PVI 1800/PVI 2500
Installation and Operation Manual
10
Notes regarding mounting and placement of the inverter
Criteria for device mounting:
•
Because the inverter is in a NEMA4/IP65 sealed enclosure, the inverter can be mounted outdoors.
•
The very longest life for the inverter can be achieved by mounting it in a clean, dry and cool location
even given the unit’s robust construction and design for efficient coolin g. It is recommended to keep
the unit out of direct rain.
•
For optimal electrical efficiency, use the shortest possible AC and DC wires and use the maximum
allowable wire size. (10AWG minimum is recommended for all connections, both AC and DC.)
•
Avoid ins tallation in close proximity to people or animals, as there is a small amount of high-
frequency switching noise.
•
Install the inverter in an accessible location following NEC and local codes. Note NEC requirements
for disconnect door clearances and proximity to other equipment and building walls.
•
Although not required, installation at eye-height allows easy reading of the indicator LEDs and the
LCD display.
•
For optimal inverter life and performance, do not mount the inverter in direct sunlight, especially in
hot climates, although the inverter is designed to function at full power continuously in up to 131
o
F
(55
o
C) ambient temperatures. In hot climates if the unit must be mounted in direct sunlight a silver
or white metal sun-shield is highly recommended. It is recommended that the inverter be mounted on
the north (or east) side of buildings or on the north side of a PV array (which can provide some
shade). Following these guidelines can help prevent the unit from going automatic into de-rating due
to excessively high inverter case temperature.
•
In hot climates, the housing and heat sink can reach 176
o
F (80
o
C) and must be mounted on an
appropriate material for this temperature as well as one that meets NEC and local codes. The inverter
should not be mounted where people are likely to touch the case or heat sink due to the high potential
temperature.
CAUTION:
Please follow these guidelines:
•
The inverter weight is about 35 lbs. (16kg). Be sure method used for fastening the unit to the wall
will safely hold this weight.
