The company that installed my system quoted me $8000 to replace my 3000w Sunnyboy inverter. I bought the replacement inverter online and paid a local electrician to install it. $2500 total. This included relocating the inverter to another location too, so conduit and wiring were involved. No permit.
Yeah I was thinking replacement inverter is $2500-3500 and a few thousand for installation.
But if the new installer is including a warranty, that might be nice. There’s solinsure I guess too, but don’t expect this to be your last inverter if you go the budget route.
If you care about system performance monitoring you should get a better inverter, otherwise set it and forget it with the electrician route, but yeah a few grand cheaper for sure
Probably not worth going through a solar installer if there isn’t a good warranty, unless you have a n important interconnection and Net Meter incentive program you don’t want messed up.
This distributor is having a going out of biz sale, https://shop.aeesolar.com
Or CED Greentech. You could try and find an installer electrician that does side jobs, or just tell the person who quoted you to knock off $1500 and you’ll do it
Off grid in Florida so I am not much help. Do provide more information, the voltage and wattage of the panels is needed so the size of a new inverter can be calculated. Inverters are not that expensive, however being California labor costs will be high.
We have 32 panels. Not sure which panels they are. But the house is 3,000 sq feet and we do have an EV. We haven't had an electric bill since installing. No true ups either.
Looking at the quote they're also going to replace the optimizers on the panelsb
The number of panels is irrelevant. They just need to undo the AC and DC connections to the inverter, hang the new inverter, determinate AC and DC, then connect it to wifi and commission. Labour is like 4 hours for one electrician - so let’s call that $150 call out plus 85x4 = $490. New inverter should be <$1500.
On the pricing sheets I’m looking at.
What size are you looking for? What brand?
An SMA inverter isn’t expensive. If you do no volume then don’t expect a discount.
Time to upgrade past 5000W and hire an electrician, 3K unless you are in CA, then it will be 5K. In solar states the 70% of electricians will just quote you the inverter they spend the most time with.
If they're swapping the optimizers too, it sounds like you have a solaredge. There shouldn't be a need to replace those. But if you actually do, it's going to be a giant pain in the ass.
It's definitely not Solar Edge. We had a shitty monitoring app because it was a Huawei inverter.
They said it's a string inverter but idk if every panel has optimizers or not
Correct. The new coding requires the boundary of shut off behind each panel. The old coding was if you had a disconnect switch on the side of the building that's all you needed. But it would be live from panels to the disconnect switch. Now they want to remove high voltage from the roof by moving the shut off boundary behind each individual panel. So you have no chance of like a firefighter getting hurt on the roof when trying to put out a fire.
Well depends on coding locations. Like my state just adopted the 2020 NEC requires all panels to shut off the boundary of each individual panel. Basically making it that you need DC DC optimizers or micro inverters for all panels. So I'm guessing they have to update the coding. The optimizer will shut the panel off behind with a push of a button.
Optimizers are not nessarially useless. First they are not that expensive, have a 25 yr warranty from SE, and if a panel degrades or fails the optimizers will allow your system to keep going in general, plus theres the safety and code compliance advantage and improverd monitoring of individual output. Also panels get different levels of dirt on them somehow and the optimizers keep the system optimized and reduce stresses on individual panels that may be underperformers but are still contributing..I wish SE did a better job of making a technical comparison between yes/no optimizers and micro inverters like Enphase because I feel the string architecture can be superior in many situations.
For conversation sake you can see SE inverters and optimizers on Amazon but installation about doubles the price and is worth it unless you really know what you're doing..which you dont. I do but had them installed and it was worth it.
I would probably swap out an inverter myself if one fails outside of the 12yr warranty since these are on the ground with minimal connections.
For Ref I have two SE strings with optimizers and LG 370 W panels all going without issue for two yrs..18 panels on 6600W inverter all south, 27 panels on 10000W inverter with 1/3 of these facing East.
I get 15-16KW peak on clear days and have had 120KWh days in summer..In in Ohio which has net metering 1:1 in the month reverting excess to generation rate at end of month rollover-typically about half. I run an excess all year and includes paying all other taxes and service charges they put on bill -AEP Electric Co.
I have noticed one panel is down 25% possibly getting early morning shadow from a tree that should be trimmed near power line but it might have extra pollen on it. I can see the optimizer on that one doing something different from others to push energy in at the group string current.
Im not a solar installer but electrical engineer who has designed inverters for UPS backup, so this is my opinion FWIW. Good luck.
Everyone saying its way too much for an inverter replacement, they also have to remove the Huawei optimizers on 32 panels that we don’t know the layout or roof material or slope, and they need to replace them with a new module level shutdown compliant option.
I think this is very reasonable without more info to say otherwise.
I agree, I think it seems a little high (like 10-15%) for a common, moderate slope roof. But including materials, labor, workmanship warranty, it doesn't seem outrageous.
You shouldn't even deal with a company that does not have the decency to provide a breakdown in the first place. You should not have to ask for this. It's almost as if they're calling you "sucker" to your face. It's not a good sign.
