STORZ POWER SOL-ARK 12k User manual

CONTACT US
Phone .................................. 1-833-786-7901
Email .......................... [e-mail]
Website ............................ www.storzpower.com
ESS INSTALLATION MANUAL
VERSION 1.1
ATTENTION: This guide is for qualied users only. Strictly follow this user manual and pay close attention to all warnings.
DO NOT operate or install this product before reading this entire INSTALLATION GUIDE.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Disclaimer ......................................................................1
Safety Instructions ...............................................................1
FCC Information To The User.......................................................5
Installation Overview..............................................................5
Component Guide ................................................................6
System Placement................................................................7
Transfer Switch ..................................................................8
Mounting .......................................................................9
Dimensions ....................................................................11
Battery Wiring ..................................................................12
Backup Gas Generator Setup & Sensor Placement....................................15
Testing ........................................................................17
Battery Settings & Wifi Setup ......................................................19
IP Address Setup................................................................28
E.M.P. Suppressor Installation .....................................................31
Rapid Shutdown Diagrams........................................................32
Specifications ..................................................................35
Off Grid Tips & Grid Tie/No Batt Tips ...............................................37
Grid Tie/No Battery Install Tips ....................................................38
Powering On The System/Indicator LEDs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39
Selecting Power Modes/Sensors...................................................40
Battery Setting & Limiter Sensor Auto-Setup.........................................44
Screens........................................................................51
Troubleshooting Guide / Error Codes ...............................................63
Common Battery Application NOTES ...............................................67
Wire Gauge Guide ...............................................................72
Parallel System Application Note / Compatibility Reference ............................73
Modbus/Rs485 Pin Out And Registers + Torque Values ................................77
System Wire Diagrams ...........................................................79
Install Testing Checklist ..........................................................87
Warranties .....................................................................90

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DISCLAIMER
Unless specifically agreed to in writing, Sol-Ark/Storz Power:
(a) MAKES NO WARRANTY AS TO THE ACCURACY, SUFFICIENCY OR SUITABILITY OF
ANY TECHNICAL OR OTHER INFORMATION PROVIDED IN ITS MANUALS OR OTHER
DOCUMENTATION.
(b) ASSUMES NO RESPONSIBILITY OR LIABILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE, WHETHER DIRECT,
INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, OR INCIDENTAL, WHICH MIGHT ARISE OUT OF THE USE OF SUCH
INFORMATION. THE USE OF ANY SUCH INFORMATION WILL BE ENTIRELY AT THE USER’S RISK.
Sol-Ark/Storz Power CANNOT be responsible for system failure, damages, or injury resulting from
improper installation of their products.
Information included in this manual is subject to change without notice. Sol-Ark Power 12K inverter
should be installed by qualied persons only.
This version is for OUTDOOR MODELS ONLY, previous hardware versions of the Sol-Ark 12K are not
compatible with the wire diagrams and instructions contained herein.
SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS
Read and save these instructions - DO NOT DISCARD!
The addition of this symbol to a “Danger” or “Warning” safety label indicates that an electrical
hazard exists which will result in personal injury if the instructions are not followed.
This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards.
Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death.
DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or
serious injury.
WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death
or serious injury.
CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or
moderate injury.
NOTICE: Is used to address practices not related to physical injury. The safety alert symbol shall not
be used with this signal word.

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1. Important Safety Information
1. Before using the Sol-Ark 12K, read all instructions and cautionary markings on the unit,
the batteries, and all appropriate sections of this manual.
2. Use of accessories not recommended or sold by the manufacturer may result in a risk of
re, electric shock, or injury to persons.
3. The inverter is designed to be permanently connected to your AC and DC electrical
systems. The manufacturer recommends that all wiring be done by a certied technician
or electrician to ensure adherence to the local and national electrical codes applicable in
your jurisdiction.
4. To avoid a risk of re and electrical short-circuits or arcing, make sure that existing wiring
is in good condition and that wire is not undersized. Do not operate the inverter with
damaged or substandard wiring.
5. DO NOT operate the inverter if it has been damaged in any way.
6. This unit does not have any user-serviceable parts. Do not disassemble the inverter except
where noted for connecting wiring and cabling. See your warranty for instructions on
obtaining service. Attempting to service the unit yourself may result in a risk of electrical
shock or re. Internal capacitors remain charged after all power is disconnected.
7. To reduce the risk of electrical shock, disconnect both AC and DC power from the inverter
before attempting any maintenance or cleaning or working on any components connected
to the inverter. Putting the unit in Standby mode will not reduce this risk.
8. The inverter must be provided with an equipment-grounding conductor connected to the
AC input ground.
9. Do not expose this unit to rain, snow, or liquids of any type. This product is designed for
indoor use only. Damp environments will signicantly shorten the life of this product and
corrosion caused by dampness will not be covered by the product warranty.
10. To reduce the chance of short-circuits, always use insulated tools when installing or
working with this equipment.
11. Remove personal metal items such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and watches when
working with electrical equipment.
WARNING
1. System must have ground
2. System must have neutral
3. Solar PV+/PV- are ungrounded
4. Ground must be bonded to neutral once in circuit.
Failure to follow these instructions can damage the Sol-Ark 12K
and will VOID the product warranty.

