GAF DecoTech RI 2000 User manual

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION 1 — INTRODUCTION................................................................................................................. 4
Abbreviations ..................................................................................................................................4
Symbol List .....................................................................................................................................4
Definitions .......................................................................................................................................5
GeneralSafetyPrecautions..............................................................................................................6
ElectricalSafety Precautions...........................................................................................................7
SECTION 2 — DECOTECH™ SOLAR SYSTEM OVERVIEW ............................................................................ 9
Main Components of the DecoTech™ Solar System......................................................................9
DecoTech™ Solar SystemParts....................................................................................................10
Array Configurations.....................................................................................................................12
Grounding......................................................................................................................................12
SECTION 3 — DECOTECH™ SOLAR SYSTEM CONSIDERATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS................................15
Design Considerations...................................................................................................................15
Installation Requirements..............................................................................................................17
Recommended Tools.....................................................................................................................18
Prior to Installation........................................................................................................................19
SECTION 4 — DECOTECH™ SOLAR SYSTEM INSTALLATION ......................................................................20
Step 1: Build the Solar Module Assembly ....................................................................................21
Step 2:Prep the Roof.....................................................................................................................25
Step 3: Install the Starter Bar.........................................................................................................31
Step 4: Install the First Row of Solar Module Assemblies ...........................................................33
Step 5: Install Remaining Solar Module Assemblies in the Solar Array......................................37
Step 6: Install Side Flashings ........................................................................................................38
Step 7: Install Top Flashings.........................................................................................................41
Step 8: Top Flashing Weatherization and Shingle Integration......................................................46
SECTION 5 — WIRING, LABELING, AND MONITORING.......................................................................49
Wiring............................................................................................................................................49
Solar System Safety Labels...........................................................................................................50
Monitoring.....................................................................................................................................51
SECTION 6 — DECOTECH™ SOLAR SYSTEM MAINTENANCE.....................................................................52

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SECTION 7 — APPENDIX ........................................................................................................................53
DecoTech™ Module Assembly Technical Data (Model RI 2000)................................................53
DecoTech™ Solar SystemCodes and Standards...........................................................................55
DecoTech™ Module Assembly Drawings.....................................................................................57
DecoTech™ Solar Array Drawing.................................................................................................57

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SECTION 1 — INTRODUCTION
The DecoTech™Solar System (also referred to as DecoTech™RI 2000) is designed by GAF, North America’s
largest roofing manufacturer. This solar roofing system was developed with roofing best practices, simplicityof
installationand design,performance, safety,and aesthetics in mind. The DecoTech™ Solar System featuressolar
laminates with integrated framing and racking. Power electronics (either AC or DC) can be integrated into the
DecoTech™Framed Module in the field. The DecoTech™ Solar System offers aestheticappeal with its low profile
design and black monochromatic color scheme. Its deck-mounting technology provides for faster installation
with high-performance watershedding.
This Manual contains safety, installation, and troubleshooting instructions for the DecoTech™ RI 2000.
READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS ENTIRELY AND THOROUGHLY TO ENSURE A PROBLEM-FREE
INSTALLATION.
Save this Manual and keep it in a readily accessible location for future reference. As part of its continuing
efforts to improve the performance of its products, GAF periodically makes changes to its products and
application specifications. GAF reserves the right to change or modify, atits discretion, any of the information,
requirements, specifications, or policies contained herein. Please be sure to check gafsolar.com for the most
up-to-date version of this Manual or any technical bulletins for this product.
Abbreviations
AC Alternating Current
AHJ Authority Having Jurisdiction
ANSI American National Standards Institute
ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials
AWG American Wire Gage
DC Direct Current
OCPD Overcurrent Protection Device
OSB Oriented Strand Board
OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration
MLPE Module Level Power Electronics
NEC National Electrical Code
NFPA National Fire ProtectionAssociation
MC Multi-Contact
PPE Personal ProtectiveEquipment
PV Photovoltaic
UL Underwriters Laboratories
Symbol List
CAUTION: The reader should use caution and fully understand the instructions before proceeding.
DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation. Failure to follow theseinstructions could lead to serious injury
or death.
NOTE: Follow these instructions closely for optimal system operations and best installation practices.
MOVE:Denotes direction of movement.

