Re: [RE-wrenches] Outdoor rated flexible metal cable

2010-08-02 Thread benn kilburn
Peter, What you describe almost sounds like Teck Cable -- General Specifications & Standard Design Features - Teck Cable. Teck cable generally has an outer PVC covering that covers the flexible aluminum "armor', although i have seen it without the outer PVC jacket (aluminum exposed). This is

Re: [RE-wrenches] PV Modules Compatible with Concrete tile roofs

2010-09-02 Thread benn kilburn
Peter,I did a 15kW BIPV install on a home with GE Geko modules in two stages, first (7.7kW) in 2006, and second (7.33kW) in 2008. The 2006 modules were 55 W and the 2008 mods were 66 W. I wasn't too impressed with the quality of the GE modules and would prefer not to use them again, which is f

[RE-wrenches] Wiley Asset

2010-09-08 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, I'm looking at trying out another 'solar site evaluation tool', the ASSET (Acme Solar Site Evaluation Tool) from Wiley Electronics. I'm looking for feedback on its performance and user-ability.I have been using the pathfinder which is great, but not the pathfinder software. Any comme

Re: [RE-wrenches] Wiley Asset

2010-09-08 Thread benn kilburn
ice for a Pathfinder, and the software is much less than the Suneye, I believe. R. Walters r...@solarray.com Solar Engineer On Sep 8, 2010, at 3:46 PM, benn kilburn wrote: Wrenches, I'm looking at trying out another 'solar site evaluation tool', the ASSET (Acme Solar Sit

Re: [RE-wrenches] Wiley Asset

2010-09-12 Thread benn kilburn
e the entire module output by 50%. A shadow every day for the hours you are talking about sounds like a pretty serious issue. Kent Osterberg Blue Mountain Solar benn kilburn wrote: Thanks for the feed back guys, much appreciated! Now, how would you calculate f

Re: [RE-wrenches] The Demise of WEEB

2010-09-13 Thread benn kilburn
Hopefully any crew installing PV, and familiar with this debate (which they should be) can easily distinguish between the GBL-4 and the GBL-4DBT. The weight difference is quite noticeable. If it feels light for its size, it's aluminum, dont use it!!! If it has some distinct weight to it, the

[RE-wrenches] Accessable?

2010-09-15 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,There has been some mention on this list lately of locating Soladeck and/or other combiner boxes under arrays. This has me wondering if folks are doing this only for a cleaner looking roof array or if there are other reasonable intentions (lack of available roof space). Other than a c

Re: [RE-wrenches] Accessable?

2010-09-15 Thread benn kilburn
; structure or finish or not permanently closed in by the structure > > or finish of the building. > > > > > > > > - Andrew > > > > > > > > > > On Wed, Sep 15, 2010 at 3:15 AM, benn kilburn > <mailto:b...@daystarsolar.ca>> wro

[RE-wrenches] enphase D380

2010-09-23 Thread benn kilburn
wrenches,so i'm lining up a few installations using the newer Enphase D380 TwinPack microinverter and i'm just looking for any feedback or "heads-up's" before getting started. i'm not foreseeing any issues, it is looking fairly straight forward like the M190's but nonetheless, if any of you ha

[RE-wrenches] Solmetric PVA-600 PV Analyser

2010-09-26 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, Have any of you had the opportunity to try out the Solmetric PVA-600 PV Analyser yet? http://www​.solmetric​.com/pva60​0.htmIt appears to be a very useful tool for system commissioning. We are looking at picking one up and are looking for some early feedback. What other tools/equip

[RE-wrenches] lifting shingles

2010-10-07 Thread benn kilburn
salute, i was inspecting a (~3yr old) 2/12 pitch roof for an upcoming install that was going to have flashed roof connection points and noticed that i could not lift up any of the shingles for installing the flashing. the sealing strip that holds the upper shingle to the one below it, is aggres

Re: [RE-wrenches] enphase D380

2010-10-07 Thread benn kilburn
d of the single inverters, but until then, we'll probably stick with the singles. Bruce EricksonMendocino Solar ServicePO Box 1252Mendocino, CA 95460707-937-1701 On Sep 23, 2010, at 10:30 PM, benn kilburn wrote:wrenches,so i'm lining up a few installations using the newer Enphase D380 TwinP

Re: [RE-wrenches] lifting shingles

2010-10-07 Thread benn kilburn
tter plan my penetrations because after season in the sun I would never be able to lift the shingle again! That being said have you tried a hot knife? L feet seem like the way to go! Good luck! Bill On Oct 7, 2010 2:05 AM, "benn kilburn" wrote: > > salute, i was inspe

Re: [RE-wrenches] Power line shading

2010-10-11 Thread benn kilburn
Hey Eric,This was discussed somewhat back in early Sept under the subject line "Wiley Assett". This topic, with some great insight, should have been discussed under its' own subject line but My bad! benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY

[RE-wrenches] What is a solar installer...?

