[pvusers] Upgrading my system?

[Secola/Nieft <frisbee@aloha.net>]

Hi all,

My current system 24v in Hawaii (in place 3.5 years):

12 PV 75 watt modules
Trace DR 2424 inverter
12 L-16 (6v) wired in 3x4 for 1050 ah
generator backup
Sunfrost RF-12

I'm sick of defrosting the Sunfrost. I'm sick of running the generator,
which seems to have as much to do with how much frost build-up is in the
Sunfrost as much as the sunshine. (It is a humid climate, and I have messed
with the seals at least four times trying to get them airtight--doesn't
matter, I could defrost every week if I wanted. I'm sick of it.) Anyway, we
are about to upgrade our system so we can run the energy star 14cf Whirlpool
and dump the Sunfrost.

We are planning to add a Trace sw4024 (dump the DR2424), 4 more 75w PVs and
dump the L-16s for 16 Concordes (255ah/12v). I have done a million
calculations (not really) using several different sizing sheets (really) and
I can't figure out if it will handle the new load or not? Is there a simpler
calculation method starting with the "top". I need a 250-300 amp/hr/day
system. What does that translate to in batteries and PVs? What would it mean
to forgo the Whirlpool 14cf and get a 18cf at energy star rating or
430kw/year? Anybody?

I swear the calculations are made so that folks have to go to the experts
and nod yes yes yes Ok, do it. Maybe I'm just frustrated trying to figure
what it would cost to do without the Sunfrost.

Cheers,
Kirt 

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