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DANGER
HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, EXPLOSION, OR ARC FLASH
•Apply appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow safe
electrical work practices. See NFPA 70E or CSA Z462.
•This equipment must only be installed and serviced by qualied electrical
personnel.
•Never operate energized with covers removed.
•Energized from multiple sources. Before removing covers identify all sources,
de-energize, lock-out, and tag-out and wait 2 minutes for circuits to discharge.
•Always use a properly rated voltage sensing device to conrm all circuits are
de-energized.
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
DANGER
HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, EXPLOSION, OR ARC FLASH
•Remove watches, rings, or other metal objects.
•This equipment must only be installed and serviced by qualied electrical
personnel.
•Keep sparks and ames away from the batteries.
•Use tools with insulated handles.
•Wear protective glasses, gloves and boots.
• Do not lay tools or other metal parts on top of batteries.
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

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DANGER
HAZARD OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, EXPLOSION, OR ARC FLASH
•Battery Circuit Breakers must be installed according to the specications and
requirements dened by Sol-Ark/Storz Power.
•Servicing of batteries must only be performed by qualied personnel
knowledgeable about batteries and the required precautions. Keep unqualied
personnel away from batteries.
•Disconnect the charging source prior to connecting or disconnecting battery
terminals.
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
2. Limitations on Use
WARNING
LIMITATIONS ON USE
This device is not intended for use in connection with life support
systems or other medical equipment or devices.
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
3. Explosive Gas Precautions
WARNING
EXPLOSION HAZARD
This equipment is not ignition protected. To prevent re or explosion, do not
install this product in locations that require ignition-protected equipment. This
includes any space containing gasoline-powered machinery, fuel tanks, as well
as joints, ttings, or other connections between components of the fuel system.
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.

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FCC INFORMATION TO THE USER
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device,
pursuant to part 15 of the FCC Rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection
against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions,
may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that
interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful
interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment
off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the
following measures:
STEP 1: Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
STEP 2: Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
STEP 3: Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the
receiver is connected.
STEP 4: Consult with customer service or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
INSTALLATION OVERVIEW
Inspect Shipment
a. Compare the package condition to the condition of the package in the photo we sent
you before it left our facility. You must note any damage due to shipping with delivery
driver before accepting the package otherwise the shipping company will deny
any claim.
b. If damaged, contact us immediately at 1-833-786-7901.
ATTENTION
Check to make sure your Sol-Ark has the latest rmware installed.

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COMPONENT GUIDE
a. Limiter Sensors included: 5/8” CT sensors x2
b. Limiter Sensors if purchased: 15/16” CT sensors x2
c. Limiter Sensors if purchased: 2” CT sensors x2
d. Battery Temperature Sensor: for voltage adjustment
e. Battery Cable Toroid x2
f. CAT 5 cable for parallel communications
g. Allen Key: for opening the user area of the system
h. French Cleat: For wall mounting the Sol-Ark 12K
i. WiFi Plug: For software updates and remote monitoring (use screws to hold in!)

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SYSTEM PLACEMENT
4. Component Distance Guide
WIRE RUN LENGTH: See diagram for wire gauge (AWG) recommendations, page 68 for
complete detail.
WARNING
If programmed to smart load DO NOT connect generator to Gen port.
Failure to follow these instructions can damage the Sol-Ark 12K
and will VOID the product warranty.
5. Decide Critical Backup Circuits
a. Subpanels are recommended and are required if you have Arc-Fault/GFI breakers.
b. IMPORTANT: Make sure to keep within inverter amperage limits (per inverter):
- On Grid = 63A continuous (pass-through)
- Off Grid = 37.5A continuous/83A peak
c. Verify each load circuit by measuring typical and max Amps with a clip-on Amp meter.
Amps x 120V = Watts.
d. If you have Arc-Fault/GFI breakers in your main panel we recommend that you install
a subpanel for your backup loads, not a multi-circuit transfer switch.
e. If using multiple 12K units in parallel, consider powering the main breaker panel
directly as shown in diagram 5. (Example: 3 systems will have a total of 189A of pass
through @ 240V.