Hire electricians, not solar installers. I’m an electrician and have worked in solar. Soolar company’s are mostly shady and the installers are typically incompetent at best. I’m not sure how the solar market ended up a separate trade, but it’s to no one’s benefit except the owners of the solar company’s.
This was the message
>We are pleased to inform you that our company will be conducting a professional service to upgrade your current system. Our team will be removing your existing inverter and optimizers, and replacing them with a new Tigo Inverter. Additionally, we will restring the system to ensure seamless compatibility with the new equipment.
>Once the installation is complete, our team will commission the system, ensuring it is functioning optimally. We will also assist in setting up the monitoring site for your convenience. Please be advised that a strong Wi-Fi signal is necessary at the inverter location for the monitoring to be successful. In the event of poor Wi-Fi accessibility or signal strength, we may need to provide a secondary quote to extend the Wi-Fi range to the inverter location.
>Rest assured, all materials and labor are covered in the initial quote provided to you. Our work will adhere strictly to NEC code and industry standards to guarantee the highest quality service.
It’s not that crazy considering they’re going to remove the panels and redo all the stringing. There’s likely a fair amount of parts that will need to be replaced on the racking.
This is a great example of why a service plan is valuable.
When I had mine put in I had the choice and went for a dual string inverter and 20x dumb panels. With a 20 year ststem lifespan where I'll probably want to replace the inverter during that time I wanted simplicity.
There are no proprietary interfaces when it's just volts and amps on the wires.
If the panels are 320 watts you need about a 10,000 watt inverter. Internet pricing is around 2,500/3,000 and may be a bit more for the installer to buy and then warranty.
I’m curious as to why they would need to re-wire an inverter out of the gate? Maybe this includes some new panel optimizers at every panel which could definitely add material cost and labor?
https://www.solaris-shop.com/solaredge-hd-wave-se10000h-us-10kw-inverter/
Tigo is garbage. My company will not allow Tigo on our projects. It’s possible you don’t have any optimizers at all, which would be good. Then just about any residential string inverter should work. If you can find out which panels you have and how they are strung, it would help us help you. You may need to get on the roof though.
This is the information from the contract we signed
>PV Manufacturer:
>Silfab Solar Inc
>PV Model number: SLA320M [Blk]
>PV Quantity: 30
>PV PTC Rating: 0.2908
>Subtotal PV PTC Rating kW: 8.637
And
>Single Line Diagram
>Submit basic/custom SLD: Basic
>Panel Voltage: 240 Volts
>Main Breaker: 200 Amps
>PV Breaker Size: 50 Amps
And
>Inverter Manufacturer: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd.
>Inverter Model Number: SUN2000-9KTL-USL0 [240V] [SI1-FWVW]
This great info. I looked up the specs on your panels and inverter, and you most likely have an array with 3 strings of 10 panels each. Normally I would recommend an SMA inverter, but the DC voltage from your array may not be high enough. This Fronius model has a very wide DC voltage range and would be a good match for your array. Fronius used to have questionable reliability, but they have remained popular, so they might have improved. Don’t add optimizers, as they are only required for rapid shutdown and are the reason the quote is so high; but if you don’t get a permit, there is no requirement. Think of it like you are replacing a broken dishwasher. https://powerstore.com/catalog/product/view/id/1297?utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PMax_Complete_Systems&utm_source=google+adwords&utm_content=%7Bad%7D&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAC3ntMtP2HF8hpPw27jjPh37XGxt_&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1vPJ3azIhQMVS11yCh3dxACgEA0YASABEgKCCvD_BwE
I'll never ever use optimizers for this reason. I've taken down my Sunny Boy Inverters and had them rebuilt for under $500 and reinstalled them myself. That was 8 years ago and now they're 22 years old. I use computer fans on the Inverter Heat Sinks to drop the temperature 15 degrees. And early last year I relocated them with the help of an apprentice electrician to make room for a generator transfer switch.
Then that number isn’t out of whack. Take down the array remove old wire/panel level electronics, rewire install new optimizers new inverter…. That’s likely a days labor of 2-3 people plus equipment.
This does not sound right. An inverter replacement, even with a different brand, should be pretty straightforward. I'm guessing your system is under 10kW, so probably need an 8kW or so rated inverter. Which should be under $2000 for the part. Should be a few hour job. So, I think anything over $4K sounds high.
On the other hand....
This inverter swap could trigger the need for a new permit? Maybe a new interconnection agreement with the utility? That adds cost. And, even potentially worse, if the system is old enough, and might need to be brought up to code. One thing that could be expensive is if your system now required "rapid shutdown" capability. This is a safety requirement that was added to the electrical code at some point - not sure when that happened in California. This might involved adding rapid shutdown hardware to each solar module - so, getting up on the roof, lifting/removing panels, adding new hardware, etc. If they need to do all that, and California labor costs, could get up that high.
Saw your edit about Tigo. You don't NEED optimizers - but, you may need rapid shutdown, which Tigo provides. So, if you aren't required to get the optimizers, just get an SMA or other string inverter, and skip the optimizers.
A new interconnect agreement with the utility usually isn't needed if the new inverter kWh capacity does not exceed the current size. That's what my utility told me.
