Locating inverters on external wall: pros/cons

Rain_Dog_Brian · 15-08-2024 11:51am #1

This seems to be the only option for me, according to companies who have visited. They are reluctant to install in attic, and no obvious space internally. I’m not envisaging batteries but most companies want to install hybrid inverter rather than string inverter.
The inverters are IP65 rated so they seem comfortable with that. But it’s at our seating area, south facing.

Pros: seems safer than inside, easy access for maintenance

Cons: visual eyesore, could be tampered with, and most importantly, might be damaged by the elements over time and will get direct sunlight in summer.

I asked about relocating it to other quiet north facing sheltered side of house, but they focusing on distance to the fuse box (consumer unit).

Any/ all advice appreciated.

slave1 · 15-08-2024 1:09pm

Reluctant does not mean they will not do it, I've mine in the attic years, no issue and there is no maintenance required since it was turned on in 2020, there is no ongoing maintenance of an inverter

Scoobydoobydoo101 · 15-08-2024 4:52pm

If it was me, I would avoid placing it near your seating area.

My Solis inverter has a noticeable hum off it when it is in full production.

Sounds something like this (a bit quieter but still noticeable)

https://youtu.be/6KPKpmE7lYs?t=44

DC999 · 16-08-2024 2:46pm

https://www.boards.ie/discussion/2058364521/locating-inverters-on-external-wall-pros-cons

Mines outside 2 years and no issues. I got them to place it high so can’t be tampered with. Like 8+ foot high type thing. And I put some tape over the LEDs so they were less obvious. You’d spot them at night easily when the LEDs are flashing. It doesn’t look great, but there’s a car charger below it and a gas meter box below it. So…..

Mine is south facing with no fans (passive cooling oly) and it’s never gotten too hot (can see temp stats in the software). I expect there is more chance of it cooling with wind outside than cooking in an attic with basically no ventilation.

gildan · 17-08-2024 2:13pm

If the inverter and/or battery is rated IP65 and IP66 you should have no problems with situating them outside weather-wise. It'd be better to have them behind a fence or gate but seriously if someone tries to steal one or meddle with it somehow you're likely to find them fried in the morning. Some inverters (like Sigen) have insulation and battery warmers within the casings so efficiency has improved.