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TRANSFER SWITCH
6. Mount Multi-Circuit Transfer Switch (Not valid for Arc-Fault/GFI breakers)
OR Critical Loads Panel
STEP 1: Turn off main breaker
STEP 2: Connect White/Neutral wire (4 AWG) to Neutral Bar
STEP 3: Connect Green/Ground wire (6 AWG) to Ground Bar
STEP 4: Remove load wire (12 AWG) from circuit breaker and connect it to the black
“A” wire (12 AWG) with a wire nut.
STEP 5: Place red “A” wire (12 AWG) from the switch into breaker.
STEP 6: Repeat steps 4-5 for circuits A-J
NOTE: All AC wires should be 4 AWG
Important Notes:
•When the transfer switch is in the “Gen” position, this means the circuit is being powered
by the Sol-Ark (which can use Grid/Solar/Battery/Generator automatically).
•When in the “Line” position, the transfer switch is being powered by the grid (Sol-Ark
can be removed). The transfer switch setup is complete once all the switches are set to
“Gen” position.

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•The Sol-Ark will take care of the rest.
•If you are not installing a transfer switch (Off Grid or have a 50A sub-load panel), you can
wire the “Load” output of the Sol-Ark 12K directly to a Main Lug breakers sub-panel rated
for at least 50A.
DANGER
PLEASE REFER TO DIAGRAMS SECTION FOR COMPLETE WIRE DIAGRAM
•Strain Reliefs must be used for all wires going in/out of the Sol-Ark 12K user
area.
•Ground and neutral must be wired as shown above, or damage can occur.
•Conduit (or double insulated wire) must be used for the AC Wires going to and
from the Sol-Ark.
•DO NOT CONNECT THE GRID TO THE LOAD OUTPUT BREAKER
Failure to follow these instructions will result in death or serious injury.
7. Single System Installs: Install Double Pole 60A breaker in Main Panel for Grid In/Out
a. It is best practice to install at the opposite end of the bus bar from the main breaker
(Usually this is the bottom of the breaker panel as seen on page 8).
8. Multi System Installs: Line side tap recommended for grid connection point
a. Please see diagram 5 for an example.
MOUNTING
9. Mount Sol-Ark 12K
a. Find a suitable location for the system(s), keeping in mind the dimensions in Fig. 1 below.
b. While the Sol-Ark 12K does not yet have an ofcial NEMA rating for outdoor use, you can
install the system outside and the warranty will be honored.
c. LCD screen should be protected from excessive UV exposure.
d. The system weighs 78lbs (35kg), be sure to attach it securely to the wall. You may need to
afx a mounting board to your wall rst using 6-8 screws into studs.
e. Then use 2-3 screws (appropriate in length and type for your mounting surface) to mount
the French Cleat to the board/wall (washers recommended).
f. Mount the Sol-Ark on the installed cleat making sure that it sits properly and is level.
g. Add 2 screws in bottom mounts.
Sensor Pin Out (Located in Sol-Ark user area)
1. (1, 2) Batt Temp: Battery Temperature Sensor has no polarity and is needed for voltage
correction when using lead acid batteries.

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2. (+3, -4) CT1 & (+5,-6) CT2: Current transformers used for limited to home mode and
peak shaving
3. (7, 8) Gen Start Relay: Two wire start for generators, simple open or closed relay
4. (9, 10) Gen On Relay: Not currently used
5. (B 11, B 12) Emergency Stop: Short these pins to initiate emergency stop. This will
shutdown AC output from the inverter and initiate rapid shutdown of the PV.
6. (+13, -14) Optional 12V input signal for RSD
7. (+15, -16) 12V power supply for RSD transmitters: Such as TIGO and Midnite Rated for
a maximum of 1.2W (100mA @12V)

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DIMENSIONS
Note: 6" minimum clearance (12" if next to another system)
TEMPERATURE DERATING
•DC: 90C-100C Shutdown @ 100C
•AC: 75C-82C Shutdown @ 82C

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BATTERY WIRING
10. Connect Batteries (Sol-Ark should be POWERED “OFF”)
a. Connect the batteries to the Sol-Ark 12K as shown in the diagrams Fig. B below:
b. Fig. A: Install included ferrites on the battery input cables (show below). Slide the ferrite
over the battery cables so that both cables are within the toroid (as shown in Fig. A).
c. When connecting batteries make sure the built-in battery disconnect is in the off position
while the batteries are connected, or arcing will occur.
d. Multi-system installs:
e. All systems in parallel are connected to the same battery bank, with each system having
its own battery cables to connect to the same large battery bank. Do not use separate
battery banks for parallel systems.
F. Recommended 100 Amp applications:
- Minimum use of 4 AWG interconnecting wire should be UL 1015 rated 600V/105C°.
G. Recommended 185 Amp applications:
- Suggested use of 2/0 interconnecting wire should be UL 1015 rated 600V/105C°.
WARNING
DO NOT reverse polarity of batteries! Damage will occur!
Failure to follow these instructions will damage the batteries
and will VOID the product warranty.
WARNING
Before powering up Multi-System installs please see
multi-system app notes
Failure to follow these instructions will result in damage t Sol-Artk 12K and/or
the batteries, and will VOID the product warranty.

