Going Solar? Watch this torture test!

Part 3, Schneider Inverter. We push it to it's limits by load testing it.
This is a heavy, transformer based inverter made for off grid and on grid both. This makes it a hybrid inverter. The Schneider XW PRO 6848 is battery based for any nominal 48V battery including lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4).
In this video I put the inverter through rigorous load testing. Will it meet the spec in the manual? I throw power tools on it, water heaters, space heaters, etc. I try to load this XW PRO.
Chapters:
0:00 Intro
2:00 Overload Duration test on 240V
4:56 Power Tools on Inverter, 12" Miter Saw
7:59 Welding off grid
11:21 L1-N, Load Imbalance Testing
21:36 Conclusion
Download the Operation Guide for the XW PRO inverter here: solar.se.com/us/en/product/xw...
Scroll down and click on "User Documentation" then you can download the "XW PRO Owners Guide_990-91227"
PDP stands for Power Distribution Panel. Schneider makes two models of the PDP for the XW PRO inverter. There is a small, and large PDP. Both come with one 250A circuit breaker as a battery disconnect, and some AC circuit breakers. Both have a means to connect the single 250A breaker to one inverter.
The small PDP is made for one inverter only. It takes up less room, and costs a little less than the full size. As of this video, it is about $650 which makes it a real bargain if you know for certain you only need one inverter. This mounts under the inverter.
The large PDP takes up a little more room than the small PDP. It mounts next to the inverter, and comes with a wire-way that mounts under the inverter. The large PDP can accommodate up to 3 inverters allowing you to expand your system over time. As of this video, it costs about $1,200. It's only worth it if you know you will want more than one inverter (now or in the future).
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Signature Solar Affiliate Links:
Schneider XW PRO inverter: signaturesolar.com/schneider-...
Schneider PDP, Large: signaturesolar.com/schneider-...
Schneider PDP, Small: signaturesolar.com/schneider-...
Schneider kit with inverters, PDP, and charge controllers: signaturesolar.com/bndl-dc-co...
Complete Off grid kit: signaturesolar.com/complete-h...
Battery, 30.72 kWh, LiFePO4, EG4-LL, with cabinet and busbars: signaturesolar.com/eg4-ll-lit...
Schneider Bundle with Mini-PDP: signaturesolar.com/bndl-dc-co...
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Amazon Affiliate Links:
Power Meters (Din Rail): amzn.to/3A8v8Fj
SPD, Surge Protection Device: amzn.to/3U9YBWW
4/0 Lugs, UL: amzn.to/3SGwP3q
Wire Cutters: amzn.to/3sD0BLU
Wire Crimpers, Hydraulic: amzn.to/3gUUZtS
Service Entrance Connector: amzn.to/3FrNPXZ
Zip Ties, UL: amzn.to/3DF1ARX
Cable Tie Tool: amzn.to/3sIRXvs
Torque Screwdriver: amzn.to/3DS8nYR
Driver Bits for Electrical Terminals: amzn.to/3DIWS5L
“As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
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Disclaimer:
Products in video may have been provided to David Poz, LLC at no cost for the purpose of the review. All views and opinions expressed are that of David Poz, LLC.
My videos are in no way intended to be instructional "how-to" lessons. I am simply documenting my project for informational purposes. Property damage, personal injury, or death may result, even when following manufacturer's instructions. I cannot be held liable for such damage or injury. It is YOUR OBLIGATION to ensure that you are complying with any local and federal laws as well as code and permit requirements.
David Poz, LLC

[@ericbentsen1597]

Starting that chop saw while overloaded is incredible, as they typically have a high startup current. Nice work capturing the difference a toroidal transformer can make.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yeah, I was pretty thrilled with that one.

[@cgutowski471]

I’ve been waiting so long for a video like this for the XW. Thank you! Impressive capabilities for an inexpensive inverter/charger. I think more people need to truly understand the impact of surge, specifically on those high frequency inverters like EG4, Sol-Ark, MPP, Grow Watt, etc. Seems like the XW can take it, no issue. Great video!

