PV General Installation
Ergosun Installation Disclaimer – The following information is not to be treated as installation instructions or guidance, rather the following particulars are intended for general informational purposes only.
WARNING:
To avoid risk of electric shock, fire, injury, or death.
ELECTRICAL PRECAUTIONS
Solar roof tiles when exposed to direct sunlight create DC energy.
Cover the surface of the module with a nonpermeable covering when installing to avoid unwanted energy generation. Shock hazard increases as more solar tiles are connected in parallel strings.
When modules are connected, they will produce a higher voltage.
Never exceed local jurisdiction maximum voltage per array.
Tile series and voltage should be per-mitted and reviewed before connecting.
Work only in dry conditions with proper safety gear.
Wear gloves, guards, and nonconductible clothing.
Only use tools that are permitted to use with electrical currents when handling electricity.
Always wear rubber insulating gloves rated for the appropriate voltage level, as well as suitable eye and head protection when working with/near live electrical equipment.
Always have a cell phone or other means of contact available to you in case of emergency.
Never connect Ergosun Solar Roof Tiles to other solar power generating products.
Never install a broken or damaged tile. Contact the SUPPLIER directly to receive a replacement.
Do not carry a module by its MC4 wiring or junction box.
Please refer to section 690.8 of the National Electric Code (NEC) for more guidelines
https://www.electricallicenserenewal.com/Electrical-Continuing-Education-Courses/NEC-Content.php?sectionID=378.0
ENGINEERING PRECAUTIONS
Ensure that the structural integrity of the roof has been approved to hold the weight of a concrete roof tile system.
Always secure roof tiles to battens per TRI recommended fastening method.
Never move multiple tiles connected to each other.
Always unplug and shut down power to a string before maintenance. Avoid damage to the module’s top surface by handling it with care.
If a module must be laid face down, do so on a non-abrasive surface.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s authority to operate the equipment.
Do not attempt installation during conditions of extreme weather such as rain, snow, ice, or high winds.
Do not drill holes or cut into a module or tile. Avoid exerting excessive pressure on tiles. If you must walk on solar tiles, review how to correctly walk on concrete roofs prior.
Do not use chemicals to clean solar modules. Do not touch cables or sources of electricity.
Always ensure the system is mounted in a stable position on the roof with no corrosion.
Do not expose panels to sunlight concentrated or refracted by the glass or any other reflective objects.
Keep the nonsunlight-facing side of the integrated solar roof tile clear of extraneous or foreign objects not a part of the PV system.
FIRE PRECAUTION
Avoid all areas near flammable liquids and substances when installing Ergosun.
The assembly must be mounted over a fire-resistant roof covering to maintain the system class A fire rating classification.
A class A fire rating is achieved when the system is installed with modules having a type 2 fire classification.
The module frame must be a maximum of 3” from the roof deck.
The roof on which the system is mounted has a pitch greater than or equal to 3”/12”
PLANNING
For new builds and re-roofs, consider establishing a contact with the project roofing company to coordinate installation of tiles & battens.
It is possible for roofers to assist with laying Ergosun solar tiles.
Two qualified people are recommended to start installing inverters, PV combiners, and additional equipment a day before solar tiles are installed according to design.
Have a physical copy of an accurate system design to label all strings, connections, and receivers.
System design should avoid shaded areas to ensure maximum output of modules.
Determine minimum number of penetrations in roof if wires are entering a structure.
It is recommended that the penetrations are located at the top of the system.
Any required roof penetrations should be marked where wiring must enter the structure.
Clip junction box housings on to back of solar tiles, you will hear 2 “clicks”, as there are two connections. Pull on MC4 to ensure connection is secure.
DECKING
Sheathing must be adequate to support the loads involved, but not less than nominal 1-inch-thick lumber or nominal 15/32-inch-thick plywood or other decking material recognized in a code evaluation report or by the local building official.
UNDERLAYMENT
ASTM D4869 Type I, II, III or IV ASTM D6757 Ergosun strongly recommends the use of self-adhering, modified asphalt underlayment that is easy to install and provides a slip-resistant surface that seals around nail penetrations, making it the preferred choice for tile roofs.
BATTENS
Ergosun solar integrated roof tiles may only be installed on an Elevated Batten System.
An Elevated Batten system aids in system ventilation and provides additional space under the solar tiles, necessary for the M4 and other wire connections including rapid shutdown.
VENTILATION
Ridge and or Attic Vents must be strategically placed/used when installing solar tiles!
Solar roof Ventilation Systems are required by the building codes.
These requirements vary and should be verified by the local jurisdiction.
RAPID SHUTDOWN COMPLIANCE
Rapid Shutdown must occur at the string level unless AHJ approves otherwise.
Ergosun AC solar modules comply with all NEC 690.12 requirements for rapid shutdown.
Ergosun modules are grid support utility interactive.
When the AC module disconnect cuts power to the modules on the roof all AC module outputs will be off within 2 seconds, as required by IEEE 1547.
All wiring leaving AC modules is compliant with the control conductor limits of 690.12. NEC 2017 and later (i.e., NEC 2020) require rapid shutdown at the panel module level.
As of July 2020, these codes are in effect in 35 states. Three states do not currently have a statewide NEC in effect as of 06/29/21: (Arizona, Missouri, and Mississippi), though it may exist in some cities and municipalities.
It is mandatory to send all plans and records to info@ergosunusa.com immediately after installation.
TO MAINTAIN EFFICIENCY
Dirt and/or dust build-up on the surface of the solar modules themselves may lead to a decrease in energy output from any individual solar panel and should be monitored consistently to maintain optimal performance of solar system Use a soft bristled broom, leaf blower, or mop to clean off snow.
Do not pressure wash. No hot water on cold panels and no cold on hot panels when cleaning.
If possible do not clean solar panels with regular tap water. Distilled water. No soap.
Use scraper to get off caked on debris.
Wash panels in the morning or evening when temps are cooler.
Do not stand on panels.
Inspect batteries 2-3 times a year for corrosion. Clean every 3-5 years.
Check battery’s charge.
Check individual string output at least once per year.
Once a year inspect electrical conduit.
Be sure PV wiring and cables are not touching the roof.
To learn more about installation email info@solartileroof.us
Or complete Become a Solar Tile Roof Contracting Service Provider form.
