Solar - 8kW Hybrid Inverter w/10kWh (upgraded to 20kWh in Sept. 2022) ESS/battery (not DIY)

[ExpatOilWorker]

39 minutes ago, Crossy said:

 

Good question, and one I thought about in the past. In the end we decided not to and our AVR is currently disconnected.

 

Just how low is "somewhat low", most hybrids are perfectly happy down to 185V or so at which point they disconnect from the grid and continue powering the loads from solar/batteries.

 

My main worry is that the AVR isn't designed with this mode in mind and the control system could become confused and do weird things.

 

Note that I didn't actually test this so what actually happens is unknown and is very likely variable with the type and manufacturer of the AVR.

 

If your supply is always very low you could consider a fixed boost auto-transformer, basically a manual voltage regulator, much lower cost than an AVR and no control system to become upset.

 

Personally, I wouldn't bother doing anything unless it becomes an actual issue.

Currently 167 V, but can at times drop below 160 V.

I already have the AVR, so my only worry is if there is any possibility the AVR and inverter will "fight" each other, possibly cause damage to either unit.

It is reassuring that the inverter simply just disconnect below 180 V and jumps to battery, but that creates a new problem. If the battery runs out, the inverter will switch to grid, potentially damaging pumps and other household equipment with low voltage. 

 

[Crossy]

Ouch!

 

If the inverter never goes into export, then I suspect things will be just fine as it's seen as just another load, but ...

 

I'm pretty sure the Deye can drive an external transfer switch, so you could run the AVR to that, and in the event of low battery the external ATS flips over and you get regulated power.

 

I would check with your solar installer what he recommends, then you have someone to blame if it all goes pear-shaped

 

[Muhendis]

3 hours ago, ExpatOilWorker said:

Currently 167 V, but can at times drop below 160 V.

Are you by any chance on a temporary supply?

If not then I would take those low voltage readings to PEA.

When we were on a temporary/construction supply we had similar problems with low voltage.

It was even worse if anyone decided to do a bit of welding in the village 1km away where our supply came from.

It was this that caused me to go solar.

We had to wait a few years until there was sufficient  customer demand for a transformer to be installed for supplying five houses.