[@yankey4]

LOVE THIS! Thank you for doing this ! Love how much time and along with clarity in your videos. I 100% am sold now on Schneider for my home in the future!! God Bless

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Your welcome. Thanks for appreciating the time involved.

[@davidchristensen1219]

I can say that I've been running my off-grid property for 2 years now on the XW Pro and it has done amazing! I have a 2nd unit I'm going to install once our house is done and we get all those 240V appliances online.

[@OhJohnnyO]

@@DavidPozEnergy how many of these can be paralleled ?

[@jorgecolon6794]

Thanks for the helpful info it was painful to watch execting the inverter to shut down. Great video.

[@maverickmacgyver]

The grinding hum of success! This is a great video!! I have an off grid welding shop in a shipping container using a XW6048 with a rather small 400AH AGM battery bank. The XW6048 is over 12 years old and runs a tiny office, metal saws, drill press and a Millermatic 212 MIG welder. The XW line is rather bullet proof and has proven performance & longevity.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

12 years doing that! Wow, quite a testimonial. Thanks for sharing.

[@KevinGebo]

Great video as always David! I always love watching your load test videos. Nice to see the inverter meet it's rated specs (for the most part). Looking forward to seeing the imbalance test after firmware update!

[@meganwinters5163]

Much appreciated David!!! Love the capabilities & variety of loads shown in this video, great job Sir! Also thank you for your service; Happy Veterans Day 🇺🇸

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thank you for watching and leaving a comment

[@TimothyEdgin]

I also ran my XW Pro well above the the 12Kw- briefly pulled 13Kw. David Poz got me started on my solar hobby lol! Thanks for all the hard work.

[@jermainwhyte6894]

How load is the humming or fan noise please? I have a 12gw growatt that’s messing with my ears. Can you used a decibel meeting to check. Thanks

[@tumbleweed1976]

David you are an impressive human! Thank you for sharing these videos 🎈

[@norsk54472]

Nice video, thanks for the effort. It is an impressive inverter. the MPPT 60 150 Charge controllers are rock solid as well, those I have had for several years now

[@JayDee25895]

Great review thanks for all the time and effort you put into your channel, IT SHOWS!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thank you. I appreciate you saying that.

[@Dudleymiddleton]

You really caned that inverter! - the best way to really test it thank you for sharing.

[@TheWickerShireProject]

Needed a white wig mad scientist look for this. Great system and test. Our beast is still doing great. I had to rewire the array to boost the voltage. Been running 75v 82v Now 102 to 118. Pushing amps.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Nice. Still running the Aims inverter?

[@TheWickerShireProject]

@@DavidPozEnergy Yes sir! She's going strong!

[@ThePytercoyote]

Is also a very good thing to know that manufacturers (Schneider in this case) deliver products that works as you'll expect and as they are advertised... 😎

[@liveinfoportal]

wow... that's a monster of an inverter

[@beckfordelectrical]

Man I’ve been waiting on this video so long. Thanks David appreciate your good work and for people to make there mind up an what they should expect from inverters like this.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Glad to help.

[@pheorrungurd8746]

Oh damn, that thing is a monster!

[@DNomer]

Good going. Nice suite of tests.

[@robr1656]

Highly IMPRESSIVE!

[@brentjohnson6654]

Another very good video. Looking forward to viewing more.

[@benssolarandbattery]

This is awesome!! Nice work putting it through it's paces. That must have taken FOREVER!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

It sure did. But, hey, haven't you been testing yours? :)

[@excillisbank2611]

Effectivement les coefficients de fonctionnement sont assez impressionnant ! merci pour ce superbe test pour ce magnifique onduleur XW PRO 6848 de chez SIGNATURE SOLAR. 👍

[@rpetty]

Great video and testing. Thank you.

[@realvanman1]

That's a very nice machine. I now have no doubt that it has it's roots in the Trace Engineering SW series. Very cool that those live on in some form.

