Solar edge inverter replacement

[kidsdad5]

I have had 4 solar edge inverters replaced under warranty in 6 years. It's now $500 each time because the warranty is parts only. I would like to get away from Solar Edge but I'm trying to understand if I am locked in with them due to the optimizers only working with Solar Edge inverters. Is there a suitable (easy that will work with the optimizers and reasonable $) replacement inverter for the Solar Edge SE7600H-US ?

If it matters, my system is a residential ground mount open rack 30 panels Trina 295W size 8.85KW.

Thanks

 

[solarken]

If you are an end user, you might want to try posting in diysolarforum.com. But to answer your question, you are locked in as long as you keep the optimizers, as the optimizers are part of the SolarEdge proprietary architecture and no other manufacturer makes an inverter that is compatible with them. Since you have a ground mount, it might be possible to reconfigure the array and replace the SolarEdge equipment with a string inverter, but it depends on the inverter location, the wiring, communication options, and other details. A good installer should be able to provide guidance and a quote. If the inverter is located outdoors, especially exposed to the sun, the failures may be minimized by relocating the inverter to a conditioned space, as there are power electronics in the inverter that can get stressed by repeated temperature cycling. At the very least, make sure the inverter is not exposed to direct sunlight, using some kind of shade cover that still permits air flow.

 

[kidsdad5]

If you are an end user, you might want to try posting in diysolarforum.com. But to answer your question, you are locked in as long as you keep the optimizers, as the optimizers are part of the SolarEdge proprietary architecture and no other manufacturer makes an inverter that is compatible with them. Since you have a ground mount, it might be possible to reconfigure the array and replace the SolarEdge equipment with a string inverter, but it depends on the inverter location, the wiring, communication options, and other details. A good installer should be able to provide guidance and a quote. If the inverter is located outdoors, especially exposed to the sun, the failures may be minimized by relocating the inverter to a conditioned space, as there are power electronics in the inverter that can get stressed by repeated temperature cycling. At the very least, make sure the inverter is not exposed to direct sunlight, using some kind of shade cover that still permits air flow.

Thanks for the reply. This is helpful information.

 

[Speedskater]

In the past SolarEdge optimizers have been a known source of interference.
And some SolarEdge installers don't follow good engineering practices.