2010-10-14 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,a colleague of mine is looking for feedback to the following email he received regarding PV installers and electrical work. I have responded to him, however, I am quite interested to hear this list's response LETTER--'Colleague' - next week Alberta’s “major municipalities” electr

[RE-wrenches] FW: What is a solar installer...?

2010-10-17 Thread benn kilburn
targeted to the unlicensed inexperienced handyman who can't pull a permit for solar electric. Going back to the nest now! Jamie Johnson NABCEP Certified Solar PV Installer #031310-118 General Manager SOLAR POWER ELECTRIC EC13001765 (941)380-0098 Original Message Su

Re: [RE-wrenches] AC voltage in North America

2010-10-19 Thread benn kilburn
Darryl,thank you for that! i've often wondered myself where the 110/220 and other random voltages mentioned from time to time came from (as opposed to 120/240 which is all i've worked with in my electrical career). i've often assumed that the other numbers were grandfathered in from other syst

[RE-wrenches] Mounting Enphase when using S-5-PV Clamps

2010-10-20 Thread benn kilburn
Mornin, I'm looking at mounting an Enphase M190 system on a standing seam metal roof and was considering using the S-5-PV clamps (as opposed to just the S-5's and L-feet), which do not use any mounting rails. No rails means no where to properly mount the M190's!?!It was suggested to mount the

Re: [RE-wrenches] Mounting Enphase when using S-5-PV Clamps

2010-10-20 Thread benn kilburn
r use a string inverter. Bill. From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of benn kilburn Sent: Wednesday, October 20, 2010 8:07 AM To: Wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Mounting Enphase when using S-5-PV Clamps M

Re: [RE-wrenches] Mounting Enphase when using S-5-PV Clamps

2010-10-20 Thread benn kilburn
Not a lot of you guys in the field today 'eh? I was just checking a spec on my laptop and noticed i had a wireless signal and a mailbox full of great feedback, thanks again everyone!!! I'll go over all the details from everyone a little more when i'm done on site for the day. For a few of y

Re: [RE-wrenches] The perfect solar ready roof

2010-10-21 Thread benn kilburn
chris,don't forget to make sure that the existing roof structure is engineered to support the added weight of the extra layer of plywood, as well as the racking/modules. benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY > From: ch...@oasismontana.com > T

Re: [RE-wrenches] The perfect solar ready roof

2010-10-21 Thread benn kilburn
andrew,a few comments added to your last email... You Wrote If you ask me this is a dream scenario. The scary thing about S-5!s is that you rarely know how often the roofing panels are attached to the decking and how well the decking is attached to the framing. i'm not overly familiar with

Re: [RE-wrenches] Protection against birds

2010-10-25 Thread benn kilburn
Lee, I haven't had to use any of these bird repellent products, yet, but researching the issue in the past, i came across these Products (< link) I hope you find something useful.I also hear that an owl decoy strategically placed will deter birds from hanging around as well. Although an owl s

[RE-wrenches] Expected Life of DR2424

2010-11-02 Thread benn kilburn
G'day, I am re-locating a PV array and doing some system upgrades for a circa 2003 off-grid system that is using a Trace DR2424 (mfg 1stQ-2003). Just wondering what the expected lifespan of this model would be. I want to let the owner know how much longer they should reasonably expect this in

Re: [RE-wrenches] Expected Life of DR2424

2010-11-03 Thread benn kilburn
Everyone, Thanks for the feedback. Allan kinda nailed it with his first comment about the catch-22. A few stand-out factors aside, i guess it could fail tomorrow or in 30 years. The DR2424 is installed in a clean, dry, open area, although I never thought to ask if it was used in the construct

