pme export

sedgy34 · Jul 2, 2012

its advised to install an earth rod not compulsary unless there is a window in the roof where direct contact could occur, there is argument that bonding class2 equipment could cause a potential too.

if the array is not accesible i wont be installing any earth electrode in these circumstances as its class2 modules and out of reach.
any maintanance works to be carried out both AC/DC would be isolated on this instance!!!

Gavin A · Jul 2, 2012

we used to bond all TL systems to an earth rod or MET as per the 2006 DTI guide.

We stopped this when the draft new guide came out last autumn, and now follow this guidance as it actually makes sense, and we will now only bond where it's an extraneous conductive part (so tests positive for conductivity to earth), and is within touching distance of a velux window or similar.

I see exporting the equipotential zone to the roof as being something that should only be done where absolutely necessary, as it could pose a far greater hazard itself (in the event of an earth fault elsewhere in the house, and someone stood on a metal ladder touching the frame) than the odd minor tingle that it's possible to get in dewy conditions from capacitance from the panels.

so I think I agree.

SolarCity · Jul 2, 2012

We've come around to this conclusion also. Customers generally look horrified when we start installing an earth rod and I'm glad that we don't have to do it anymore.

Gavin A said:
so I think I agree.

Likewise.

sedgy34 · Jul 2, 2012

also to the regs as they both contradict each other

infinity · Jul 5, 2012

sedgy34 said:
its advised to install an earth rod not compulsary unless there is a window in the roof where direct contact could occur, there is argument that bonding class2 equipment could cause a potential too.

if the array is not accesible i wont be installing any earth electrode in these circumstances as its class2 modules and out of reach.
any maintanance works to be carried out both AC/DC would be isolated on this instance!!!

Do you still bond the array at all?

Where can i see the new dti guide position on bonding the array i cant find it :/

sedgy34 · Jul 5, 2012

infinity said:
Do you still bond the array at all?

Where can i see the new dti guide position on bonding the array i cant find it :/

only when you have a velux window and direct contact would occur

infinity · Jul 5, 2012

Had one today, with velux, so bonded back to MET, Will be nice not to have to worry about bonding otherwise.

Cant see how this can be completely safe though.