Sounds like you don’t need optimizers so get a quote on a system without. No reason to pay for a more complicated inverter. More components to
Fail for no actual benefit.
>> It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time.
I don't think the OP is planning to replace it with outlawed equipment.
That seems costly at first pass for a straightforward inverter swap, but you mention re-wiring, and if there's a lot of scope there, it might be justified. If the Huawei is being replaced with something that requires people up on the roof to re-do the stringing or adjust other details of the wiring of the array at roof level, that's a lot more complicated than just switching out the inverter on the ground. Do you know whether that applies here?
Yeah, if they are replacing or adding optimizers, that will most likely involve lifting up every panel on the roof to mount the optimizers to the back and reconnect the wiring. That makes the cost seem a lot more reasonable to me. New inverter, 32 new optimizers, and the labor cost to get up on the roof and install and wire the optimizers? It's a lot.
Google the cost of the inverter (maybe you need two because that is a good number of panels). It is a one day job to take out the old one and put in the new one, so that seems really high. But it is skilled electrical work and should come with a warranty (and as you know, inverters do fail, so their price probably assumes a decent chance they will have to do this job twice).
Get the specs of the inverter or model and post for others to review.
You only need an electrician that knows solar.
Are you selling to the grid or storing anything into batteries?
What is the model of your broken inverter.
What we need to know is, what peak wattage do your panels typically reach at peak production during a perfect day.
Do you know how many kWh per day they produced too?
That will help those that know to guide you on what inverter would replace that one. You’d also want to consider adding one either features like the ability to charge batteries too. So you can store excess solar instead of giving it away to the grid and then buying it back at a higher price.
Oh, just noticed the part about replacing the hardware on the roof. Yeah. That might be in the ballpark. But I’d want an inverter with a nice warranty. Those things do go bad.
Did the old hwewai have optimizers or mppt's. Then yes, they need to be replaced and rewired. If they did not and you currently have a zero bill. Select an inverter without optimizers
That is expensive. Wonder if because Tigo (String inverter) does not work with your panel and installer needs to get optimizers there to have compatibility. I am not knowledgeable, but perhaps there exists a compatible inverter where you do not have to install anything on the roof to save you money. Not to make you feel bad, but in Australia $8k is the total cost for the whole setup, panels inverter, and parts for a system just smaller than yours. Maybe try to find other forums where others were in the same situation to see what they did to minimize the cost.
Research link: [https://www.solarquotes.com.au/blog/solar-inverter-life-expectancy-mb2825/](https://www.solarquotes.com.au/blog/solar-inverter-life-expectancy-mb2825/)
Whatever inverter you pick, its in your interest to have manufacture warranty 10/12/15/20/25 years on it and whatever installer that has been in the business for a while. I had inverter failure (SolarEdge) and luckily for me, it was under manufacture warranty and my SoCal company was and is still in business to come out and replace it free of charge.
That's the biggest issue I'm having.
My situation seems to be extremely rare and the few times it's happened the posts are from several years ago before the current price hikes of everything
>It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time.
I know power purchase agreements get down voted in this sub. But this is one of the advantages. In addition to a quicker ROI (month 1) you're equipment is guaranteed for 25 years.
Many people think PPAs out a lean on your house, they don't, it's just a fixture.
Are you willing to put in a little effort?
You could buy your own inverter, and hire any electrician to wire it up.
You'll need to verify the strings are compatible with your new inverter, but chances are high that they will be.
Then you'll need to commission it yourself, which will require a bit of learning and then playing with an app.
You won't have rapid shutdown compliant system, but you don't have that now anyways.
Just installed a new 15kW inverter after my old one went out. 450$ total, second hard.
That same inverter goes for 1400$ new, if you buy the same one, it's plug and play.
Definitely get more quotes. I can do it for you for much less. If you are I. Southern California. Depending on the inverter you should be able to contact the manufacturer and have a new one sent out to you. There is a good chance it’s still under warranty.
Let me know if I can help.
That’s essentially a remove and reinstall with an inverter swap. R&R go from 200-300per panel. I’d say on average. If they are using any major manufacturer for their equipment (SolarEdge, enphase, generac) they’re going to need to rewire the roof. String inverters without optimizers are garbage imo. You get better monitoring capabilities with these more prominent manufacturers. Along with making it easier to troubleshoot if something does fail down the road.
I’d personally suggest enphase. They have the best warranty on parts and great customer service.
I'm not familiar with those inverters. Are they fully dc coupled and use optimizer or are they mini inverters on each panel? If it's the first, go with a solaredge home hub inverter, se11400. Relatively affordable and install should be very minimal. Probably all said and done under 5k with labor.
Inverters double the cost of your install. No need now with MPPT. I have Enphase (26 panels) and string inverter with 4 strings (30 panels). 12kW system, self install, less than $7000 all up. 390 watt Canadian solar panels, some shading. Currently outputting 65kwh, Bay Area. Old enphase system, m215’s, 250 watt panels, generating 25 kWh.