[RE-wrenches] Strawbale wall penetration

2010-11-19 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, Short of contacting the builder, i'm looking for your experiences, practices and "look-out's" for penetrating a strawbale exterior wall with conduit. For the project in question there is currently a teck cable from a wind gen entering the home by sharing a HRV vent opening that i want

Re: [RE-wrenches] Strawbale wall penetration

2010-11-20 Thread benn kilburn
ct: Re: [RE-wrenches] Strawbale wall penetration Would the walls of the bale house be considered part of the dwelling and require careful consideration of whether metallic conduit is REQUIRED on the DC run? 690.31 (E) -Glenn Burt From: re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrench

[RE-wrenches] GE warranty

2010-12-30 Thread benn kilburn
Do any of you have current contact info for anyone at GE Energy in regards to a module warranty issue? thanks,benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY ___ List

Re: [RE-wrenches] GE warranty

2011-01-02 Thread benn kilburn
Americas LLC 231 Lake Drive Newark, DE 19702, U.S.A. +1 (302) 451-7500 Phil Theis PennSun Solar On 12/30/2010 5:51 PM, benn kilburn wrote: Do any of you have

Re: [RE-wrenches] Reference PV System / snow removal

2011-01-04 Thread benn kilburn
Rob, Its great to see that the city is looking to come up with some local production 'standards' for PV system owners to gauge their own system production. To answer your direct questions... no, i'm not familiar with other PV reference systems, but i'll be on the look-out and i haven't in

Re: [RE-wrenches] WD-40 was cleaning modules

2011-01-05 Thread benn kilburn
Although there are several uses listed here that i will vouch for, i can always remember having a can or two around the place, i'm pretty sure that the "PS" at the bottom of the list is not correct. The msds states the main (basic?) ingredients as petroleum based. WD-40 Aerosol benn DayStar Re

Re: [RE-wrenches] Incompatible Metals

2011-01-14 Thread benn kilburn
Peter,i've been having the same concern running thru my head recently, as i've done this myself, and have compensated by now using a green jacketed bond (ground) wire for rail and module bonding. (fyi-bonding is the CEC term for inter-connecting all metallic parts of an electrical system, i.e.

Re: [RE-wrenches] Fluke meter recall

2011-01-19 Thread benn kilburn
wow, that was from back in May of 2009. I bought mine about 6-8 months ago, a 337, that is in fact affected by this recall. You'd a thunk it would/should have been pulled off the shelf.can't say that i noticed any voltage discrepancies, but then again, its not like i always test a circuit wit

[RE-wrenches] module / panel

2011-02-08 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenchers, Which term do you to describe a single framed unit with either a j-box or two wire leads on the back, module or panel? Which term do you believe to be correct and why? My interpretation is that a single framed unit is a module. Any number of modules attached to a single detached 'ra

Re: [RE-wrenches] module / panel

2011-02-08 Thread benn kilburn
t; I tend to think of an array as all of the modules on site. They added a definition for a subarray in the 2011 NEC; this is an electrical subset of an array. On 2/8/11 4:49 PM, "benn kilburn" wrote: Wrenchers, Which term do you to describe a single framed unit with e

Re: [RE-wrenches] Metal Roof Attachment

2011-02-14 Thread benn kilburn
Jason,In my experience with a roof like that there were purlins running horizontal to the trusses, so spacing L-feet to miss the ribs was not an issue. Unless you have visually confirmed the truss location it might be worth a more detailed look to see if there are purlins you can attach to. Th

[RE-wrenches] Listed/Approved Battery Box Vent Fan

2011-02-25 Thread benn kilburn
Good Afternoon Wrenches, In recommending for a client, the materials and plans for constructing a battery box for a 48V, 2400Ah battery, it came to my attention that the only battery box vent fan that i am aware of on the market (the Zeypher) is not UL listed, let alone approved for use in Cana

[RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

2011-03-24 Thread benn kilburn
I'm curious of others experiences with testing "new" batteries right from the mfgr, before putting them into service. I'm not talking about load testing, i mean just basics...voltage, specific gravity and electrolyte level. I recently received some batteries (24 x 2V) and before putting them to

Re: [RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

2011-03-24 Thread benn kilburn
If those readings are low, then contact the manufacturer with the data. I have had great luck with battery manufacturers warranting their defective batteries in warranty. Nick Soleil Project Manager Advanced Alternative Energy Solutions, LLC PO Box 657 Petaluma, CA 94953 Cell: 707-321-2937 Office: 707

