Qoltec Hybrid Solar Inverter Off-Grid User Manual

Thank you for choosing our solar inverter. This manual will guide you through the setup, installation, operation, and troubleshooting of your new device. Please read this manual carefully before installation and use.

About This Manual

This manual provides instructions for assembling, installing, operating, and troubleshooting the Qoltec Hybrid Solar Inverter Off-Grid. It also includes safety guidelines and wiring information.

Product Overview

The Qoltec Hybrid Solar Inverter is a versatile device that combines the functions of an inverter, solar charger, and battery charger. It offers uninterrupted power supply and features a user-friendly LCD display for easy configuration of charging current, AC/solar charging priority, and input voltage.

Product Components (Illustration 1)

• 1. LCD Display
• 2. Status Indicator
• 3. Charging Indicator
• 4. Fault Indicator
• 5. Function Buttons
• 6. Grounding Terminal
• 7. AC Input
• 8. AC Output
• 9. Battery Input
• 10. PV Input
• 11. Wi-Fi Communication Port
• 12. On/Off Switch

Installation

I. Preparation

Before installation, inspect the unit for any damage. Ensure all components listed in the manual are present in the package.

II. Unit Installation

Follow these guidelines when selecting a mounting location:

• Do not install the inverter on flammable building materials.
• Mount on a solid surface.
• Install at eye level for easy viewing of the LCD display.
• Optimal operating temperature is between 0°C and 55°C.
• Vertical wall mounting is recommended.
• Ensure adequate space around the unit for heat dissipation and cable management.

NOTE: For installation on concrete or other non-combustible surfaces only.

Secure the unit using three screws (M4 or M5 recommended).

III. Battery Connection

NOTE: For safe operation and compliance with regulations, a DC disconnect switch or fuse must be installed between the battery and the inverter. The fuse size should be based on the typical current rating.

WARNING: All wiring should be performed by qualified personnel.

Use the recommended cable size, length, and stripping length (L1, L2) as specified in the table below to minimize risks.

Recommended Battery Cable Specifications (Illustration 5)

Battery Connection Steps:

1. Strip 18 mm of insulation from the positive and negative wires.
2. Connect all batteries according to the unit's requirements, using batteries with the recommended capacity.
3. Insert the battery cable straight into the inverter's battery terminal and tighten the screws to 2-3 Nm. Ensure correct polarity and secure connections.

IV. AC Input/Output Connection

NOTE: Install a separate AC switch between the inverter and the AC source before connecting. This allows for safe disconnection during maintenance and ensures the AC input is protected against overcurrent. A 50A AC switch is recommended.

NOTE: Use the "IN" and "OUT" terminals correctly; do not interchange them.

WARNING: All wiring must be performed by qualified personnel.

Use the recommended cable size for AC connections to minimize risks.

Recommended AC Cable Requirements:

AC Input/Output Connection Steps:

1. Ensure the DC switch is open before connecting the AC input/output.
2. Strip 10 mm of insulation from the six wires. Shorten the phase wire (L) and neutral wire (N) by 3 mm.
3. Connect the AC input wires according to the polarity indicated on the terminal block, ensuring the protective earth (PE) wire is connected first.
4. Connect the AC output wires similarly, ensuring the PE wire is connected first.
5. Verify all connections are correct.

NOTE: Appliances like air conditioners may require a 2-3 minute restart delay for refrigerant balancing. If a power outage occurs and is quickly restored, it can damage connected appliances. Consult the appliance manufacturer for anti-surge features.

V. PV Connection

NOTE: Install a separate DC circuit breaker between the inverter and the PV modules before connecting.

WARNING: All connections must be made by qualified personnel.

Use the correct cable size for PV connections to minimize risks.

Recommended Cable Sizes for PV Connections:

PV Module Selection:

Consider the following parameters when selecting PV modules:

1. The open-circuit voltage (Voc) of the PV modules must not exceed the inverter's maximum open-circuit voltage.
2. The open-circuit voltage (Voc) of the PV modules must be higher than the minimum battery voltage.

Solar Charging Mode Specifications:

Recommended PV Module Configurations:

Example configurations for 450 Wp and 550 Wp PV modules:

PV Module Cable Connection (Illustration 9, 10):

1. Strip 10 mm of insulation from the positive and negative cables.
2. Check the polarity of the PV module cables and the PV input connectors. Connect the positive (+) cable to the positive (+) PV input connector and the negative (-) cable to the negative (-) PV input connector.
3. Ensure all wires are connected correctly.

VI. Final Assembly

Once all wires are connected, replace the bottom cover and tighten the two screws as shown.

Operation

I. Power On/Off

After the unit is correctly installed and batteries are connected, press the ON/OFF switch to power on the unit.

II. Control and Display Panel

The control and display panel on the front of the inverter includes three indicators, four function buttons, and an LCD screen displaying operational status, power information, and supply details.

LED Indicators:

Button Functions:

III. LCD Display Settings

Press and hold the ENTER button for 3 seconds to enter setting mode. Use the UP or DOWN buttons to select program settings, then press ENTER to confirm or ESC to exit.