[@jacquesdutron9954]

Hello DTG, I like to hear your signature laughter when you're excited. (Thx again Dave The Great)

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Ha, never heard that nickname before. But I'll take it. Thanks for enjoying the video with me.

[@jacquesdutron9954]

@@DavidPozEnergy well, you love what you do at it shows. I'm very grateful for all you do and specially, when you don't know whether to go with the XW Pro, the 15K Solark and the Growatts like me. Thx for your tremendous efforts to educate us, and guide for a better off grid.

[@AffordablePC1]

Very good hardware, we resell here in the UK. If you stack the inverters the outputs double and quadruple.... etc, ALL THE OUTPUTS!

[@charlesdavis7461]

The trees by your house look beautiful. Love to see a young man succeed as you and your wife seem to have done. I enjoy your videos just don't understand anything.

[@josedurand2144]

I've installed three of these at my house. Fully off grid!!!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Awesome!

[@MJ-ge6jz]

Ok, that's it! I'm getting this inverter! This high end inverter should last for 20 years if taken good care of. Guarding any lightning or EMP strikes that is.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Very cool. If you do decide to go forward, please consider buying it through my affiliate links in the description. It really helps the channel.

[@mibrahim59]

Thanks a lot for your great efforts, I strongly need the three phase operation using three split inverters. I am looking forward to your video recommendation

[@organiclove1]

An enjoyable video to watch.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thank you.

[@RedBatteryHead]

Surely impressive tests. Looks like a solid buy.

[@Baina24]

That was amazing!! Thank you!!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Your welcome

[@DrairoOrtiz]

Thanks for this amazing video, I was considering to purchase a second XW but now that you showed us and explained there's no need for me. I will do need the insight home for monitoring and firmware upgrades. Looking forward for those videos. Thank you very much for taking the time for doing research I know is a time consuming🙂.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Your welcome. I'm planning to buy a second inverter next year. That will allow me to add an EV charger. But, I'm waiting to buy an EV before buying the second inverter.

[@DrairoOrtiz]

@@DavidPozEnergy Planing on buying an EV SUV too (for my wife), but didn't know I need another inverter for that purpose plus larger PDP(have the small one). I guess I'll stick with your videos because I'm ki d of new on that field.

[@Songomx]

Hell of an Inverter...!!!

[@ThePytercoyote]

Great video yeah 👍🏻! Even though I don't understand everything was good to know some in's and out's about how it works... Thank you David... I'm trying to put a system to run a AC, some PCs and Tvs and some lights and other day to day devices when I move... And this info is awesome.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'm glad it will help you.

[@Upliftyourbrothers]

A beast. Now if they could just modernize the software/support. Or a all in one package deal. They need to get this into the masses.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yeah, it would be nice if some form of communication (like bluetooth to an app) would be built into this from the factory.

[@Upliftyourbrothers]

Schneider should team up with a few off grid guys like yourself. Solve issues, new software with easy DIY installs. They would sell like hotcakes. A quality option vs a growwatt.

[@Upliftyourbrothers]

Power companies should be afraid of these.

[@davidchristensen1219]

I have my setup integrated w/Home Assistant. I do have the Conext Gateway and I use the TCPModbus feature in the gateway. Once you get the gateway online, you'll have a whole host of things you can do. The cloud feature is eh for control. It's main features are centered around on-grid reporting. But since I use Home Assistant and have a way to connect to HA from anywhere I have internet, I can report and control directly there as well do all kinds of graphing and reporting.

[@mikehulbert9279]

@@davidchristensen1219 Any good write ups on this? Or are you just adding all of the Modbus registers and logging them? Thanks!

[@josesantana6412]

Hi David, I think you should do another test to XW, being connected to the grid with a load of 9000 W and disconnecting the grid to see what happens. That would be a great test to show the people. Thanks.

[@enriquerodea5824]

Thanks from México

[@SpencerLAPower]

Please do an in-depth video of connecting the inside home to the Wi-Fi network and Cloud that would be a great big help to a lot of people

[@Ted...youtubee]

Thinking the same. Whilst away from home would be good to remote in and check on the unit.