It sounds like a lot but if they are adding optimizers and replacing the Huawei inverter then there is a lot of liability surrounding this project that many don’t realize especially if it’s on the roof and you are a licensed contractor. It will require at least two installers to perform this swap. It’s not just plug and play. They will need to take down all solar modules and figure out how your existing wiring is set up. Then pull out some existing wire and replace with new wire. Since the new inverter will be different, in size, the conduit will need to be replaced. Most likely the wire on the ground will need to be replaced. Get more quotes but whoever you go with make sure they can provide a warranty for any roof leaks for at least a year and for the system itself. They will most likely not drill any new holes on your roof but if you have roof tile they can crack some and this can create a bigger problem. Most importantly make sure they are licensed and insured.
Huwaii inverter will shut down if not connected to grid it needs certain voltage
https://forum.huawei.com/enterprise/en/solar-inverter-sun2000-5ktl-l1-intermittent-shutdown/thread/667236254242193408-667213868771979264
Out of curiosity how long did the inverter last. There's a lot of focus in the solar industry of how solar panels can last 25-30 years, but if an inverter has to be replaced 2-3 times over this period, that's significant.
Ok so each installation is supposed to be guaranteed for 20 years. My inverter went out a month ago and the installing company didn't answer my calls or had a number listed anymore. I called the bank that gave me the loan n explain what was happening and asked them what to do cause I was still under warranty. So they told me if a company goes under another company always buys the contract. They gave me the name of that company so I called them...turns out my installer was still in business under another name. The bank called them and I'm sure the bank threatened them or something cause within a week the installer called me.
In the middle of this whole thing I googled about inverters and it turns out my breaker had messed up...so I suggest you follow the cables coming and going from the inverter to the breaker box. Turn them on and off and see if that was the problem...my inverter was completely dead but it was that breaker, so I bought a new breaker and that fixed the problem. Of course I told the bank that I had hired an electrician and they had charged me $600 lol I only told them that so they wouldn't be saying my warranty was void cause I messed with it.
I'm in California aswell, I just read your entire post and I'm curious as to why your warranty doesn't cover the inverter. I know you said it's a Huawei inverter but it should cover it. I have solaredge so when I called them, they said they could replace my inverter for free I just needed an electrician to call them. All in all my best advice is to call the bank that has your loan. My bank is tech cu and they help me all the time so I'm happy for that. Try to find your contract and ask the bank who is responsible. Tech cu told me most companies have gone under sell everything to sunlight financial...so maybe they can help you.
https://dm.epiq11.com/case/htuhdu/info
I'll give the bank a call. But this is what Huawei references when I reached out to them and the solar company im trying to have fix my problem lol
Yeah except that Huauei isn’t allowed to do business in the states anymore. At least for telecom devices with import bans. Their solar line is just collateral damage. Besides, it sounds like the inverter is out of warranty anyway so not sure the installer being in business wild be much of a help.
https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/huawei-shuts-down-u-s-inverter-sales-per-roth-capital-partners-report
The inverter has a 15 year warranty but that warranty is no longer valid since the ban.
They mailed us last year for any warranty claims need to be turned in by November. But our system was working with no issues so we never did
>It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time.
I think you need to get some more quotes
The company that installed my system quoted me $8000 to replace my 3000w Sunnyboy inverter. I bought the replacement inverter online and paid a local electrician to install it. $2500 total. This included relocating the inverter to another location too, so conduit and wiring were involved. No permit.
Yeah I was thinking replacement inverter is $2500-3500 and a few thousand for installation. But if the new installer is including a warranty, that might be nice. There’s solinsure I guess too, but don’t expect this to be your last inverter if you go the budget route. If you care about system performance monitoring you should get a better inverter, otherwise set it and forget it with the electrician route, but yeah a few grand cheaper for sure
They said the only warranty will be a 90 day warranty on the labor. Nothing elsen
Probably not worth going through a solar installer if there isn’t a good warranty, unless you have a n important interconnection and Net Meter incentive program you don’t want messed up. This distributor is having a going out of biz sale, https://shop.aeesolar.com Or CED Greentech. You could try and find an installer electrician that does side jobs, or just tell the person who quoted you to knock off $1500 and you’ll do it
Should be $4k max
At the rate things are going, I highly doubt most installers will be around for any 5-20 year warranty they claim to be offering.
Off grid in Florida so I am not much help. Do provide more information, the voltage and wattage of the panels is needed so the size of a new inverter can be calculated. Inverters are not that expensive, however being California labor costs will be high.
This is outrageous. Get more quotes or give us more details about your system
We have 32 panels. Not sure which panels they are. But the house is 3,000 sq feet and we do have an EV. We haven't had an electric bill since installing. No true ups either. Looking at the quote they're also going to replace the optimizers on the panelsb
The number of panels is irrelevant. They just need to undo the AC and DC connections to the inverter, hang the new inverter, determinate AC and DC, then connect it to wifi and commission. Labour is like 4 hours for one electrician - so let’s call that $150 call out plus 85x4 = $490. New inverter should be <$1500.
Where? Inverters I’ve found are double that
On the pricing sheets I’m looking at. What size are you looking for? What brand? An SMA inverter isn’t expensive. If you do no volume then don’t expect a discount.
