Grounding Solar flexible lineset/copper

hot_rod

I believe Wisconsin requires thermal collector grounding. Braided copper from the panel to a stake, I forget what gauge they require? Maybe check with the FOCUS on energy website?

I have a copy of the 2006 Uniform Solar Code, no mention of grounding for thermal collectors.

Various jurisdictions can add additional requirements to the codes they adopt. Check with your AHJ to see what, if any code they use.

It would be wise to use the small lightning arrestors (surge protectors) for the sensors. It will at least help protect your controller from strikes.

Here is one version.

hr

singh

Recent CSST thread reminded me

about the requirement that all solar roof installs need to be grounded. Both copper and the flexible CSST linesets as well as the array.

How many of you guys are doing them?

I've been meaning to run a ground wire from my own array into a rod in the ground. I wonder if I can just clamp a bond wire to the water main?

Of course nothing will explode like CSST used for gas, but it sure won;t be pretty to have that expensive panel get hit by lightning.




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rene_4

I have a evac tube closed loop system. It flows through a 80 gallon indirect hot water tank. My domestic hot & cold water system/copper piping is grounded through my entrance panel. Am I safe????

singh

My understanding

is grounding is a direct path/ shortest distance to earth. Bonding is a copper wire clamped from one piece of equipment to another.
I think solar installations need to be grounded directly to earth. Seperate rod 6' into earth.
I thought the same thing saying my water service is a conductor, however I'm on a well and I've know my neighbor lost his well pump due to a lightning strike. Not sure if I want the solar array lightning path going through panel anyway.

Next check with your insurance company and see what kind of coverage is provided for a solar system and if this includes lightning strikes.

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rt_2

Hot Rod,
Where do you install these surge protectors? Right where the sensor lines exit the controller or next to the collectors? While your at it, shouldn't you also put one on the power line going to the controller? This will protect the controller and circulator from the electric side but the circulator and controller will not be protected from the loop (pipe) side unless you properly ground the collectors. Right???? SOOOOOOOOO much to think about!!!!
R

hot_rod

anywhere

in the collector sensor wiring. The one pictured is an indoor enclosure, so right above the controller location or in the attic where the sensor wire comes into the building.

It's a fuse, really so you want it somewhat accessible.

hr

singh

NEC

According to the National Electrical Code all solar panel systems need to be grounded.
So the gray area is if this also pertains solar thermal systems .

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Mark Custis

Good Point DS

With the CSST hub-bub mine will be grounded.

I am not sure that would be enough for a direct hit.

hot_rod

no amount of wire gauge

will be 100% lightning proof. According to the companies I have worked around that specalizes in that.

i remember one home with what looked like 2/0 welding cable attached to stakes every 10 feet around the home, on a mountain top. About 20 grand worth, no gaurentee written or applied.

hr