Correctly identifying labelled warnings as part of your installation
When you ask Ohmtek to install a solar system for you, one immediately thinks that once the hardware has been installed and you have the sun's power in your home, this is it, job done. This is not how Ohmtek works.
We ensure that right to the end the job is done perfectly, including small little labels placed where required by law. Many installers simply ignore this important aspect, and the results can be fatal. As the saying goes, the job is not finished until the paperwork is done. Have a look at the photos below. These photos were taken from a recent installation. The owner was extremely impressed with the detail that went into the installation and it was money well spent. So far, the system has operated perfectly.
First look
The outside of the DB is labelled, showing that a solar installation is installed. It is clearly marked that when powering down the incoming electricity supply, it has to be done on both the Solar Main and the Main Switch. It also indicates that the essential circuits are on the inverter feed.
Opening the DB
The various circuits are clearly marked. This is essential so that you can ensure the correct circuit is switched off the the event of a problem. Note labelling in red, which are critical elements. At all times it is preferred that the entire feed be switched off, even if you only intend working on a specific circuit.
Overall warnings
Note the indication that the essential circuits are fed from the solar main in the AC control box. This is essential as in many cases the distribution board may be located in a different area than the solar control boxes. Do not forget about them, as they may be out of sight.
Solar Control AC Box
Moving to the actual solar control units, note the labelling of the solar control AC box. The warnings could not be clearer, and everything is properly marked. While the focus is on a maintenance-free installation, owners should familiarise themselves with the various parts of the system.
Solar Combiner DC Box
The wording on the labelling may differ depending on the manufacturer (with Sunsynk shown here) but it is clear: it will be live during day hours. Even after sunset your panels may still produce power. Under no circumstances should you tamper with any of these items.
Fuse Switch Disconnector
The wording on the labelling may differ depending on the manufacturer (with Volta shown here). If you need to power off the system, the batteries need to be disconnected. Note the warning that the lever should be pushed down quickly. Note the label in the middle: Battery Fuse Disconnect.
Live DC Cable Warning
It is easy to overlook this. Note what it says – you are not to disconnect DC plugs that are under load. The AC and CD isolators must be turned off first. In addition, the cabling runs in properly isolated trunking. There is no need to ever open any trunking. It works. Do not tamper with it.
VDC Warning
Various parts of the system are labelled for your information. In the photo shown here, a simple label indicates the VDC (Volts Direct Current) warning and the maximum voltage the system will carry. This is indicated for each of the batteries used in the system. If this is not indicated, the CoC cannot be issued.
Once all of the labelling has been done, the system will be tested one more time, using a set of procedures. If the system passes all of these tests, the certificate of compliance will be issued. This is a vital document and will be required by your insurance company.
What to do next
If you are planning a major change to your home, let us take care of the electrical component.
Call us today