[@wayne8113]

Thanks David

[@NienteNessuno]

Amazong video, and amazing inverter!!

[@randycollins5981]

This may be why Signature Solar haven’t sent any EG4 invertors .wow.that’s a test

[@offgridwanabe]

Amazing and the price is right.

[@phatfendrs]

Nice toys!

[@thhillbillyinventor105]

Nice video . Would be curious though when you do the update on the settings if it improves any of the other test .

[@keything8487]

great video !....... i would like to see this beast after the update. the L1-N test maxed out is awesome. could we see a load ((minimal- 120v 5-10a) on L2)) while the L1-N test is going on. just wanted to see if that takes anything away from the max numbers you achieved. keep up the good work !!!

[@williamdenham8018]

Excellent video! You should work for Consumer Reports, lol. I guess it is a no brainer that if you are off-grid and need a robust system especially for shop tooling or window acon or other DON'T buy a transformerless inverter unless you like a world of nuisance pain.

[@clarencewiles963]

So your satisfied over the Growatt! So thanks again for your work!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Both the Growatts and this Schneider have been able to power my whole house without shutting down. I'm happy with both. The Growatts are less money, but I have found the power from the Schneider is more stable, and better quality.

[@clarencewiles963]

@@DavidPozEnergy is it always the update? Bottom line is all the manufacturers are improving and still the prices are coming down. Thanks.

[@norsk54472]

@@clarencewiles963 the latest firmware is data 18 Aug 2021 Release 120-240V Firmware 01.11.01 Build 0049 - current bits from their website. Amazing they haven't gotten the manufacturing process updated with those bits, unless they have had over a year's worth of inventory sitting in a warehouse. What firmware is currently installed - oh you will need the InsightLocal setup to determine that

[@ThisRandomUsername]

I think your conclusion sounds about right. The hardware engineers would have run the load simulations or actual tests and given marketing their numbers. The firmware engineers would've likely implemented it by the time release came, but full firmware tests or other processes wouldn't have been done on that new firmware by the time the units were ready to ship. Older firmware was probably tested earlier.

[@ronbridegroom8428]

Happy Veterans Day David!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thanks.

[@bubbawubba2307]

Like the all seeing eye of horos for your shirt

[@DavidPozEnergy]

The shirt is from Shaws hiker hostel in Maine. I built him a little solar system about a year and a half ago.

[@phillipsusi1791]

Wow.. nice... about a decade ago I was reading all of the specs on that Xantrex/Schiender XW system and was very impressed. IIRC, you can gang up to 3 of them in parallel for 18 kW continuous / 36 kW peak load.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I don't know what the specs were a decade ago, but this current version (XW PRO) can parallel 4 inverters in split phase, or 6 inverters in 3 phase.

[@phillipsusi1791]

@@DavidPozEnergy So they allow 4 now? Nice. I always wondered why they limited it to 3. If you can do 2, you can do 20+.

[@Tiersmoke92555]

I have been in love with this inverter since 2013. I have the AIMS 4k 240v 48v now and run all of my 120v and one 240v load. The aims is strong for what you pay it been since about 2015 running 24/7. I want the shneider but my wallet is saying AIMS 6k 240v 48v inverter charger.

[@alandonnels7382]

Make sure that you are not powering the system thru the Schneider when you do the firmware update. I am completely offgrid and have to run the generator and switch to generator power in the PDP. Problem is during the firnware update the inverter will restart. Your insight, internet router needs independent power source or the firmware update fails. I have the XW6848+ for the house and a XW 5548 for the garage/workshop. The 5548 powers my 18amp Powermatic table saw and 12 amp dust collector with no problem.

[@HerbTVGlum]

The same with power outages. Most people don't realize that their router connects to the internet via amplifiers on the power grid poles and they also go down when the grid fails. That in turn can cause the inverter(s) to go down as the router starts doing self checks, etc. in response to the loss of internet. I've see backup power systems that can't actually provide backup power for 7 minutes or so after the grid failure and loss of internet.