Re: [RE-wrenches] Testing new batteries

2011-03-27 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,Follow up from the mfgr (Surrette) for new batteries, SG and electrolyte levels should level out after a few cycles and do not add water until after an initial charge. The "rise" of the low electrolyte levels can be 'surprising'.No comment on adding acid, or not. Had a great Satur

Re: [RE-wrenches] Tar and Gravel Roof Moint

2011-04-15 Thread benn kilburn
Eric, Locate a reputable roofer experienced with the roof type you are dealing with and sub them to install stand-offs for you, once you determine the array layout. This will save you alot of time and grief, and you will know that the job was done right. Unless you really want to learn the fi

[RE-wrenches] PV powered music festival

2011-04-27 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,I have been asked about sizing PV systems for a couple different music festivals that have been run solely off of generators in the past. The problem i'm having is determining the energy consumption of music/stage (amps, speakers, lights, etc...?) loads as well as concession. The org

Re: [RE-wrenches] PV powered music festival

2011-04-30 Thread benn kilburn
Wholy smokes, lots of experiences and great stories out there with this! I'm still going thru all the responses, coming up with how to best respond to the inquires. Careful consideration is definitely key otherwise the show could quickly turn into an "unplugged" festival.Finding out what size

Re: [RE-wrenches] Fwd: Hydrometer source

2011-05-16 Thread benn kilburn
Fella's,I'm using the Viper Model 5026 refractometer ... 5026 ... My brother who is a heavy duty mechanic ordered it for me a few years ago from his Mac Tool dealer after i was 'venting' about getting inaccurate readings from a hydrometer. Cost was about $80. Came with a hard plastic case tha

[RE-wrenches] Battery interconnect cable length

2011-06-06 Thread benn kilburn
Thanks for the feedback guys. Yeah, i suppose that in a single string, cable length is not as important as it would be for the paralleling cables. Ray, good point that if there are multiple parallel strings, then the series jumpers in one string should be equal length to the series jumpers in

[RE-wrenches] Battery Post Galling

2011-06-06 Thread benn kilburn
So this was a first for me today... I've had racking bolts gall before, but today while bolting a battery interconnect cable on a battery post, the nut galled about 3/4 of the way down the post. (Threaded 'bolt' posts, not single or double hole flag posts) I've gotten pretty good about using a

Re: [RE-wrenches] Battery Post Galling

2011-06-07 Thread benn kilburn
William,Luckily, the battery was new and under warranty and the mfgr, Surrette, was very helpful and immediately offered a replacement.Had this been out-of-warranty, then yeah, cutting the bolt/lug off would've been my best (only?) option. Still wondering about welding it in place? A battery s

Re: [RE-wrenches] SolarEdge v Enphase

2011-06-09 Thread benn kilburn
Mark,I thought that the SolarEdge reduced the 'string' voltage to 1V per unit/module, reducing the high DC voltage risk factor, until the inverter switch was turned on? The fact that by hitting the "off" switch on the inverter will reduce the potentially high DC voltage to 1V per unit/module co

Re: [RE-wrenches] Ballpark Cost/Watt

2011-06-10 Thread benn kilburn
William is right, there is another list that is suited for these questions. Ask Michael about it. benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. benn@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY Date: Fri, 10 Jun 2011 14:13:03 -0700 To: re-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org From: will...@millersolar.com

Re: [RE-wrenches] Interesting Dust Issue

2011-06-14 Thread benn kilburn
Max, fine powdery material? It could very well be a pollen/dust issue, and as you suggest it could accumulate twofold, on the roof as well as the PV array. As for it only running off on the one side perhaps the wind is predominately from the south and the two surfaces are catching mos

[RE-wrenches] Gunk in lead acid batteries

2011-08-22 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,I have a client with a newer (March '11) set of lead acid batteries (24 x 2V = 48V bank) that has a reoccurring 'problem' that i haven't seen or heard of before, i'm wondering if any of you have??? There is a very sticky, gooey, grey metallic like gunk floating on top of the electrolyt

[RE-wrenches] Re-shingling roof

2011-10-11 Thread benn kilburn
Hey Wrenches, I know it has been discussed on this list, but i'm not having any luck finding any threads on how to deal with re-shingling an asphalt shingle roof with a PV array already on it. I have a potential client who is asking (somewhat concerned) about this scenario and i'm loo

Re: [RE-wrenches] Re-shingling roof - Added "life cost"?

