Placing and securing inverters to vinyl siding

[ajpslp]

Does anyone have actual pics that shows their inverters meters and shut offs attached to vinyl siding of house? Im having mine done in 2 weeks and need some pics . Im afraid that once they secure it to studies behind vinyl siding the siding will be "pinched " or dented in. Just trying to see if its better to have a cut out of siding and place some plywood inside the cutoff and cover with another type of flat type of vinyl so it will look good . Any pics to ajp656@gmail.com or posted here would be great. Sunpower 12.06 KW system soon to be installed , can't wait !
thanks all

[Mike90250]

Inverters are heavy enough to mash vinyl siding flat. Add some afternoon heat, and it's now set that way.
I think it's a bad idea.

[ajpslp]

Ok i respect ur opinion but why would it be a bad idea to cut the vinyl siding say in a nice square , place some plywood into the open square sone j channel moulding around it and cover it with flat type of vinyl sheathing .then attach inverters shutoff and meter inside this square ? Thought it would look more pleasing then mushed down siding ???

[russ]

A work around like you came up with should do the trick.

Like Mike mentioned - the inverters are heavy and when you add ambient temperature into the picture many things would be deformed.

[inetdog]

Ok i respect ur opinion but why would it be a bad idea to cut the vinyl siding say in a nice square , place some plywood into the open square sone j channel moulding around it and cover it with flat type of vinyl sheathing .then attach inverters shutoff and meter inside this square ? Thought it would look more pleasing then mushed down siding ???

A good idea structurally and aesthetically.
Just make sure that:
A: You do not restrict the horizontal expansion of the existing siding by fixing the cut ends rigidly in place.
B. You flash or otherwise make very sure that no rain water or other moisture will get behind the siding as a result.
You could also mount the inverters and boxes using machine threaded/ wood threaded double ended screw studs with the wood screw thread going into your 2x4s or blocking. By putting a backing nut on the threaded portion you can then mount the equipment with whatever clearance space from the siding you want. That would also give you an easy place to put in vibration isolation if you find that the inverter is sending too much hum or other noise into your wall structure.

[peakbagger]

I agree that the proposed cut out with J moulding is the way to go with spacers under the inverters. My Fronius inverter has an air intake on the side and a discharge at the top that would be partially blocked by the J channel unless spaced out from the wall a bit. One caveat is that over the long run that warm space is good place for insects to nest in. You will need to keep and eye on it. It will not hurt the inverter but it depends on the insect that moves in.

[ajpslp]

dealer sent me the pic below and looks fine so think ill tell electricians and installers specific instructions to look like the pic
Yee Inverters (open trough)1.pdf

thoughts

[NiHaoMike]

Does anyone have actual pics that shows their inverters meters and shut offs attached to vinyl siding of house? Im having mine done in 2 weeks and need some pics . Im afraid that once they secure it to studies behind vinyl siding the siding will be "pinched " or dented in. Just trying to see if its better to have a cut out of siding and place some plywood inside the cutoff and cover with another siding installations indiana type of flat type of vinyl so it will look good . Any pics to ajp656@gmail.com or posted here would be great. Sunpower 12.06 KW system soon to be installed , can't wait !
thanks all

When installing inverters and other equipment on vinyl siding, it's essential to consider the aesthetics and potential impact on the siding. While I can't provide specific images, I can offer some suggestions:

1. Consult with your solar installer: Reach out to your solar installer and express your concerns about the installation of the inverters and other equipment on your vinyl siding. They should be able to provide guidance and potentially show you examples of previous installations they have done.
2. Request examples from the installer: Ask your solar installer if they have any pictures or references of previous installations they have completed that showcase the inverters and shut-offs attached to vinyl siding. They may be able to provide you with visual examples or direct you to satisfied customers who have shared their installation experiences.
3. Consider alternative mounting options: If you are concerned about potential damage or aesthetic issues with your vinyl siding, discuss alternative mounting options with your installer. They may be able to suggest different approaches that minimize the impact on your siding or offer solutions such as cut-outs with added layers for reinforcement.

Remember, it's essential to communicate your concerns and preferences to your solar installer before the installation takes place. They will have the expertise and experience to address your specific needs and find a solution that meets both your aesthetic requirements and the functional requirements of the equipment.

[Mike 134]

Post #3 is the method I used.

mounting.jpg