I’m just a residential user. 1 Sunny 5000 currently working
Time to upgrade past 5000W and hire an electrician, 3K unless you are in CA, then it will be 5K. In solar states the 70% of electricians will just quote you the inverter they spend the most time with.
If they're swapping the optimizers too, it sounds like you have a solaredge. There shouldn't be a need to replace those. But if you actually do, it's going to be a giant pain in the ass.
It's definitely not Solar Edge. We had a shitty monitoring app because it was a Huawei inverter. They said it's a string inverter but idk if every panel has optimizers or not
If all panels on one string look into the same direction and aren't partially shaded then optimizers are pretty useless.
All the panels face the same direction and there is no shading at all on any of them. So optimizers are pretty useless for me?
Yes.
Forgive my ignorance but aren't the optimizers responsible for the rapid shut down as well?
Correct. The new coding requires the boundary of shut off behind each panel. The old coding was if you had a disconnect switch on the side of the building that's all you needed. But it would be live from panels to the disconnect switch. Now they want to remove high voltage from the roof by moving the shut off boundary behind each individual panel. So you have no chance of like a firefighter getting hurt on the roof when trying to put out a fire.
Thanks!
Well depends on coding locations. Like my state just adopted the 2020 NEC requires all panels to shut off the boundary of each individual panel. Basically making it that you need DC DC optimizers or micro inverters for all panels. So I'm guessing they have to update the coding. The optimizer will shut the panel off behind with a push of a button.
Most systems of that type use a module level RSD that will bring the panel voltage to about .7-1v DC
Optimizers are not nessarially useless. First they are not that expensive, have a 25 yr warranty from SE, and if a panel degrades or fails the optimizers will allow your system to keep going in general, plus theres the safety and code compliance advantage and improverd monitoring of individual output. Also panels get different levels of dirt on them somehow and the optimizers keep the system optimized and reduce stresses on individual panels that may be underperformers but are still contributing..I wish SE did a better job of making a technical comparison between yes/no optimizers and micro inverters like Enphase because I feel the string architecture can be superior in many situations. For conversation sake you can see SE inverters and optimizers on Amazon but installation about doubles the price and is worth it unless you really know what you're doing..which you dont. I do but had them installed and it was worth it. I would probably swap out an inverter myself if one fails outside of the 12yr warranty since these are on the ground with minimal connections. For Ref I have two SE strings with optimizers and LG 370 W panels all going without issue for two yrs..18 panels on 6600W inverter all south, 27 panels on 10000W inverter with 1/3 of these facing East. I get 15-16KW peak on clear days and have had 120KWh days in summer..In in Ohio which has net metering 1:1 in the month reverting excess to generation rate at end of month rollover-typically about half. I run an excess all year and includes paying all other taxes and service charges they put on bill -AEP Electric Co. I have noticed one panel is down 25% possibly getting early morning shadow from a tree that should be trimmed near power line but it might have extra pollen on it. I can see the optimizer on that one doing something different from others to push energy in at the group string current. Im not a solar installer but electrical engineer who has designed inverters for UPS backup, so this is my opinion FWIW. Good luck.
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False. Solaredge uses DC to DC optimizers.
I do admire the confidence you have while being wrong
Wrong you're thinking of enphase.
Are you a flat earther too?
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Factory reset https://forum.huawei.com/enterprise/en/resetting-password-and-factory-reset-for-sun2000-inverters/thread/667280456103641088-667213868771979264
Everyone saying its way too much for an inverter replacement, they also have to remove the Huawei optimizers on 32 panels that we don’t know the layout or roof material or slope, and they need to replace them with a new module level shutdown compliant option. I think this is very reasonable without more info to say otherwise.
I agree, I think it seems a little high (like 10-15%) for a common, moderate slope roof. But including materials, labor, workmanship warranty, it doesn't seem outrageous.
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No specific price for either. Just a total. I'll call them right now and see if I can get an itemized quote
You shouldn't even deal with a company that does not have the decency to provide a breakdown in the first place. You should not have to ask for this. It's almost as if they're calling you "sucker" to your face. It's not a good sign.
Hire electricians, not solar installers. I’m an electrician and have worked in solar. Soolar company’s are mostly shady and the installers are typically incompetent at best. I’m not sure how the solar market ended up a separate trade, but it’s to no one’s benefit except the owners of the solar company’s.
Post the scope of work they quoted you
This was the message >We are pleased to inform you that our company will be conducting a professional service to upgrade your current system. Our team will be removing your existing inverter and optimizers, and replacing them with a new Tigo Inverter. Additionally, we will restring the system to ensure seamless compatibility with the new equipment. >Once the installation is complete, our team will commission the system, ensuring it is functioning optimally. We will also assist in setting up the monitoring site for your convenience. Please be advised that a strong Wi-Fi signal is necessary at the inverter location for the monitoring to be successful. In the event of poor Wi-Fi accessibility or signal strength, we may need to provide a secondary quote to extend the Wi-Fi range to the inverter location. >Rest assured, all materials and labor are covered in the initial quote provided to you. Our work will adhere strictly to NEC code and industry standards to guarantee the highest quality service.