2011-10-19 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, So a follow/add-on up to the last post. So do any of you add the cost of labour for removing and replacing a roof top array, to be included in the "life cost" of a PV system, since it is reasonable to assume that a well installed array will outlast any asphalt shingle roof, and re

Re: [RE-wrenches] Sharp 62 Watt Shingle Installation Info needed

2011-11-06 Thread benn kilburn
David,Sorry, a bit slow on the reply. A few years ago I installed about 15kW of the GE Geko modules which are similar to these ones. I believe the Geko's were 55W and 65W. I worked closely with the roofer who was installing the cement roof tiles. He would lay out the bottom row or two of cem

[RE-wrenches] Looking for a Hanwha Q.Cell

2018-02-01 Thread Benn Kilburn
Hey Wrenches, We are looking for a single Hanwha Q.Peak-G4.1/SC 305W If anyone has a lead for me please respond off-list. Mucho thanks!!! Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches

Re: [RE-wrenches] 3-Phase SolarEdge L-L 215v

2018-02-13 Thread Benn Kilburn
Sounds like you are working with a 120/208V system? What do you get from line to ground? Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Feb 13, 2018, at 9:53 AM, Eric Stikes wrote: > > I am troubleshooting a SolarEdge system with 9kW 3-Ph inverters. The system > is working OK but p

Re: [RE-wrenches] rail less standing seam attachments

2018-04-02 Thread Benn Kilburn
Ray, I believe S5! offers an approved roof anchor that attaches to standing seams. A bit pricy (few hundred, I think) especially considering they are one per person but sometimes that's the cost of safety. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Mar 31, 2018, at 11:19 AM, Ra

Re: [RE-wrenches] Looking for insulated #6 bare standoff

2018-04-18 Thread Benn Kilburn
Dana, Why does it have to be bare copper? Can you not use a green insulated #6? Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Apr 18, 2018, at 10:59 AM, Dave Angelini Offgrid Solar > wrote: > > Why is it #6? Usually the solar panels wire size determine Array Teks size > for th

Re: [RE-wrenches] Squirrel Guards for Solarworld 2.0 Frames

2018-05-08 Thread Benn Kilburn
We've used the Solatrim on one larger system. Installed it fall of '17. Time will tell if the adhesive can withstand our temperatures swings of 30degC to -40degC Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On May 8, 2018, at 9:50 AM, Nik Ponzio, Building Energy > wrote: >

Re: [RE-wrenches] Ilsco Insulated Tap Connectors

2018-06-07 Thread Benn Kilburn
I'll x2 what Ray saysunless it specifies AC or DC then the voltage rating applies to either. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jun 2, 2018, at 11:10 AM, Ray wrote: > > I pulled up the Ilsco site. They are rated to 600 volts. That voltage is AC >

Re: [RE-wrenches] grounding on metal roofs

2018-06-18 Thread Benn Kilburn
Glenn, Would you Bond/ground every metal pan or only the ones beneath the array? Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jun 17, 2018, at 11:46 AM, "glenn.b...@glbcc.com" > wrote: > > We use the Ilsco SGB-4 ground lug on every pan under the array for > residen

[RE-wrenches] Removing graffiti from modules

2018-09-09 Thread Benn Kilburn
Hey everyone, Do any of you have experience removing graffiti from solar modules? Any tips for do’s and dont’s? Thanks Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 ___ List sponsored by Redwood Alliance List Address: RE-wrenches@lists.re-wrenches.org

Re: [RE-wrenches] Removing graffiti from modules

2018-09-09 Thread Benn Kilburn
mention using a mild soap. I’m going to see what Canadian Solar suggests but this group is always worth checking with. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Sep 9, 2018, at 9:32 AM, frenergy wrote: > > Help us with this Benn. Are we talking spray paint, airgun, acryli

Re: [RE-wrenches] Removing graffiti from modules

2018-09-10 Thread Benn Kilburn
Yeah, there is plenty more on the wall beside the array and on other walls/signs of the business. This is just what they did to the solar modules. Ray, no i don't believe the owner has tried anything, yet. <http://www.skyfireenergy.com> Benn Kilburn CSA Certified Solar Photovolt