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SOLAR PANEL WIRING
11. Solar Panel Install
1. Sol-Ark 12K has 2 separate pairs of solar panel inputs. (Dual MPPT)
3. Max PV input: 13,000W(+/- 5%) per system (6,500W per MPPT) PV = 500Voc Max
4. Max Isc input per MPPT: 25A (self-limiting to 20A @450Voc/300Vmp or 18A @
500Voc/400Vmp)
Note: Damage will occur if PV Voc > 550V.
4. Connect the strings of solar panels to the system as shown on pages 13/14.
5. Parallel strings per MPPT must be the same voltage, PV1A/B must be the same voltage if
both are used (see Fig. E). It is OK if panels for panels on the same MPPT to face different
directions.
6. Panel frame grounding can be done to any ground in the home via 12AWG wire. Mounts
usually bond frames together, so only 1 ground wire is needed.
Note: Max Panels in Series (Rule of Thumb, always verify the string characteristics
are within spec):
60 Cell: 10 72 Cell: 9 96 Cell: 6

14
If using Y-Connectors: (Running two strings in parallel, totaling 20A (self-limiting) Note: separate
wires can be used per string, and string minimum is usually 5 panels or 175V)

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BACKUP GAS GENERATOR SETUP &
SENSOR PLACEMENT
12. Connecting a Generator (240V/208V only)
a. Generators smaller than 10kW - See diagram 1
i. Connect the generator output to the “Gen” input breaker in the Sol-Ark 12K user panel.
ii. Only 240V/208V generators are supported.
iii. THD of less than 15% preferred but not required.
iv. If you have AC coupled solar panels and a generator then you must use the TOU
setting to prevent the generator from being called for during the daytime or else
damage will occur. Simply uncheck the “charge” checkbox for time slots that may
have PV production.
v. If Off-Grid, connect the generator output to the “Grid” input in the Sol-Ark and
select the “GEN connected to Grid input” option in the Sell Control tab of the Grid
Setup Menu.
1. Home Screen > Gear Icon > Grid Setup > Sell Control
vi. Gen peak shaving mode is used to prevent the Sol-Ark from overloading small
generators. The CT sensors must be placed so that they measure L1 and L2 of the
generators output and the arrows on the CTs will point toward the generator. The
“Power” value is the threshold at which the Sol-Ark will contribute and prevent the
generator from being overloaded. This mode will auto adjust the gen charge amperage
to prevent overload.
b. Standby Generators >10kW - See diagram 3
i. If Off-Grid, you may connect the generator output directly to the “Grid” input on the
Sol-Ark 12K. The Sol-Ark 12K will perceive the generator as if it were the grid. You will
need to select the “GEN connected to Grid input” option in the Sell Control tab of the
Grid Setup Menu.
1. Home Screen > Gear Icon > Grid Setup > Sell Control
ii. If you have AC coupled solar panels and a generator then you must use the TOU
setting to prevent the generator from being called for during the daytime or else
damage will occur. Simply uncheck the “charge” checkbox for time slots that may
have PV production.
iii. Being Off-Grid, you will have “Grid Sell” off and will only need CT sensors if you plan
to use Gen peak shaving mode. See description above.
iv. To make your generator work better with the Sol-Ark: Under “Grid Setup” do the
following:
1. Select “Limited to Load”
2. Select “General Standard”
3. Increase Grid frequency range: 55-65Hz
v. If using a large generator with a whole home transfer switch, we suggest not using the
“Gen” input breakers in the Sol-Ark. Instead, use the existing home wiring to distribute

