• Ensure panels are not subjected to wind or snow loads in excess of
the maximum permissible loads and are not subjected to excessive
forces due to thermal expansion of the support structure.
• Evergreen Solar permits several different mounting methods. The
permissible mounting methods and maximum permissible wind
and snow loads are detailed in the Mounting Guide available from
Evergreen Solar (ETL listed version).
• For permission to use mounting methods not described in the
Mounting Guide (ETL listed version), please consult Evergreen Solar.
Failure to do so will void the warranty and panel certification.
• Always follow the mounting equipment vendors’ installation
instructions in addition to the instructions found in the Mounting
Guide (ETL listed version). In cases where the vendors’ instructions
are more stringent than those detailed in the Mounting Guide (ETL
listed version), the vendors’ instructions shall apply.
• In cases where the maximum permissible loading determined
by the mounting equipment vendor is less than the maximum
permissible load stated in the Mounting Guide (ETL listed version),
the maximum loads determined by the vendor should always be
used.
• The maximum permissible loads apply to uniformly distributed
wind or snow loading. Care should be taken to avoid mounting
panels in areas that are prone to drifting snow, icicle and/or ice
dam formation.
Operation and Maintenance
• No routine maintenance is required. However it is advisable
to perform periodic inspection of the panels for damage to
glass, back-skin, frame, junction box or external electrical
connections.
• Check electrical connections for loose connections and
corrosion.
• PV panels can operate effectively without ever being washed,
although removal of dirt from the front glass can increase output.
• Evergreen Solar panels use front glass with a wear resistant and
durable anti-reflection treatment designed to improve electrical
performance.
• Water can be used for regular washing or rinsing of the treated
front glass to remove dust, dirt or other deposits.
• To remove ingrained dirt, the treated glass can be washed with a
micro-fiber cloth and ethanol or a conventional glass cleanser.
• No aggressive and abrasive cleansers or chemicals should ever
be used on the treated front glass. No alkali based chemicals
should be used, including ammonia based solutions.
• Always wear rubber gloves for electrical insulation whilst
maintaining, washing or cleaning panels.
Underwriters Laboratories and Canadian Standards
ULC/ORD-C1703-01
Information
• Under normal conditions, a photovoltaic panel is likely to
experience conditions that produce more current and/or voltage
than reported at Standard Test Conditions. Accordingly, the
values of Isc and Voc marked on this panel should be multiplied
by a factor of 1.25 when determining component voltage ratings,
conductor capacities, fuse sizes, and size of controls connected
to the PV output.
• Refer to section 690-8 of the National Electric Code (NEC)
for additional multiplying factors of 125% (80% de-rating) which
may be applicable.
• Conductor recommendations: single conductor cable, type
USE-2 (non-conduit), 10 AWG minimum (6mm
2
minimum).
• For compliance with Canadian Standards ULC/ORD-C1703-1,
the installation shall be in accordance with CSA C22.1, Safety
Standard for Electrical Installations, Canadian Electrical Code,
Part 1.
Disclaimer of Liability
Since the use of this Safety, Installation and Operation Manual
and the conditions or methods of installation, operation, use and
maintenance of the panel are beyond Evergreen Solar control,
Evergreen Solar does not assume responsibility and expressly
disclaims liability for loss, damage, injury or expense arising out
of or in any connected with such installation, operation, use or
maintenance of the panel.
Evergreen Solar assumes no responsibility for any infringement of
patents or other rights of third parties that may result from use of
the panel. No license is granted by implication or otherwise under
any patent or patent rights.
The information in this Manual is based on Evergreen Solar
knowledge and experience and is believed to be reliable; but such
information including product specifications (without limitations)
and suggestions do not constitute a warranty, expressed or
implied. Evergreen Solar reserves the right to make changes to
the product, specifications or this Manual without prior notice.
Note: This document may be provided in multiple languages. If
there is a conflict among versions, the English language version
dominates.
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September 2008 / IM-ES-A_US_010908_ETL © 2008 Evergreen Solar, Inc.
ES-A Series Photovoltaic Panels
Safety, Installation and Operation Manual