Re: [RE-wrenches] Raised racking system

2018-09-19 Thread Benn Kilburn
If budget and engineering allows, get I-beams cut to 3’ lengths with a plate welded on either end and bolt them down to the concrete roof? Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Sep 19, 2018, at 11:08 AM, Chris Mason > wrote: > > I'm quoting a job on a concrete roo

Re: [RE-wrenches] Cutting rail

2019-06-13 Thread Benn Kilburn
metal sawblades and when drilling into metal especially using a Uni bit. Tell everyone on the crew to get them selves a small used tin and keep some of this handy. A tube of this should last years. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jun 12, 2019, at 10:36 PM, frenergy wrote: >

Re: [RE-wrenches] Damaged in shipping

2019-07-02 Thread Benn Kilburn
Dave, If you are not alreadyMake sure you keep communication with them open about the issue during this time...so you don’t spring the issue on them if/when it drags out being resolved. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jul 2, 2019, at 2:26 PM, Dave Tedeyan wrote: >

Re: [RE-wrenches] Ground Mount with cable anchors

2019-09-10 Thread Benn Kilburn
l array/rack to shift and move, as i have seen on the 80kW system. <http://www.skyfireenergy.com> Benn Kilburn CSA Certified Solar Photovoltaic Systems Electrician, SkyFire Energy Inc Employee Owner 14515 - 121A Ave NW | Edmonton, AB | T5L 2T2 Direct: 780-784-1706 | Office: 780-474-89

Re: [RE-wrenches] Tripping gfi

2020-01-15 Thread Benn Kilburn
This may, or may not provide some helpful info https://www.electricianinformationresource.com/dc-circuit-breakers.html?fbclid=IwAR0iQzT58cgAbBEcbtg2N_ETDV5qkC31Qz7_py83pgaoLm_l0ZPGNAmN2KQ Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jan 14, 2020, at 7:03 PM, Mac Lewis wrote: >

Re: [RE-wrenches] Direct solar options for stock tank de icing

2020-02-11 Thread Benn Kilburn
energy. I often come across this idea... typically after a cold snap and I see my electric bill (we have a few electric water heaters for animals)... I’m just not set up to put my water tank in a sunny spot right now. https://www.motherearthnews.com/diy/tools/solar-stock-tank-zmaz10onzraw Benn

Re: [RE-wrenches] Disconnect spacing

2020-03-11 Thread Benn Kilburn
Looks fine to me, Jason. Did you ask him to cite a particular code rule? Only other issue would be is if either of those pieces requires more space in their install instructions/Mfgr specs. Good luck Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Mar 11, 2020, at 10:18 AM, Jason Szumlan

Re: [RE-wrenches] White wire for DC- after ground fault breaker

2020-06-15 Thread Benn Kilburn
James, where is the CT located? If it’s in a panelboard/loadcenter, I understand that they are not “certified” to allow CT’s inside so the work-around is to pass the conductors thru a jbox before the panelboard and locate the CTs there. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On

Re: [RE-wrenches] MLPE Mapping

2020-07-08 Thread Benn Kilburn
a reminder before any mods make it to the roof. Benn Kilburn SkyFire Energy 780-906-7807 > On Jul 8, 2020, at 12:18 PM, Kirk Herander wrote: > > We scan the barcodes with a smart phone app which automatically creates an > excel file for upload(there are many apps to choose from)

[RE-wrenches] Onan / AGS

2009-10-30 Thread benn kilburn
Hello Wrenches, I am in need of the assistance of a seasoned Onan teck or Wrench who can provide me with the correct info for connecting a Magnum Energy AGS to an Onan propane generator, Model# 12GSAA - 6707A. Magnums' current information is out of date in regards to this Onan model. This is

[RE-wrenches] Report-Guidelines for Roof-mounted PV System Installations

2009-11-02 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches,Just an FYI. I just had a chat with someone at the National Roofing Contractors Assoc. and they made me aware of this report they just released.http://www.nrca.net/rp/pubstore/details.aspx?c=12&id=526 Apparently this report concludes that PV arrays being installed on a homes' roof sho

