Solar components in root cellar

Arkansasoffgrid · September 2023

Beginning a new home that will have a root cellar underneath it. Would like to install all solar components/batteries in cellar if humidity won’t cause issues,
Anyone aware of electronics/components having a specified temperature and or humidity range?

littleharbor2 · September 2023

Marine rated controllers and inverters are built to tolerate harsh environments.

SteveK · September 2023

Yes, most all have a specified temp and humidity range. Some list them and some don't. In the case of an inverter and charge controller you will see they are actually derated once a certain temp is reached. Victron for example will reduce it's inverter output based on temperature so they only guaranty full rated output at temps below ~75F.

As for humidity most modern quality electronics in this space are rated at 85+% RH non-condensing. The thing about humidity is the component itself will usually not see the environmental (room measured) humidity because when they are in operation they are self heated which helps to control condensation and humidity inside it. Similar to the Goldenrod heater you may have tossed in to your gun safe to keep the rust down.

Victron inverters, marine oriented like littleharbor mentioned, are rated at 95% RH. I'd imagine your Magnum is not far off that mark.

The real question is what you will allow your root cellar to operate at. You do have some control by design.

BB. · September 2023

Humidity is an enemy of electronics. Probably right after temperature, temperature cycling, and vibration.

If there is a chance of condensation in the root cellar, I would either not do it, or setup better ventilation/moisture control. The condensation is going to be worse with "warm ground" and "cool/cold" electronics.

You will probably see 5% to 95% non-condensing relative humidity spec (random Schneider XW Pro specification):

https://www.solar-electric.com/lib/wind-sun/Context-XW-PRO-NA-Installation-Guide.pdf

But the "killer" is the non-condensing spec. The walls/ground tend to be fairly temperature stable (and can be a source of moisture).

The typical "metal" cabinet/electronics can easily have wide swings in temperature (say bring in cold outside air mixed with cellar air as an example).

Warm air "holds" much more H2O vs cold air... "Cooling" a (relatively) humid room can easily condense water onto the "colder" surfaces.

Anything metal in the cellar? Cans/jars/equipment? Do you have problems with "rust/corrosion/rusty haze?

-Bill

Arkansasoffgrid · January 28

Cellar will have two air inlets, and two outlets that are 3 inch diameter. Not certain of the actual humidity since it is being built now, but there will be consistent airflow moving.
Was really just curious if any members here have mounted/installed their electronics in a basement or non-climate controlled area.

Dave Angelini · January 29

Yes many times ! However, if you plan to carry Home insurance, you need to get you installation inspected by your AHJ. I have seen where an insurance claim was denied. At the very least you should declare this to your insurance company. Insurance companies can change their requirements and so an inspection prior to installation by your AHJ is the way to go, if you carry a policy.

Many do go uninsured offgrid and that is even more reason to exceed the requirements and to start, you need the best diligence to be informed on requirements. Good Luck with your home !

Solar components in root cellar

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