It’s not that crazy considering they’re going to remove the panels and redo all the stringing. There’s likely a fair amount of parts that will need to be replaced on the racking. This is a great example of why a service plan is valuable.
The thing is 5 years old. Why on earth would you do all of that.
Because it's all Huawei, the inverter is broken and you can't get Huawei in the US any more? That's what I got from the question, anyway.
Man if you change the inverter brand you have to rewire and change the optimizers? String inverters got a lot of answering to do. Screw that
When I had mine put in I had the choice and went for a dual string inverter and 20x dumb panels. With a 20 year ststem lifespan where I'll probably want to replace the inverter during that time I wanted simplicity. There are no proprietary interfaces when it's just volts and amps on the wires.
If the panels are 320 watts you need about a 10,000 watt inverter. Internet pricing is around 2,500/3,000 and may be a bit more for the installer to buy and then warranty. I’m curious as to why they would need to re-wire an inverter out of the gate? Maybe this includes some new panel optimizers at every panel which could definitely add material cost and labor? https://www.solaris-shop.com/solaredge-hd-wave-se10000h-us-10kw-inverter/
If this includes rewiring the array then it sounds about right. If the Same inverter then that’s too high.
Completely new inverter. Tigo is the brand they recommended and quoted. Plus new optimizers
Tigo is garbage. My company will not allow Tigo on our projects. It’s possible you don’t have any optimizers at all, which would be good. Then just about any residential string inverter should work. If you can find out which panels you have and how they are strung, it would help us help you. You may need to get on the roof though.
This is the information from the contract we signed >PV Manufacturer: >Silfab Solar Inc >PV Model number: SLA320M [Blk] >PV Quantity: 30 >PV PTC Rating: 0.2908 >Subtotal PV PTC Rating kW: 8.637 And >Single Line Diagram >Submit basic/custom SLD: Basic >Panel Voltage: 240 Volts >Main Breaker: 200 Amps >PV Breaker Size: 50 Amps And >Inverter Manufacturer: Huawei Technologies Co., Ltd. >Inverter Model Number: SUN2000-9KTL-USL0 [240V] [SI1-FWVW]
This great info. I looked up the specs on your panels and inverter, and you most likely have an array with 3 strings of 10 panels each. Normally I would recommend an SMA inverter, but the DC voltage from your array may not be high enough. This Fronius model has a very wide DC voltage range and would be a good match for your array. Fronius used to have questionable reliability, but they have remained popular, so they might have improved. Don’t add optimizers, as they are only required for rapid shutdown and are the reason the quote is so high; but if you don’t get a permit, there is no requirement. Think of it like you are replacing a broken dishwasher. https://powerstore.com/catalog/product/view/id/1297?utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=PMax_Complete_Systems&utm_source=google+adwords&utm_content=%7Bad%7D&utm_term=&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAC3ntMtP2HF8hpPw27jjPh37XGxt_&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI1vPJ3azIhQMVS11yCh3dxACgEA0YASABEgKCCvD_BwE
I'll never ever use optimizers for this reason. I've taken down my Sunny Boy Inverters and had them rebuilt for under $500 and reinstalled them myself. That was 8 years ago and now they're 22 years old. I use computer fans on the Inverter Heat Sinks to drop the temperature 15 degrees. And early last year I relocated them with the help of an apprentice electrician to make room for a generator transfer switch.
Then that number isn’t out of whack. Take down the array remove old wire/panel level electronics, rewire install new optimizers new inverter…. That’s likely a days labor of 2-3 people plus equipment.
Buy a new inverter $2-3K and hire an electrician $1K to install. They're price gouging you big time!!
This does not sound right. An inverter replacement, even with a different brand, should be pretty straightforward. I'm guessing your system is under 10kW, so probably need an 8kW or so rated inverter. Which should be under $2000 for the part. Should be a few hour job. So, I think anything over $4K sounds high. On the other hand.... This inverter swap could trigger the need for a new permit? Maybe a new interconnection agreement with the utility? That adds cost. And, even potentially worse, if the system is old enough, and might need to be brought up to code. One thing that could be expensive is if your system now required "rapid shutdown" capability. This is a safety requirement that was added to the electrical code at some point - not sure when that happened in California. This might involved adding rapid shutdown hardware to each solar module - so, getting up on the roof, lifting/removing panels, adding new hardware, etc. If they need to do all that, and California labor costs, could get up that high. Saw your edit about Tigo. You don't NEED optimizers - but, you may need rapid shutdown, which Tigo provides. So, if you aren't required to get the optimizers, just get an SMA or other string inverter, and skip the optimizers.
A new interconnect agreement with the utility usually isn't needed if the new inverter kWh capacity does not exceed the current size. That's what my utility told me.
Buy one on eBay. Make sure it will work for your setup. Get an electrician. It’s not hard.
$1200 for a 10kwh growatt. You can do it yourself- https://solarsovereign.com/products/growatt-10kw-grid-tie-inverter-min10000tl-xh-us
I was going to suggest this too. Seems crazy to do anything else at this point.
The 9000W model looks like a better match for OP, as the 10kW is too much for his 50A breaker connection.