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the generator’s power (through your existing “Gen” transfer switch, usually to the main
panel in the home or building).
13. Sensor and Accessory Placement
a. Limiter Sensors (CT Sensors)
i. Install on incoming electrical service wires on L1 and L2 (see diagram pg. 11). Required
if in Limited To Home Mode (meter zero) and Peak Shaving. Please check your wire
size before ordering to ensure the sensors will t.
b. Battery Temp Sensor
i. Place between batteries, tape is a common mounting method. (See Fig. F). Note: Temp
sensor is not required for lithium batteries. This sensor has no polarity when connecting
to the sensor input of the Sol-Ark.
[Fig F ]
c. CanBus & RS485
i. To connect batteries to the Sol-Ark 12K via RJ45, you will need to splice the end that
connects to the Sol-Ark 12K. Use the middle two conductors.
ii. RS485 is SunSpec draft 4 (will not work with draft 3)
d. Gen Start Signal (Two-Wire)

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i. Normally open relay that closes when the Gen Start state is active
ii. If your generator only starts with the loss of 120/240V to the generator, we suggest
using a DPST relay to the output of the inverter.
e. PV Rapid Shutdown Signal
i. 12v signal/200mA power is present until the Sol-Ark is shut down with the front button
f. Emergency Stop Signal
i. Use a normally open switch to connect the two emergency stop pins, when triggered,
the RSD power supply will be cut and the inverter AC output will be stopped.
g. WI-FI Antenna
i. Needed for remote monitoring and/or software updates.
TESTING
14. Testing and powering up sol-ark 12k
a. Check Voltage of each PV input circuit
i. Should be no higher than 500Vdc open circuit temperature corrected.
ii. DO NOT connect PV+ OR PV- to GND.
iii. Good to verify polarity (if polarity is backwards the Sol-Ark will show a Voltage of 0V).
b. Check Grid Input Voltage (voltages shown are for North America)
i. Ensure 120Vac L1 to Neutral and L2 to Neutral.
ii. Ensure 240Vac L1 and L2.
iii. Check Neutral and Ground are ~0V AC.
c. Check Battery voltage
i. Turn on battery switch (if using a Lithium battery).
ii. Turn on the built-in battery disconnect in the user area of the Sol-Ark.
iii. Voltage should be 45Vdc-60Vdc.
d. If all checks out, Turn on Breakers for Grid and Load, Turn PV Disconnect knob to “On”
i. Note: (If PV is backwards: Sol-Ark will show a voltage of 0 for PV)
e. System will boot up with power from PV, Grid, or ON/Off Batt.
f. Press the ON/OFF Button on the front, light should come on.
g. If you installed limit sensors for Limited To Home selling mode, it is critical you verify the
proper sensor placement and direction. (Auto learn function avoids this section if not 208V
or a no battery install, function can be found under the advanced tab of the basic setup
menu in settings).
i. Using AC multi-meter, verify L1 voltage on AC in/out is 0Vac with main L1 connection
in panel. Same for L2.
ii. To verify sensor connections to Sol-Ark, try removing one sensor from the main L1
connection. The power should drop to 0W.
iii. To verify proper sensor direction, with any loads in the home, the HM: +watts will be

18
positive. If you turn on solar panels and turn enable Grid Sell, you should see HM:
-watts if you are producing more power than the loads are consuming. And if you turn
on limited power to Home mode, then HM: ~0 watts to zero the meter (system matches
the loads to within 99%).
15. Basic Setup
a. Display: Auto dim must be enabled for LCD screen to be covered by warranty. Color LCD
screens dim if left on continuously for years.
b. Time: Set date and time for the system
16. Programming Battery Settings
a. Battery Capacity
i. This allows Sol-Ark to know the size of the battery bank. The system is also self-
learning as batteries age.
ii. Main Menu > System Settings > Battery Setup > Batt > Batt Capacity
b. Use Battery Voltage or % Charged
i. Use whatever you are comfortable with. Most installers prefer voltage, while most
homeowners prefer
% Charged. (Note: if Lithium BMS is selected but not present, Sol-Ark will force Voltage
mode)
c. Battery Charge & Discharge Current
i. For a list of settings for commonly used batteries see the application note section of
this manual.
ii. For AGM and Flooded, we recommend Ah battery size x 20% = Charge/Discharge
amps
iii. For Lithium, we recommend Ah battery size x 50% = Charge/Discharge amps
iv. For Gel, follow manufacturer’s instructions.
v. When Off Grid, The Sol-Ark will shut down if Max discharge current is exceeded for 10
seconds.
f. Battery Discharge
i. Allows the user to dene the depth of discharge the system will allow before using the
grid/generator to the charge the battery bank. Solar is always the priority in charging
the battery bank.
ii. Main Menu > System Settings > Battery Setup > Discharge
16. Grid Setup
a. Grid Sell: maximum watts sold to grid
b. Limited To Home: Limits power produced by the system to match the demand of the
home
c. Limited To Load: Limits power produced by the system to match the demand of
connected loads
d. Time of Use: Use battery power to support the programmed mode at selectable times/
watts/DoD