For the Latest Solar related Articles:
System Monitoring
Q1: Why do I need a system monitor
A1: A system monitor is a critical component in any efficient solar system. Imagine a car with no gauges, you would easily blow engines and pick up a lot of speeding tickets!! To operate a solar system effectively you need to monitor PV yield, Battery Performance, peak and general loads, Mains usage, etc. Also, if you do have a warranty claim for batteries, as an example, you have data audit trail which can be used to substantiate your claim.
Q2: What is the best type of monitor
A2: The best type of monitors are those that show both AC and DC performance. For monitoring battery performance you need a system with a ‘shunt’ for it to be at all accurate. It is also advisable to have the data “In The Cloud’ - so that your supporting company (if you have one) can monitor your system’s performance. (This we do at SUNBUSTERS, as a free service).
Q3: Can I see my system’s performance on a mobile device
A3: Most of the modern solar system monitors which can be put on the Internet, enable you to monitor your system’s performance from a Laptop, Tablet, I-Pad, Phablet and Smart phone.
Q4: Is it possible to change system settings remotely
A4: If your system has the facility to be seen in “The Cloud’, then many systems have the ability to operate a ‘remote Dashboard’ which enables your supporting company (if you have one) to monitor and ‘finesse’ your system to ensure optimal performance.
Q5: Will the system show my actual panel performance against optimal
A5: Some systems do, most systems don’t – but watch this space as it is a dynamic industry and there is a big demand for this facility.
Q6:Will the monitor warn me when Mains fails
A6: Not audibly, but visually. You can have a separate audible alarm installed to warn you when there is a Mains failure - so that you can shut off certain appliances to save power and extend your ability to support those appliances that are critical for you.
Q7: What should I really be looking for when monitoring a solar system
A7: There are many facets to monitoring a solar system. Critical factors are the performance of the battery bank; how much Mains power you are using; how consistent your yield is in relation to your optimum potential; how often your Inverter is overloaded and much more (refer Sunbusters’ website presentation on Solar Monitoring)