Author Topic: Expanding Solar Installation  (Read 1525 times)

msilenus

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Expanding Solar Installation
« on: October 14, 2016, 09:21:01 PM »
I'm contemplating a project to expand our existing solar array somewhat, but wouldn't be interested in upgrading our inverter to do it.  So I check the inverter manual:

Quote from: inverter manual
Max DC: 3250 W
Max Array Input: 3750 W
Max out: 3000 W
Peak Efficiency: 96.6%

Our panels that are plugged into it are currently rated for 2400 total wattage.  Putting those figures together, and taking them at face value, it looks like I could plug up to 700W more panel capacity into it, and expect the inverter to perform.  (3100W of input should come out as no more than 2994.6W based on the peak efficiency claim.)  I think it would also be a viable project at 600W or even 400W of additional capacity.

Am I missing something, or is this a sane project to consider?  My biggest concern is running an inverter at or close to capacity will tend to decrease its lifespan overmuch.  But I'm also very concerned about things I don't know I should be concerned about.