[@scheffman]

Love your channel Dave! I've been wrestling the "AC Coupling" functions with my Conext. Hope you dive into some of the more detailed settings.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'm testing out some AC coupling right now. What challenges are you facing?

[@scheffman]

I was having trouble with maximum wattage input, while trying different grid profiles. I'm on an Enphase system and neither Schneider or them can make recommendations. Im excited to see what you end up with. Love that your tackling the Conext line.

[@ugetridofit]

Great video! Next hi load test could you share what the DC current its pulling from the batteries.

[@christelting1359]

I had never heard of Schneider before. The low idle makes them a serious contender when I do 48v. And if I understood correctly you can team up to three of them together for more capacity.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Up to 4 in single phase, and up to 6 in 3 phase.

[@qapla]

Very informative. I like how you really push the tests (not sure what your wife thinks when stuff just shuts off). This system sounds good - if it just didn't cost so much. As a side note: I like your look better with the short hair and clean shaven.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

During much of the testing I had the house on grid power. I didn't want to disturb my wife, but also I wanted to control the loads throughout the test duration.

[@byronsbungl]

Thanks!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Thank you very much.

[@GapRecordingsNamibia]

LF inverters rock, My Victron has been running flawlessly for more than 7 years with basically 0 issues, the only thing I've had to do is firmware, all the other stuff like blowing out the housing to keep it as dust free as possible is just part of maintenance for me..

[@Doctorbasss]

Low frequency transformer inverter WIN !

[@horsreseauquebec]

Good job on gathering this data. I will soon publish a video with a 120V MIG flux core welder. Sadly, the Renogy 12V 3000W fails to do it, the welder just shut down at the moment of the first arc. So I connected a 12V Magnum 2800W inverter which does it, it will fail after about 1 min of constant soldering. Now I decided to go 24V, so I just got another 24V Magnum, I have some stuff to solder, I hope it will last more than 1 minute! Also noticed the Stihl 120V 1800W chainsaw is more powerful and start more instantly with the Magnum. The 5000W and 8000W WZRELB inverters are dead (blown mosfets), so let's assume the test fails.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Nice testing. Magnum has a nice big transformer in it. I've heard good things about Magnum, but never had the pleasure of testing them .

[@kimnguutv9661]

TUYỆT VỜI

[@fadajuiceful]

Beast

[@joeyoutdoors]

EasyStart™ 368 Soft Starter just answered my own question

[@jacquesdutron9954]

Hello DTG, thx a lot again for such a tremendous expertise. I just can't get away from AGM batteries. I like them specially, the way you connect them. Call me "ancient" but if I ever go lithium, I would rather deal with discovery aes 2,000 amp or 6,500 amp per battery. (They too come in 24 volt configuration for the 2,000 amp and 48 volt for the 6,550 amp) You can even mount them upside down for proximity reasons. Once again thank you so much for all you do DTG. PS (Would you one day do a dual testing? Pairing 2 XW?)

[@dobrzpe]

remember: the internal contactors/transfer switchs are rated at 60A per leg. so there is that too. and HONESTLY, i'm surprised you were able to get in touch, LET ALONE AN ANSWER from schneider! period. their customer service sux. bad! LOVE my equipment thou. your video proves they are rock solid. CHEERS!

[@Scat.original]

What size of solar array do you have? and do you have a video of that connected to this system? Thanks, great video

[@TheNerdy1]

David, thank you for all your hard work and commitment to this and every other video you make. This sounds like a great inverter. Is this able to also run your home HVAC equipment at the same time?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

My property is 100% electric. When I say I run my home on the inverter, I mean just that. No tricks. I don't have a separate "critical loads panel". I don't separate out my electric heating, or electric dryer, etc. I run my whole house and garage off the grid. Plain and simple. I understand the need for clarification because there are so many KZbinrs using this term willy-nilly. Instead of a person stating "I run my house off grid, except for..." I wish the common language was changed to stating "I run a small critical loads panel off grid". But I don't think that will happen any time soon. LOL