[RE-wrenches] Aluminum Lay-In Lugs

2009-12-03 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, I have heard conflicting information regarding the use of aluminum lay-in lugs for bonding module frames and racking. Would anyone care to comment on the use of aluminum, copper or tin plated lugs. Which ones are best? For what reason should a particular type be avoided? (eg. dissim

[RE-wrenches] Outback FM80's connected to Hub

2010-01-04 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, I have just set up an off grid system for a client and am now weighing out the pros and cons of connecting the two FM80's to the Hub or leaving them charging the battery independently. The system consists of an FW1000 with two stacked VFX3648's. The two FM80's are mounted under the

[RE-wrenches] Outback FM80's connected to Hub

2010-01-05 Thread benn kilburn
Thanks for your comments. Since there don't seem to be any down-sides, and a few up-sides, it does seem to make good sense to have the two controllers connected to the rest of the system via the Hub. I'll get that done when i install the FlexNet. Cheers,benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. www.d

[RE-wrenches] Sunteck SolarBlend

2010-02-23 Thread benn kilburn
Hi All, Just wondering if anyone out there has had any BIPV installs using Sunteck's SolarBlend modules? I have an upcoming project that i will be using these Sunteck modules for and am looking for any issues (good/bad) that anyone else may have experienced with them and would be willing to sh

[RE-wrenches] Permit Cost/Cost of Installation

2010-03-08 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, I have been hearing differences in opinions/interpretations when it comes to filling out electrical permit applications for grid-tie PV systems and you come to the line that asks for "Cost of Installation (Labor plus Material)", which determines the cost of the permit. I have been in

Re: [RE-wrenches] RE-wrenches Digest, Vol 3, Issue 227

2010-03-15 Thread benn kilburn
Thanks Rebecca, I asked my local inspection office if when a contractor is installing a home's back-up generator, if the cost of the generator is included in the cost of the permit. The answer was no. The permit cost is based on the cost of labor and materials to install the generator. I did

[RE-wrenches] Off-Grid Diesel Generators

2010-04-12 Thread benn kilburn
Wrenches, Can anyone in the off-grid market, in colder climate regions (i'm at latitude 53) suggest or recommend a reliable diesel generator for off-gird home back-up. It will likely be coupled with two Outback VFX3648's and a 1500 to 2500 amp/hr battery. Any experiences with pairing Lister g

Re: [RE-wrenches] Off-Grid Diesel Generators

2010-04-12 Thread benn kilburn
e-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org [mailto:re-wrenches-boun...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of benn kilburn Sent: Monday, April 12, 2010 12:36 PM To: Wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Off-Grid Diesel Generators Wrenches, Can anyone in the off-grid market, in colder climate

Re: [RE-wrenches] Off-Grid Diesel Generators

2010-04-12 Thread benn kilburn
Daryl,The customer specified that he would like a diesel gen. I haven't tried to sway him towards propane yet, but we are still refining his load calculations and the site will likely not be ready for the install for a few months at least. I also like the fact that there is typically already p

Re: [RE-wrenches] OSHA Training for Proper Rigging Tips/Tricks?

2010-04-22 Thread benn kilburn
Ryan,If it can be arranged, its not a bad idea to have a roof anchor installed with a new roof. Then it can be left for future check-ups and any roof work. If the homeowner is fussy about the aesthetics then tell them you can paint it to match the roof when your done, it will hardly be notice

Re: [RE-wrenches] Roof anchors and proper rigging

2010-04-23 Thread benn kilburn
Rebecca, All Wrenches, I think it would be great to hear some feedback from other roof-dwelling Wrenches; past and present; on this issue. Aside from any obvious electrical hazards from installing PV (which are much easier to control), the actual 'roof work' is the biggest safety issue that ne

Re: [RE-wrenches] direct grid micro inverters?

2010-04-26 Thread benn kilburn
Greg, not sure about the direct grid inverters, but i do know that the Enphase M190's are rated from -40˚C to +65˚C.Benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:This email, including any attachments, contains information from

[RE-wrenches] Soladeck Enclosure/Combiner Approved for Canada

2010-04-30 Thread benn kilburn
Hi Wrenches, I'm looking for a source for the SolaDeck roof mount combiner boxes that are approved for use in Canada. I am doing a roof-top wire entry on an asphalt shingle roof. I have used a flashed masthead to a j-box in the attic before but that will not work in this scenario. Any suggesti