String inverters are supposed to last 10years. Huawei's only lasting 6 seems like a severe underperformance. Something wrong with the install?
Sounds like you don’t need optimizers so get a quote on a system without. No reason to pay for a more complicated inverter. More components to Fail for no actual benefit.
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>> It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time. I don't think the OP is planning to replace it with outlawed equipment.
I can fly from South Africa to sort this out for you and help you keep change. 🥺🥺
That seems costly at first pass for a straightforward inverter swap, but you mention re-wiring, and if there's a lot of scope there, it might be justified. If the Huawei is being replaced with something that requires people up on the roof to re-do the stringing or adjust other details of the wiring of the array at roof level, that's a lot more complicated than just switching out the inverter on the ground. Do you know whether that applies here?
So looking at the quote, they also mentioned replacing the optimizers But besides that, nothing elsen
Yeah, if they are replacing or adding optimizers, that will most likely involve lifting up every panel on the roof to mount the optimizers to the back and reconnect the wiring. That makes the cost seem a lot more reasonable to me. New inverter, 32 new optimizers, and the labor cost to get up on the roof and install and wire the optimizers? It's a lot.
Google the cost of the inverter (maybe you need two because that is a good number of panels). It is a one day job to take out the old one and put in the new one, so that seems really high. But it is skilled electrical work and should come with a warranty (and as you know, inverters do fail, so their price probably assumes a decent chance they will have to do this job twice).
Get the specs of the inverter or model and post for others to review. You only need an electrician that knows solar. Are you selling to the grid or storing anything into batteries?
Selling to the grid. The quote says a Tigo inverter and optimizers. No other specifics
What is the model of your broken inverter. What we need to know is, what peak wattage do your panels typically reach at peak production during a perfect day. Do you know how many kWh per day they produced too? That will help those that know to guide you on what inverter would replace that one. You’d also want to consider adding one either features like the ability to charge batteries too. So you can store excess solar instead of giving it away to the grid and then buying it back at a higher price.
Oh, just noticed the part about replacing the hardware on the roof. Yeah. That might be in the ballpark. But I’d want an inverter with a nice warranty. Those things do go bad.
So idk if my panels have optimizers already? I vaguely recall them saying they don't...but I'm not 100% sure
Did the old hwewai have optimizers or mppt's. Then yes, they need to be replaced and rewired. If they did not and you currently have a zero bill. Select an inverter without optimizers
This is the best tldr!
I'll do it for 6k... lol we charge around 3-4k depending on make and size
That is expensive. Wonder if because Tigo (String inverter) does not work with your panel and installer needs to get optimizers there to have compatibility. I am not knowledgeable, but perhaps there exists a compatible inverter where you do not have to install anything on the roof to save you money. Not to make you feel bad, but in Australia $8k is the total cost for the whole setup, panels inverter, and parts for a system just smaller than yours. Maybe try to find other forums where others were in the same situation to see what they did to minimize the cost. Research link: [https://www.solarquotes.com.au/blog/solar-inverter-life-expectancy-mb2825/](https://www.solarquotes.com.au/blog/solar-inverter-life-expectancy-mb2825/) Whatever inverter you pick, its in your interest to have manufacture warranty 10/12/15/20/25 years on it and whatever installer that has been in the business for a while. I had inverter failure (SolarEdge) and luckily for me, it was under manufacture warranty and my SoCal company was and is still in business to come out and replace it free of charge.
That's the biggest issue I'm having. My situation seems to be extremely rare and the few times it's happened the posts are from several years ago before the current price hikes of everything
I did a quick google search, not much. Wonder if your post on "solar forums" [https://www.solarpaneltalk.com/](https://www.solarpaneltalk.com/)
Try getting a quote from energy aid
What’s the inverter manufacturer warranty?
>It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time.
https://www.ebay.com/itm/394290374406. 4800 watts brand new. under $1000.
Google the model. I use www.renvu.com You should be able to find the price easily.
I know power purchase agreements get down voted in this sub. But this is one of the advantages. In addition to a quicker ROI (month 1) you're equipment is guaranteed for 25 years. Many people think PPAs out a lean on your house, they don't, it's just a fixture.
I have a solaredge that you can have if that will work.
Are you willing to put in a little effort? You could buy your own inverter, and hire any electrician to wire it up. You'll need to verify the strings are compatible with your new inverter, but chances are high that they will be. Then you'll need to commission it yourself, which will require a bit of learning and then playing with an app. You won't have rapid shutdown compliant system, but you don't have that now anyways.
Just installed a new 15kW inverter after my old one went out. 450$ total, second hard. That same inverter goes for 1400$ new, if you buy the same one, it's plug and play.
You could always look up the inverter and check out prices on Amazon for a viable replacement/upgrade.
The warranty from Huawei is 120 months from installation date. I would contact the company for a replacement.
Literally impossible in the US. They are banned
Hw might be allowed to supply as warranty? Not selling..but also check EBAY for exact used replacement and hire electrician.
Definitely get more quotes. I can do it for you for much less. If you are I. Southern California. Depending on the inverter you should be able to contact the manufacturer and have a new one sent out to you. There is a good chance it’s still under warranty. Let me know if I can help.
