Outback FX-R Series Installation Manual

Planning

900-0166-01-01 Rev A

Renewable Energy

The FXR inverter cannot connect directly to PV, wind turbines, or other unregulated DC sources.

The batteries are the inverter’s primary source of power.

A renewable energy source is always treated as a battery charger, even if all of its power is used

immediately by the inverter. The renewable source must have a charge controller, or some other

regulation method, to prevent overcharging. OutBack Power’s FLEXmax family of charge

controllers can be used for this purpose, as can other products.

Battery Bank

When planning a battery bank, consider the following:



Cables

: Recommendations for battery cable size and length are shown on page 20. The maximum

length will determine the placement of the battery bank. Local codes or regulations may apply and may

take priority over OutBack recommendations.



Battery Type

: The FXR inverter/charger uses a three-stage charge cycle.

The default inverter/charger settings assume a deep-cycle stationary lead-acid battery, such as

OutBack’s EnergyCell RE or NC series batteries. The charging configuration is highly customizable

so that lithium-ion and other advanced chemistry charging cycles can be accommodated. Consult

the documentation for the specific batteries used in the system to ensure that the settings are

appropriate.



Nominal Voltage

: These inverters are designed to work with specific battery bank voltages, which are

different depending on inverter model. Before constructing a battery bank, check the inverter model and

confirm nominal battery voltage.



Charger Settings and Maintenance

: A vented battery enclosure may be required by electric code

and is usually recommended for safety reasons. It may be necessary to use a fan to ventilate the

battery enclosure.

Batteries must be regularly maintained according to the instructions of the battery manufacturer.

IMPORTANT:

Battery charger settings need to be correct for a given battery type. Always follow battery

manufacturer recommendations. Making incorrect settings, or leaving them at factory

default settings, may cause the batteries to be undercharged or overcharged.

CAUTION: Hazard to Equipment

Batteries can emit vapors which are flammable and which are corrosive over long periods

of time. Installing the inverter in the battery compartment may cause corrosion which is

not covered by the product warranty. (Sealed batteries may be an exception.)