Equipment clearances and safe working space

All electrical components must follow proper requirements for clearances (space between one component and another object) given by manufacturers and by electrical codes. Requirements for clearances fall into two categories: clearances for ventilation and clearances to create a safe working environment. Often times the clearance requirements that a manufacturer makes in a product manual will be more stringent than the requirements outlined in an electrical code. The larger requirement should be followed.

Clearances for ventilation

All components used in off-grid PV systems generate heat when operating because they are not 100% efficient. The rated output or performanec for a given component will always be measured at a specific temperature and temperatures in excess of that value will lead to reduced performance (lead acid batteries will temporarily have improved performance, but their cycle life will be shortened in compensation). This means that cooling, especially in warm climates, is very important and must be carefully considered to ensure that a system performs properly. If a particular component has clearance requirements they will be outlined in the manual or installation guide. Inverters and charge controllers will have specific required clearances, PV modules often do not give guidance, but there are guidelines available in the mounting systems page.

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  Example of manufacturer specified clearances on all sides.

Clearance for a safe-working environment

Clearances are necessary for safe working, maintenance, service etc. °