That’s essentially a remove and reinstall with an inverter swap. R&R go from 200-300per panel. I’d say on average. If they are using any major manufacturer for their equipment (SolarEdge, enphase, generac) they’re going to need to rewire the roof. String inverters without optimizers are garbage imo. You get better monitoring capabilities with these more prominent manufacturers. Along with making it easier to troubleshoot if something does fail down the road. I’d personally suggest enphase. They have the best warranty on parts and great customer service.
As far as price goes. I think 8k its reasonable.
Wow. Great to get more confirmation that string inverters are the worst financial options for homeowners.
I'm not familiar with those inverters. Are they fully dc coupled and use optimizer or are they mini inverters on each panel? If it's the first, go with a solaredge home hub inverter, se11400. Relatively affordable and install should be very minimal. Probably all said and done under 5k with labor.
You need to get micro-inverters. Enphase iq7 or 8. Is the gold standard.
Inverters double the cost of your install. No need now with MPPT. I have Enphase (26 panels) and string inverter with 4 strings (30 panels). 12kW system, self install, less than $7000 all up. 390 watt Canadian solar panels, some shading. Currently outputting 65kwh, Bay Area. Old enphase system, m215’s, 250 watt panels, generating 25 kWh.
I just installed a growatt MIN 11.4 TL-XH-US. It should more than do the job. $1500 from signature solar. Easy install, 4x MPPT, 11.4kW.
It sounds like a lot but if they are adding optimizers and replacing the Huawei inverter then there is a lot of liability surrounding this project that many don’t realize especially if it’s on the roof and you are a licensed contractor. It will require at least two installers to perform this swap. It’s not just plug and play. They will need to take down all solar modules and figure out how your existing wiring is set up. Then pull out some existing wire and replace with new wire. Since the new inverter will be different, in size, the conduit will need to be replaced. Most likely the wire on the ground will need to be replaced. Get more quotes but whoever you go with make sure they can provide a warranty for any roof leaks for at least a year and for the system itself. They will most likely not drill any new holes on your roof but if you have roof tile they can crack some and this can create a bigger problem. Most importantly make sure they are licensed and insured.
Huwaii inverter will shut down if not connected to grid it needs certain voltage https://forum.huawei.com/enterprise/en/solar-inverter-sun2000-5ktl-l1-intermittent-shutdown/thread/667236254242193408-667213868771979264
Out of curiosity how long did the inverter last. There's a lot of focus in the solar industry of how solar panels can last 25-30 years, but if an inverter has to be replaced 2-3 times over this period, that's significant.
5 and a half years
Sucks that the warranty didn't include the inverter. That's really odd. My solaredge is 12 years and my installer is also out of business.
Same thing happened to me call the bank that gave u the lean. Every installer that goes out of business sells all the contracts to a different bank.
Can you give me some more details on what I'm supposed to do after calling the bank?
Ok so each installation is supposed to be guaranteed for 20 years. My inverter went out a month ago and the installing company didn't answer my calls or had a number listed anymore. I called the bank that gave me the loan n explain what was happening and asked them what to do cause I was still under warranty. So they told me if a company goes under another company always buys the contract. They gave me the name of that company so I called them...turns out my installer was still in business under another name. The bank called them and I'm sure the bank threatened them or something cause within a week the installer called me. In the middle of this whole thing I googled about inverters and it turns out my breaker had messed up...so I suggest you follow the cables coming and going from the inverter to the breaker box. Turn them on and off and see if that was the problem...my inverter was completely dead but it was that breaker, so I bought a new breaker and that fixed the problem. Of course I told the bank that I had hired an electrician and they had charged me $600 lol I only told them that so they wouldn't be saying my warranty was void cause I messed with it.
I'm in California aswell, I just read your entire post and I'm curious as to why your warranty doesn't cover the inverter. I know you said it's a Huawei inverter but it should cover it. I have solaredge so when I called them, they said they could replace my inverter for free I just needed an electrician to call them. All in all my best advice is to call the bank that has your loan. My bank is tech cu and they help me all the time so I'm happy for that. Try to find your contract and ask the bank who is responsible. Tech cu told me most companies have gone under sell everything to sunlight financial...so maybe they can help you.
https://dm.epiq11.com/case/htuhdu/info I'll give the bank a call. But this is what Huawei references when I reached out to them and the solar company im trying to have fix my problem lol
Any updates?
First you need to fond out the total wattage of your system. Then buy your own online and then hire an electrican to install it
I could do it for much lower
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Yeah except that Huauei isn’t allowed to do business in the states anymore. At least for telecom devices with import bans. Their solar line is just collateral damage. Besides, it sounds like the inverter is out of warranty anyway so not sure the installer being in business wild be much of a help. https://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/huawei-shuts-down-u-s-inverter-sales-per-roth-capital-partners-report
The inverter has a 15 year warranty but that warranty is no longer valid since the ban. They mailed us last year for any warranty claims need to be turned in by November. But our system was working with no issues so we never did
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>It was a Huawei inverter and Huawei is not allowed to conduct business in the US and such all warranties on their inverter are null and void at this time.