Installation sequence

1. Freeze the plan

Complete load sheet, schematic, physical layout, cable/fuse schedule and manuals. Verify components are mutually compatible.

2. Mount dry

Mount enclosures, busbars, disconnects, fuse holders, chargers and inverter on strong surfaces with cooling clearances. Keep batteries disconnected.

3. Route

Run and support large cables first, then branch DC, solar, signals and AC with separation. Protect penetrations before pulling wire.

4. Terminate

Crimp, heat-shrink, label and torque. Install battery last with all fuses removed/open and switches off. Have AC inspected before energizing.

5. Stage power

Commission battery and monitor first, then each charger, DC branch, inverter and AC branch one at a time. Record baseline voltage, current and temperature.

Rule of thumb

If you cannot state the expected current, full conductor length, protection rating and manufacturer limit for a circuit, the circuit is not ready to build.

CHAPTER CHECK

• I can explain the purpose of every component covered here. • I can identify the exact manufacturer limit that controls my design. • I have added the decision, rating or measurement to my schematic/worksheet.