Tech Help

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  1. Splicing Enphase string cable

    Asked 11/12/2012

    I need to modify an Enphase micro inverter string cable.

    Question – 5 comments

  2. Is it acceptable for solar panels to extend beyond the ridge of a sloped roof?

    Asked 10/31/2012

    Question – 2 comments

  3. How do I adjust for voids on a roof?

    Asked 09/18/2012

    I have an older structure that has a roof where the truss based roof is not completely flat in areas.  I haven't taken any measuremen

    Question – 1 comment

  4. How do I install and flash a standoff on a asphalt roof?

    Asked 09/17/2012

    Hi All, I'm using standoffs to fasten a Ironridge rail system to a asphalt roof (3 tab) But not being a prof.

    Question – 2 comments

  5. New to solar installation, need guidance with component selection

    Asked 09/12/2012

    So I have a collection of panels, inverters, racking and wiring to rack jboxes. After that then what?

    Question – 2 comments

  6. How do I connect a Fronius inverter to the web for monitoring?

    Asked 09/12/2012

    I would like to connect a Fronius IG Plus 7.5 to the web for monitoring. There seem to be many different networking options offered.

    Question – 1 comment

  7. For an existing grid-tied PV system, does Civic Solar have a retrofit for standby operation when the grid goes down?

    Asked 09/11/2012

    Most grid-tied systems are for net metering.  But when the grid is down, there is no power reference, and the inverters don't work. 

    Question – 2 comments

  8. How do I calculate Vtoc/Vtmp for a string sizing using the Outback charge controller tool?

    Asked 08/21/2012

    Question – 1 comment

  9. What are your options for backfeeding an electrical system that is fed with 3 phase 120/240volt containing a 240 volt hi leg on?

    Asked 08/13/2012

    The panel we will have to back feed off of the inverter has a 240 volt hi leg on the B phase.

    Question – 1 comment

  10. What is the difference between PV wire and USE-2 solar wire?

    Asked 07/18/2012

    I am thinking about using one of the new transformerless inverters, either the Astronergy / Chint Power inverters or the KACO New Energy i

    Question – 1 comment

  11. What is the best way to waterproof penetrations of a metal roof?

    Asked 07/18/2012

    We're working on a project with a standing seam roof, but we're concerned that the roof panels' attachment to the roof itse

    Question – 1 comment

  12. Why is wire size so important?

    Asked 05/25/2012

    Question – 3 comments

  13. Does a MC4 or Amphenol connector work with 8 AWG size wire?

    Asked 05/23/2012

    I want to use 8 AWG size wire for a solar install and I wondering if I can use MC4 or Amphenol connectors to connect to the size #8 wire? 

    Question – 1 comment

  14. Is it normal for a solar DC brushless pump to show continuity between its 3 cables when disconnected from the controller?

    Asked 03/13/2012

    I may well be needing a new solar direct pump but I don't know just yet, that's where you come in.

    Question – 1 comment

  15. Do your products accommodate uplifts for wind loads of 147mph?

    Asked 12/15/2011

    We are a government agency trying to promote PV installations in So.

    Question – 1 comment

  16. I have a Fronius inverter. Can I add an Enphase system to another available 2-pole breaker without causing problems?

    Asked 12/06/2011

    If grid power isn't available, my Fronius shuts down.  Does the Enphase shut down as well?  If so, I don't see any conflicts if

    Question – 1 comment

  17. Do I need to specify WEEB-UMC for Unirac rails and clamps?

    Asked 11/18/2011

    Question – 1 comment

  18. Why the neutral current is zero in WYE configuration in balanced load while it is unbalanced?

    Asked 11/16/2011

    Why the neutral current is zero in WYE configuration in balanced load while it gives some value of current in unbalanced load?

    Question – 2 comments

  19. Is there a means of providing a DC disconnect for multiple strings without combining them?

    Asked 11/14/2011

    Hello, I have an installation with two series strings.

    Question – 1 comment

  20. What is the best way to ground Unirac Sunframe racking systems?

    Asked 11/10/2011

    Products

    Question – 1 comment

  21. What is the best way to configure 3 strings of 12 panels to combiner box? Keep all leads short as possible or group panels to mim. shade?

    Asked 11/10/2011

    Here are the options I am considering: Option 1 - Minimize all leads both positive and negative to combiner box.

    Question – 9 comments

  22. What's the correct way to waterproof the Quickmount flashings?

    Asked 11/07/2011

    Question – 1 comment

  23. Can S-5-S clamps incorporate a standoff to clear 4" high attic vents?

    Asked 11/02/2011

    Looking to install a system on a standing metal seam roof that has attic vents. Ideally, we want to install over those vents.

    Question – 1 comment

  24. Do the SMK connectors on the new Sharps work with Enphase M215s?

    Asked 10/24/2011

    Products

    Question – 1 comment

  25. Does anyone know where I can find a computer program for calculating the size of a solar PV system?

    Asked 10/19/2011

    System sizing

    Question – 3 comments