PVI 3000/4000/5000/5300
Installation
and Operation Manual
9
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 into de-rating due to
excessively high inverter case temperature.
In hot climates, the housing and heat sink can reach 160
o
F (70
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 47-60 lbs. (21.4-27.3kg) depending on model. Be sure method used for fastening the unit to
the wall will safely hold this weight.
The ambient temperature must be between
–13
o
F (–25
o
C) and +131
o
F (+55
o
C) for full continuous, full power operation.
(The inverter will automatically reduce power or shut down to protect itself if the ambient air temperature rises above
131
o
F (55
o
C).) Humidity shall be within 0% and 95%.
The National Electrical Code (NEC) requires that the inverter be connected to a dedicated AC circuit and no other AC
outlets or device may be connected to this circuit. See NEC Section 690.64. The NEC also imposes limitations on the
size of the inverter and the manner in with it is connected to the utility grid. See NEC Section 690.64.
The cooling air enters at the bottom of the heat sink and exhausts at the top of the unit. See diagrams below for
recommended clearances for cooling air and space around the inverter.
If you are installing the inverter in a utility vault or electrical closet, the air circulation must be sufficient for heat
dissipation – provide external ventilation, to maintain an ambient condition of less than 131
o
F (55
o
C). The ambient
temperature should be kept as low as possible.
Use the dimensional diagrams below for correct mounting of the inverter.
PVI 3000/PVI 4000 DIMENSIONAL DIAGRAM
174.2
94
45
125
250
70
19
0
145.5
73
2
454
17.75”
28.82”
5.75”
6.88”
9.88”
4.94”
3.7”
1.75”
2.75”
7.5”