[@TheNerdy1]

​@@DavidPozEnergy that's incredible. Sorry if I sounded critical of you running 100% off grid on this single inverter. I do believe you and trust your videos a lot. I am very interested in how you manage to run a stove/oven, dryer and HVAC all on 6.8kW. Granted your video demonstrated that this beast can run for 30+ minutes at 8.5kW, so I understand the potential for startup surges. Perhaps a video providing a more in-depth look at to what that looks like could be helpful to others. This makes me reconsider my needs as I have a heat pump hot water heater and heat pump dryer. My largest loads are my stove/oven and 2 ton heat pump for HVAC.

[@sebydocky5080]

Great test... Do u have an idea of the self-consumption of this large inverter ?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

In the last video (Schneider Part 2) I showed the idle consumption of 31 Watts, as read on my Victron Smart Shunt. When I say "idle" I mean the inverter is ON, making a sinewave, but no loads.

[@sebydocky5080]

@@DavidPozEnergy Thanks a lot David;;; 31W for such huge inverter is pretty awsome.... Only studer beats it (22W for the 8000VA model)

[@hartjamesm]

Schneider has settings built in as default that kick off an alarm sooner. They are likely correct that firmware will fix. What I really want to see is its possible to load microinverters on the Grid-in AC side to get direct AC from PV panels (while off grid) . I called Schneider and they said they officially don't support the configuration but I don't see why it wouldn't work.

[@kbannockburn]

Whoops I misread this. I'm AC coupled on the scout side.

[@craigmitchell5628]

David, thanks for the extensive testing. I noticed you said you had ran your whole house and garage off of it for a couple months with no problems. I would be interested in knowing ; What is your average monthly KWH usage according to your electric bill. What tonnage and seer rating is your heat pump. How much KW is your PV array.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I have about 12kW of solar in the backyard. I don't know my average kWh usage. I might be able to track that once I install the insight home. I have 2 heat pumps, one in the garage and one in the house. Both are 9,000BTU. But, over the last month I haven't needed to run either since my home is super-insulated and I'm covering my heating with passive solar gain.

[@craigmitchell5628]

So your not much over 50amps continuous.

[@solexxx8588]

Good review David. Too pricey for me for off grid. No built in MPPT charger so that's even more you have to spend. A 120V welder is not much load. It only can draw 15 or 20 amps depending on the breaker and wire size. My 12KW low frequency off grid Aims inverter will take a surge of 36Kw. The transformerless inverters cant compete with the helow frequency transformer inverters. I still run 2X the Growatt 5000ES for my house. I like the built in 500 volt MPPT charger for batteries from my 18kW of solar.

[@eastmanresearch3143]

David, great video. Can you do a video doing a grid-shaving ability with this setup? I'd love to get one of these to work with my sunny islands on the AC side and peak shave my A/C usage. The sunny islands require some fudging of numbers using a microcontroller to spoof the LIBat voltage to backfeed the grid and documentation is nonsense as to how to accomplish this natively. I would prefer buying a pair of 6048's if they can ac couple and backfeed the grid to peak shave over a solark.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'm sorry, but I test these off grid.

[@Miweatherspotter1]

What sort of testing do you want to do? I have the smaller version of this AC coupled with a SolarEdge inverter. I can tell you my experiences. Ac coupling works just fine I’ve been doing it for almost 5 years.

[@Marker-er3ro]

Hi David, thank you for the video, I’ve been looking at the XW6848 to AC couple with our solar. I’m curious if you could charge the batteries off grid with a 120v generator, like a smaller Honda eu2000?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'll be doing some testing with a generator in a future video. I don't know If a 2000W will work or not. Personally, if I only had a 2000W generator, I'd just use a separate battery charger, tied to the dc busbars.

