the ground?
Didn't use the INRUSH setting on the meter , again .
Good job! I enjoy your videos....great information. Thanks!
So there is a clearance code that you broke with that wire way/gutter. Pretty sure it can’t stick out more than 6inches from the flush mounted MDP. Just noticing. I did the same thing once and failed, same code different situation.
Surge startup isn't the problem for me. My inverter has a 54 KW surge capability. The problem is that I only have 42 KW hours of battery storage and if we run the air conditioning and it's cloudy the next day we don't recover the battery capacity and have to switch the grid power for a few hours until the batteries charge back up to full.
Is there a way to connect the Sol Ark 15k to power the whole house using a All In One” (combination meter/breaker) service panel?
Do you still have to pull permits if you don't do a grid tie system?
i want to see u hit that disconnect and see if everything will run. You know that is the first thing the customer is going to do when u leave.
I didn’t get to see inside the wire trough, where did the CT sensors get laid? I’m setting mine up right now, this is not clear. Also, how did you manage the SER cable to go into the 1.5 inch conduit openings, that seems too tight.
I am being told my new home needs a 400 amp service. From what I understand, this is just two 200 amp circuits brought into one panel. Is there a Sol-Ark configuration that would work with this requirement?
Great job guys
How many solar panels per string?, also what solar panels did you use?
Seriously good looking build. I especially like what a lot of people might call the "overbuilt" aspect of the trough, all the conduit and the attention to the detailed placement of well, everything.. Yeah, you probably need a lot of it to be 100% code compliant, but it also make the job look super pro quality. This is the kind of work that I would pay for.
I thought Solark limits the mppt to 6500w per channel x 3 for the 15k. How are you managing the 25% overage? Seems like you have 16 panels that shouldn’t be connected?
So as much as I would like to think I could do something like this myself… Question is how far do you travel?. I live in Northwest Florida and Florida power and light can go suck it. They reduced their net metering buyback to almost Three cents per kilowatt hour.
Instead of one 15k, wouldn't two 8ks be better? That way, if one goes down, you will still have some power being generated.
@@OldManLawrence thanks. I thought all of the Sol Arks paralleled.
@@blaiselamielle6702 And what's the cost difference??? I'd do a 15k over 2 8k's (which can't be paralleled) every day of the week. Two 12k's might make sense, but a LOT more money, and you still don't get the 200A bypass!
@@ssoffshore5111 200 amp passthrough is so good! Literally one of the things that sold me on the inverter (other than all the other amazing features)
This is probably the type of system I need (sized slightly larger), but with the two-angle solar panels.
Is the Sol-Ark 15k better than running 2x 8K units?
Whats the ballpark price for this sized system?
Do you need a fuseable disconnect or can you just have a nonfused 200amp disconnect?
@@Turkeychuk It's a good question and it depends on whether or not you have over current protection upstream from the disconnect. If there is a 200 amp breaker upstream in the meter base then. No, you do not need a fuse disconnect but if it's just a standard meter base with no breakers then you have to put in a fused disconnect. One other way around it is to put in an enclosed circuit breaker at 200 amps plus a lockable non-fuse disconnect, but that ends up being more expensive in the long run.
Have you given thought to what autotransformer you would use if it turned out that inrush current from somewhere was tripping the inverter? Victron has a 30A, & 100A but they need a 12V signal for when the grid is out so it can flip a relay and bond the neutral and ground. The Outback units are I think too small to be really very good for this size inverter
How does the sol ark manage multidirectional arrays and/or shading?
We do 95% grid tie systems and we’ve been doing all IQ8 enphase but id like to carry a second option. Also you mentioned ev car charging on the last video. Is there there anything to do to limit load for power outage where we can pull back but not eliminate charging? We also sub for sunrun and have lots of 80 amp bi directional chargers to install. I can supply a diagram if you’re curious
The Sol-Ark does not (manage multi-plane or shading). If you use DC-DC optimizers (can also cover Rapid Shutdown) they can manage and balance the string(s) and feed directly to the PV inputs of the Sol-Ark.
If you use Micro-Inverters (AC) -- I have seen prints showing the Generator (AC) input on the Sol-Ark. HOWEVER -- THE CURRENT MANUAL FOR THE 15K SAY DO NOT DO THIS. Instead, the manual now shows AC backfeed breakers from your Enphase (or whatever brand) into the Main C/B panel (if below 120% of the Bus Rating) -- same as usual.
You load shedding question gets more complex. If you wish to discuss details, philiptimmons@yahoo.com.
Sol-Ark is a little bit challenged on documentation, but better than many. If you look up their present manuals on a 12X or 15 kW -- it has a lot of connection diagram examples. See page 10 for your Micro-Inverter question >> www.sol-ark.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/15KOD-Manual-6-30-2022.pdf
Hi, Is this 230volt , q2, what would you recommend for a UPC that would control a Gen. for a back up to a server room?
Another amazing build. Looks fantastic. Well done. Nice job on the AC. That condenser fan seemed to be having trouble? Or was that the shutter speed making the blade seems slow moving? Thanks for sharing.
Of course it's the shutter speed.