Program Settings:

• 01: Output Source Priority: Configure the priority of power sources (Grid, Solar, Battery).
• 02: Max Charging Current: Set the combined charging current for solar and grid chargers.
• 03: AC Input Voltage Range: Define the acceptable AC input voltage range.
• 05: Battery Type: Select the battery type (AGM, Flooded, User-defined, Lithium).
• 06: Auto-restart on Overload: Enable or disable auto-restart after an overload.
• 07: Auto-restart on Over-temperature: Enable or disable auto-restart after over-temperature.
• 08: Output Voltage: Set the output voltage (220V, 230V, 240V).
• 09: Output Frequency: Set the output frequency (50 Hz or 60 Hz).
• 10: Auto Bypass: Configure the bypass mode (Manual or Auto).
• 11: Max Charging Current from Grid: Set the maximum charging current from the grid.
• 12: Grid Voltage Setting Point: Adjust the grid voltage setting point for SBU priority or Solar first modes.
• 13: Battery Voltage Setting Point: Adjust the battery voltage setting point for charging.
• 16: Charging Source Priority: Set the priority for charging sources (Solar, Solar+Grid, Solar only).
• 18: Audible Signal Mode: Configure the audible alarm settings.
• 19: Return to Default Display: Enable or disable automatic return to the default display.
• 20: Backlight Control: Turn the backlight on or off.
• 23: Overload Bypass: Enable or disable the overload bypass function.
• 25: Modbus ID Setting: Set the Modbus ID for communication.
• 26: Charging Voltage (CV): Set the charging voltage.
• 27: Float Charging Voltage: Set the float charging voltage.
• 29: Low DC Cut-off Voltage: Set the low DC cut-off voltage.
• 32: CV Stage Time Limit: Set the time limit for the constant voltage (CV) charging stage.
• 33: Battery Balancing: Enable or disable battery balancing.
• 34: Battery Equalization: Configure battery equalization settings.
• 35: Equalization Time: Set the duration for battery equalization.
• 36: Equalization Time Limit: Set the time limit for battery equalization.
• 37: Equalization Interval: Set the interval between equalization cycles.
• 39: Immediate Equalization Activation: Enable immediate battery equalization.
• 41: Automatic Activation for Lithium Battery: Configure automatic activation for lithium batteries.
• 42: Manual Activation for Lithium Battery: Manually activate lithium batteries.
• 46: Max Discharge Current Protection: Set protection for maximum discharge current.

Battery Equalization

The charge controller features a balancing function to counteract negative chemical effects like stratification and to remove sulfate crystals from the plates, which can reduce battery capacity. Regular battery balancing is recommended.

How to Use Battery Balancing:

1. Enable the battery balancing function in the LCD monitor settings (Program 33).
2. Use the device in one of the following ways:
• Set the equalization interval in Program 37.
• Activate equalization immediately using Program 39.

When to Equalize:

The controller enters equalization mode when the set equalization time is reached (in standby mode) or when equalization is activated immediately. During the equalization phase, the controller provides maximum charging power until the battery voltage reaches the set equalization voltage. A fixed voltage is then applied to maintain this voltage. The battery remains in the equalization phase until the set equalization time is met. If the set time expires before the target voltage is reached, the controller will extend the equalization time. If the voltage is still below the required level after the extended time, the controller will terminate the equalization process and return to standby mode.

Lithium Battery Settings

For lithium batteries, it is recommended to prevent BMS (Battery Management System) protection from triggering when there is no communication between the BMS and the unit. Follow these steps before setting up:

1. Obtain the battery's BMS specifications, including maximum charging voltage, maximum charging current, and discharge protection voltage.
2. Set the battery type to "LIB".

Program 05: Battery Type

• User-Defined: Allows setting of battery charging voltage and low DC cut-off voltage in programs 26, 27, and 29.
• LIB: Uses default values suitable for lithium-ion batteries without communication. Charging voltage and low DC cut-off voltage can be adjusted in programs 26, 27, and 29.

Program 26: Total Charging Voltage (CV)

Set to the BMS's maximum charging voltage minus 0.5V. The setting value must be equal to or higher than the value in program 27. Increments are 0.1V.

Program 27: Floating Charging Voltage

Set to the same value as the electric current voltage.

Program 29: Low DC Cut-off Voltage

Set to at least 2V above the BMS discharge protection voltage.

Troubleshooting

Error Codes:

Warning Indicators:

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Unit powers off automatically during startup: Battery voltage is too low. Charge or replace the battery.
• No response after power on: Check battery polarity and wiring. Ensure the AC switch is off and AC wiring is correct. Check if the AC wiring is too thin or long. Verify generator operation and settings if applicable. Change output source priority to "Utility first".
• Unit operates in battery mode despite available power: LCD shows 0 input voltage, green LED flashes. This indicates protection activated due to overcurrent or overvoltage. Check AC switch and wiring. Verify AC wiring. Check generator settings. Change output source priority to "Utility first".
• Unit repeatedly turns on and off, LCD and LEDs flash: Battery is disconnected. Check battery cable connections.
• Audible signal beeps continuously, red LED lights up: Error code 07 (Overload). Reduce the load by turning off some appliances.

Maintenance

1. Keep the VALVATOR clean using a soft, dry cloth. Do not use chemicals.
2. Regularly inspect power cables and connectors for damage (fraying, cracks, looseness).
3. Ensure ventilation openings are clean and unobstructed for proper cooling.
4. Avoid contact with water or other liquids to prevent electrical shock.

Disposal

Dispose of this product in accordance with WEEE (Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment) regulations. Take it to a designated collection point for safe recycling. Contact the manufacturer or an authorized service center for disposal inquiries.

Warranty and Service Information

The product comes with a 24-month manufacturer's warranty covering material and workmanship defects. For service, contact our service department. The warranty does not cover damage due to misuse, drops, mechanical damage, unauthorized repairs, or attempted disassembly.

Specifications

Table 1: Line Mode Specifications

Table 2: Inverter Mode Specifications

Table 3: Charging Mode Specifications

Solar Input Specifications:

Table 4: Operating Conditions