August 3, 2019 13
10. Connecting a Portable Backup Generator (240V only)
a. Generators smaller than 10kW - See page 11
i. Connect the generator output to the “Gen” input breaker in the Sol-Ark 8K user panel.
ii. Only 240V generators are supported.
iii. If Off-Grid connect the generator output to the “Grid” input in the Sol-Ark and select the
“GEN connected to Grid input” option in the Sell Control tab of the Grid Setup Menu.
1. Home Screen → Gear Icon → Grid Setup → Sell Control
b. Standby Generators >10kW - See page 12
i. If Off-Grid, you may connect the generator output directly to the “Grid” input on the
Sol-Ark 8K. The Sol-Ark 8K will perceive the generator as if it were the grid. You will need
to select the “GEN connected to Grid input” option in the Sell Control tab of the Grid
Setup Menu.
1. Home Screen → Gear Icon → Grid Setup → Sell Control
ii. Being Off-Grid, you will have “Grid Sell Off” and without the need for current limiting
sensors.
iii. Under “Grid Setup” do the following:
1. Select “Limited to Load”
2. Select “General Standard”
3. Increase Grid frequency range: 53-65Hz
iv. “Limited To Home” mode works well with generators.
If using a large generator with a whole home transfer switch, we suggest not using the
“Gen” input breakers in the Sol-Ark. Instead, use the existing home wiring to distribute
the generator’s power (through your existing “Gen” transfer switch, usually to the main
panel in the home or building).
11. Sensor and Accessory Placement
a. Limiter Sensors
i. Install on incoming electrical service wires on L1 and
L2 (see diagram pg. 11). Required if selling power to
whole home.
b. Battery Temp Sensor
i. Place between batteries (See Fig. F). Note: Temp
sensor is not required for lithium batteries.
c. CanBus & RS485
i. In order to connect batteries to the Sol-Ark 8K via RJ45, you will need to splice the end
that connects to the Sol-Ark 8K. Use the middle two conductors.
d. Gen Start Signal
i. Normally open relay that closes when the Gen Start state is active
ii. If your generator only starts with the loss of 120/240V to the generator, we suggest
using a DPST relay to the output of the inverter.
e. PV Rapid Shutdown Signal
i. 12v signal/200mA power is present until the Sol-Ark is shut down with the front button
f. WI-FI Antenna
i. Only needed for remote monitoring or software updates.
To Next Page
Loading...