Great info! Would be nice to have a link to the solar rack. I have a problem with finding the wire way for the 15K like the one you are using. What brand and model is it?
What was the reasoning behind using aluminum wire instead of copper?
Have you had a chance to use the Sol-Ark Microinverters?
Who makes those busbars connecting the ark batteries?
Hey Scott, so if I'm understanding you correctly with the 15K you can set it up to use solar when available and then through the AC bypass in the inverter use grid power without having battery back-up but not sell back to the grid, you would not have the requirement for an interconnect agreement and jump through utility co hoops?
What was the overall cost of this job?
Why do you need a fuesable disconnect?
Will you work in Horry County?
Hi Good Day, I have serval site with SolArks, the thing is they Require a static IP on The Ethernet port but according to Solark The WIFi Dongle although it has a ethernet port , a static IP cannot be set. Have you ever come across this?
What about NEC 110.26(A)(3)? - "Other equipment or support structures, such as concrete pads, associated with the installation that is located within the working space is not permitted to extend more than 6 inches beyond the front of the electrical equipment requiring the working space." The gutter extends 12" in front of the panel
Exceptions.
“This requirement allows the placement of a 12 inch × 12 inch wireway on the wall directly above or below a 6-inch-deep panelboard without encroaching on the working space. The requirement prohibits large differences in depth of equipment below or above other equipment that specifically requires working space. Freestanding, dry-type transformers are not permitted to be installed where they would extend into the work space for a wall-mounted panelboard, compromising clear access to the panelboard.”
-NEC 2020 Handbook
Also 90.4 because it passed.
@@willistisdale4293 I agree with you, but the (expletive deleted) inspectors can say that is only if the panel is mounted on the same plane as the trough. That leaves a 6" protrusion into the workspace, not 12". Personally I think the 12" makes a nice little workbench in front of the panel.
@@realnealsmith 😂 it does make a good workbench. IMO it made for a cleaner looking install for the end user and it doesn’t really hinder work in the panel. Also the installation of a fused PV/service disconnect outside next to the meter makes it safe for any qualified service electrician to kill the entire panel and work safely. As a working electrician all I can say is I ❤️ inspectors 😂.
Hey love all you’re videos quick question what type of hardware are you using to mount the the panels to the ground mount looks like they essentially clamp to a lip ? Iam planning on building a solar carport this summer and looking for something quick and easy to attach the panels to my steel structure
Won’t need any permits etc where I live
How many full working days did this install take?
Did you make that template?
Yes sir and we sell them.
When do you think they'll have the EMP 15K?
I wonder if easy start can work with mini split AC SYSTEMS?
I think they could, but in my case at least (mitsubishi hyperheat, tesla solar) it wasn't necessary. I believe minisplits generally take less energy to get spinning. You'd have to check the plate on your condenser and compare it to the specs of the inverter.
@@ShortVersion1 ok thanks for reply. Love the channel. In a few years my challenge is to have a off grid 20 -30kw system including lithium installed for under 25k usd. What a challenge.
@@lennieadi that's definitely possible with how fast prices have been falling. One thing to look into is off grid probably doesn't get the federal tax credit, which could also be applied to batteries and roofing costs associated with install.
@@ShortVersion1 Cheers buddy. It’s in Caribbean so I dint theirs are any tax benefits. I know they can net bill but that’s about as far I I know. Will need to do more research.
@@lennieadi you might as well challenge yourself to see beyond a black hole
If you are full, does this system feed leftover back to grid?
Do you have to use fused disconnect?
Also can you add the soft start to a well pump?
I have to ask...are you sponsored or in association with Sol-Ark? I am interested in the Sol-Ark 15Kw inverter as I am starting to plan a new house build and would like to incorporate hybrid solars system; on-grid, battery, and generator backup.
I am planning on doing a "behind the panel" system, but would like to do a solar shed. Are there issues with having a long CT wire run?
What does a setup like that cost?
Another great video!!! Just curious…if you are willing to share…how much do you charge for an install on a job like this?? Not equipment, just install. Much appreciated!!
Nice install.
so how long will it take The home owner the payoff the solar. that looks like it costs like 50k or more
What was the cost of just the batteries and the sol ark 15?
cab this setup work without batteries?
Nice job as usual!
Any issues with loading one sol ark leg too much over the other one? I heard you need to keep them balanced or you don't get near the rated power and overload error kicks in. There's a guy with a 12k that used an auto transformer to balance it to get full power
Your thoughts on eg4 18k?
Which 200A Service Rated Disconnect was used?
Have you done many jobs in Eastern Tennessee or do you prefer to stick close to home in Western SC?
Will this sol-ark 15k and some batteries make it possible to convert my grid-tied solar with enphase microinverters to offgrid solar? I'm really looking forward to it.
Yes, you would connect your enphase system to the gen input
That looks great!
Do you have to replace the 200amp breaker on the main panel with a lower rating (150amp) on this 15k setup? I didn't hear that if you did or not.
Scott, when you go back for a follow up, can you show us how the 15k is zeroing out the meter?
Meter, to 200A fused disconnect, to the 15K, to the main panel... done!