Re: [RE-wrenches] Corrugated roofing attachments

2010-05-03 Thread benn kilburn
I have no experience with this product, however i sure could have used them for the last project i did with this type of roof. Question: What if the truss is not directly under the 'bump' in the roof? My understanding is that the roof decking alone is not adequate enuf (pull-out strength) to

[RE-wrenches] Enphase System Labeling

2010-05-14 Thread benn kilburn
wrenches, i'm having the lamacoid labels made up for an enphase system that i am installing and i am going with a 'rating' label on the load center which states; Solar PV System RatingArray Rating: 660 WDCModule Rating (each): 220WDC also a 'warning parallel system' which will also go on the load

Re: [RE-wrenches] Enphase System Labeling

2010-05-19 Thread benn kilburn
Thanks for sharing that Dana, Are you required by code or the AHJ, for micro-inverter systems, to have an additional AC d/c aside from the branch circuit breaker? (on the roof or other location) For these micro-inverter systems the only labeling required here, by code (CEC), is;84-030 (1) which

Re: [RE-wrenches] 30-year old PV module

2010-05-24 Thread benn kilburn
Great info Joel, thanks! are cell and glass thickness somehow encoded into a modules' spec sheet? or do you have to dig deeper and hope to get a reply from a mfg? benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY From: joel.david...@sbcglobal.net To: re-wrenc

[RE-wrenches] Additional Battery Charger

2010-06-17 Thread benn kilburn
G'day Wrenches, I'm looking for an additional charger(s) to increase the charging capacity from the back-up 12 kW Onan generator into the 1200 Ah battery. Right now the generator's full potential output is limited by the charging capacity of the two VFX3648's which have a max charge output of

Re: [RE-wrenches] Additional Battery Charger

2010-06-18 Thread benn kilburn
...@lists.re-wrenches.org] On Behalf Of benn kilburn Sent: Thursday, June 17, 2010 7:22 PM To: Wrenches Subject: [RE-wrenches] Additional Battery Charger G'day Wrenches, I'm looking for an additional charger(s) to increase the charging capacity from the back-up 12

Re: [RE-wrenches] attaching to roof decking - Foam Insulation Install

2010-07-19 Thread benn kilburn
after a few requests, i have not been getting any feedback from Direct Power regarding pull out specs for their 'easy feet', which i need for my engineer to be able to give me the go-ahead to use them.does anyone care to comment on the fact that this mounting method only attaches to the roof de

Re: [RE-wrenches] Load Center

2010-07-20 Thread benn kilburn
phil,by load center, are you referring to the distribution panel?benn DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. b...@daystarsolar.ca780-906-7807 HAVE A SUNNY DAY CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE:This email, including any attachments, contains information from DayStar Renewable Energy Inc. and/or its affiliates

[RE-wrenches] Arcing from inside Trace DR2412

2014-03-27 Thread Benn Kilburn
Wrenches, An off-gridded (system installed by others) called me yesterday with a concern. His system is older and has had mods added over the years. It is up to 7x Siemens SP75 and 1x She'll SQ80P. I believe the inverter is the original. It is a Trace DR2412, and where the concern stems from

Re: [RE-wrenches] Arcing from inside Trace DR2412

2014-03-28 Thread Benn Kilburn
rgy, Inc. > A Certified B CorporationTM > 3209 Richards Lane > Santa Fe, New Mexico 87507 > 505 424-1112 office 780-2738 cell > www.positiveenergysolar.com > Steve Higgins > Technical Services Manager > M: +1.206.790.5840 > F: +1.902.597.8447 > Surrette Battery Company > Excl

Re: [RE-wrenches] 600 v pv lead separation

2014-04-07 Thread Benn Kilburn
I would have to agree with Brian. That makes sense. William, is it causing any grief or are you simply curious? benn Sent from a 'smart' phone, with touch screen keys. Please excuse shortcuts and typos. > On Apr 7, 2014, at 12:45 PM, Brian Mehalic wrote: > > I don't know, but maybe it's a p

Re: [RE-wrenches] Flashing vs Sealant... again (is sealant code defensible?)

2014-04-11 Thread Benn Kilburn
I would have to definitely lean towards using flashings as a default and have been doing so now for several years. Last project i wanted to use flashings on and couldn't was in 2010. I couldn't because it was a 10-13 deg slope with asphalt shingles that were really good quality and made for low s

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