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Front
Back
Front
Back
Definitions
DecoTech™Framed Module (also known as solar module) — A complete environmentally protectedunit
consisting of a UL 1703-certified PV laminate and integrated framing. This solar module is assembled in
the factory and is designed to generate DC powerwhen exposed to sunlight. The solar module is shown
in Figure 1.
Figure 1: DecoTech™ Framed Module
DecoTech™Module Assembly (also known as solar module assembly) — A solar module with:
•Roof attachments (also known as solar mounting feet)
•A power electronics component (either a DC optimizer or an AC microinverter),
•Wire ties, and
•Grounding Lug.
Based on the type of MLPE used, the solar module assembly is designed to generateDC or AC powerwhen
exposed to light.This solar module assembly is put together in the fieldat ground level. The solar module
assembly is shown in Figure 2.
Figure 2: DecoTech™ Module Assembly
DecoTech™Solar Array (also known as solar array) —Solar module assemblies (DC modules or AC
modules) grouped together on top of the roof. The solar array is shown in Figure 3.
Figure 3: DecoTech™ Solar Array
PV
Laminate
DecoTech™
Frame
DecoTech™
Framed
Module

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DecoTech™Solar System (also known as solar system) — Solar array with the roofing underlayment,
external metallic flashing, and electrical components. The solar system is shown in Figure 4.
Figure 4: DecoTech™ Solar System
Follow the latest version of the NEC code for standard solar definitions.
General Safety Precautions
•Must be installed by a qualified person…The DecoTech™ Solar System must be installed by a PROPERLY
TRAINED and QUALIFIED INSTALLER. The installer must receive specialized SOLAR TRAINING and have
ROOFING EXPERIENCE in order to install the DecoTech™ Solar System.
•Follow OSHA…OSHA standards and requirements must be followed during installation.
•Wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)…Use proper PPE (Figure 5) and follow safety policies and
procedures. Proper PPE when dealing with rooftop solar systems includes, but is not limited to, the
following:
oHard hats… For falling objects, as well as risk of contact with energized conductors. An ANSI Z89
Class A helmet will satisfy this OSHA requirement.
oWork gloves…Forslip, abrasion, and thermalresistance. Solar modules tend to get very hot when
exposed directly to the sun.
oElectrically insulated gloves… When working on energized circuits.
oAppropriate footwear… Footwear with extra traction and/or heat-resistant soles.
oPersonal fall arrest system (PFAS)… Consists of an OSHA-approved anchor point, a full-body
harness approved for electrical workers, rope or cable, and specific connecting hardware.
oEye protection… For site-specific hazards.

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Figure 5: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
•Work only in dry conditions… Use dry equipment & dry tools. Protect all electrical equipment against
weather elements.
•Eliminate trip and fall hazards…Keep work areas on the roof and ground staging areas organized and
clean.
•Beware of “in-between” roof slopes…The DecoTech™ Solar System is installed without shingles
underneath the product. A “walkable” roof may not bewalkableonce theshingles are stripped off. A slope
of 6:12 and higher generally becomes unsafe to walk on after being stripped.
•No stacking of PV…Do not stack or store solar modules on the roof. For general safety of roofing
materials, use roof jacks, toe boards, or storage platforms secured to the underlying roof deck to prevent
slippage of stored roofing materials.
•Inspect for damages…Do not use DecoTech™ Solar System components if there are visible signs of
damage from transport or handling.
•Do not overload yourself…Always have two people carry the product by its frame on the roof.
•Snow guards…Snow guards should be used generously in extreme climates. The numberof snow guards
needed depends on thesizeand slopeof theroof. Insomeregions, additionalsnowguards will be required
to hold the additional weight of ice and snow during severe winters. Consult with the snow guard
manufacturer for further details.
Electrical Safety Precautions
•Must be competent with electrical safety work practices…The DecoTech™ Solar System is an electric-
poweredgeneration system. The installer must beknowledgeablein the safetywork practices forworking
with electrical sources.
•De-energize…All work must be performed on DC or AC circuits only after the circuits have been de-
energized.

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•Wiring on the roof…The installer must be trained in, and will be responsible for, the parallel pluggable
touch-safe AC or DC connections between the solar module assemblies.
•Use proper wire management techniques... Ensure that none of the AC or DC wires are pinched or
damaged during installation. Secure all loose cables with wire ties to the DecoTech™ Module Assembly.
•Do not modify factory-applied connectors, terminals, or jumper cables…Do not customizeor modify the
provided DC or AC cables or connectors in the field.
•Do not repair…The solar module assembly does not contain any user-serviceable parts. If the product
fails,itshould be replaced by contacting GAF. Tampering with the DecoTech™ ModuleAssembly will void
the warranty of the product.
•Thermal & voltage hazard…Certain parts of the DecoTech™ Module Assembly maybe extremelyhotdue
to the continued exposure to the sun. This unit should be installed in a location where it is protected
against casual contact. Certain parts may also be extremely hot and represent an electrical hazard while
servicing the system immediately following shutdown.
•Follow codes…Perform all electrical installationsinaccordance with any local codes and the NEC
(National Electrical Code) ANSI/NFPA 70for U.S. installations.
•Re-inspection…Regularly re-inspect the solar system to ensure that all fasteners are securely tightened
and corrosion-free; that wiring is securely connected and free of corrosion; and that cables are free of
damage. This is important especially after storms and in areas proneto hail and high winds. If any damage
is found, the DecoTech™ Module Assembly should be replaced immediately.
•Be aware of ground faults…Grounded conductors may become ungrounded and energized when a
ground fault is indicated, resulting in risk of electricshock. Prior to touching any part of the product, use
care to ensure surfaces and equipment are at touch-safe temperatures and voltagepotentials (by testing
with a multimeter) before proceeding. Anytime the AC microinverter or DC optimizer has been
disconnected from the power network, use extreme caution as some components can retain a charge
sufficient enough to create a shock hazard.
•Licensed electrician…Installing ACor DC combined circuits, switches,tie-into the PV point of connection,
OCPDs, and initialstartup of the PV system must be performed by a licensed electrician. Make all electrical
connections (e.g., conductortermination, fuses, potential earth connection, etc.) in accordance with the
electrical standards prescribed by the applicable NEC wiring methods and/or by other local regulations
and codes.

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SECTION 2 - DECOTECH™ SOLAR SYSTEM OVERVIEW
Main Components of the DecoTech™ Solar System
The three main components of the DecoTech™Solar System are:
The electrical inverter, disconnects, metering & monitoring solutions are dependent on the type of MLPE
used and the utility. Refer to the MLPE manufacturer’s website for more information. Figure 6 is a
graphical representation of the DecoTech™ Solar System components.
Figure 6: Main components of the DecoTech™Solar System
•Attaches to the deck & is installed underneath the DecoTech™
Solar Array
•ProvidesaClass A fire ratingforthe entire DecoTech™SolarSystem
•Provides secondary leak protection
Underlayment System
•These units are deck-mounted UL 1703-certifiedsolarlaminates
with integrated framing and racking, integrated power electronics,
and flashing components
DecoTech™ Module
Assembly
•Connects to all solar module assemblies in a solar array
•Brings the power from the solararray to the load center
AC or DC Wiring
Underlayment
System
DecoTech™
Module Assembly
AC or DC Wiring
Monitoring
Inverter,
Disconnects and
Metering

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DecoTech™ Solar System Parts
Table 1 shows the parts provided to the installerto build the DecoTech™ Solar System model RI 2000.
DecoTech™ Module Assembly Components
DecoTech™ Framed Module [SKU 2947100]
Solar Mounting Feet
[SKU 2947102]
Solar Mounting Feet
with MLPE [SKU
2947101]
MLPE
WEEB® Grounding
Lug & Washer
Starter Bar Components
Starter Bar Cover (left & right)
[SKU 2947306 & 2947307]
Starter Bar [SKU 2947202]
Flashing Components
Counterflashing (left & right)
[SKU 2947300 & 2947301]
Top Flashing [SKU 247302]
Top Corner Flashing (left & right)
[SKU 2947303 & 2947304]
Top Flashing Support [SKU 2947308]