[@Miweatherspotter1]

You would need a step up transformer if you wanted to use the L2 generator input it needs 240 V for the small 240 V generator can charge batteries I’ve done it with mine😊 there is a very nice setting in the generator set up menu that allows you to set maximum generator draw and it will run in parallel with the generator so you can take a small 240 V generator like mine told me 2000 W and I can run my whole house off of it with the inverter backing it up for additional load and then you can set how many amps you want to charge up the generator. In my case I have it set to 9 A at 240 V being a maximum draw from the generator so it will charge the batteries with extra from it or like the load to use it for supplemental load all automatically as needed. So when my solar is not keeping up and the grids down, I was able to just fire up the generator, plug it in and let it charge up the batteries and run the house at the same time.

[@salarhadi2988]

Hi david , did you test it with you light when you starting heavy load is there flicker in light at startup load like washing machine?!

[@joseo.cordero7286]

Nice review. This thing can really handle loads. How does it compare to the Sunny Island? Any comments? That SMA is also a beast.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I ran a pair of SMA's a while back. The SMA's are also built around a large toroidal transformer. Technically, each Sunny Island (yellow SMA) is rated for 5,750W cont., but that is pretty conservative. I took them up over 7kW (each) a few times and didn't have a problem. Since the SMA is 120V only, you need a pair to make 120/240V power. The Schneider is 120/240 out of the one inverter. But, if you plan on having 2 Schneiders, then I'd say the real-life experience will be the same as having 2 SMA's. In that, I don't think you would notice the difference day to day. However, the SMA's are a bit odd to program, but the Schneider is a little louder. I think both are good options.

[@theantasist]

Great video David 👍. Question: Do you have or need a grounding rod for your off grid system?

[@hartjamesm]

Yes always add a grounding rod even in off grid. You may need to add two, per necc you should measure resistance, if to high add a second.

[@audreye7078]

@@hartjamesm there are videos that indicate only 1 location for ground otherwise you might create a loop that is dangerous

[@Leo-cl1xq]

Like to see the same test with the software update

[@DavidHalko]

On other 120/240 low frequency inverters, like Genetry Solar, also use firmware settings to limit power draw… so I am not surprised that this high end unit is supposed to limit in firmware.

[@ReadyNeck]

Are you able to compare efficiency of this inverter vs the growatts or others you’ve tested? Does the idle power usage or other factors come into play like no auto transformer needed and it’s additional power consumption etc?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'll be doing a video just on efficiency in the future. I think the Schneider is the most efficient, but won't know until I fully run through the testing.

[@compass504]

Great Video.. Thanks. Question? Have you seen the panel rack built by the UT channel "Ambition Strikes?" Wow! You have to go back 4 and 5 months ago.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yes, on the shipping container.

[@georgeemanson]

Great video.... have you tested a Sol-Ark 12K inverter.?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yes, I have tested the Sol-Ark 12K inverter. I have a few videos on it from last year.

[@bonzology322]

Nice work! Did you try the imbalance after the firmware upgrade?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yes, and the firmware did increase the imbalance. I didn't expect it to, but it's cool.

[@joshg1244]

I wonder if you will get the same results on just using L2 on the imbalance

[@nickrhee7178]

David, I am trying to select either Schneider XW-pro with its charge controller, insight home, etc. or a pair of Victron Multiplus II 48V 5000VA inverters to generate 120/240 split phase. I would like to see you comparing these two in terms of different metrics -cost, surge capability, power, easy to do configuration setting, difficulty of installation, etc. If I go with Victron inverter I will buy Victron charge controller, Cerbo Gx, Lynx distributor, etc. It will be awesome if you come up with scores of these metrics for two high quality products. Thanks. Nick

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Both are high quality brands. Both will provide an exceptionally clean sine-wave, high efficiency, and low idle. You won't go wrong with either. The first question would be about permits and inspection. Schneider has set up their equipment to all be UL Listed. From the Inverter, PDP, wire-way, and charge controllers. So if you are worried about passing an electrical inspection, Schneider is the way to go. The second question is the maximum load. Victron 5000, is a 4,000 Watt cont. This means 8kW total cont (two units in parallel). That beats out a single Schneider at 6.8kW cont. I would love to test the Victron setup in a similar over-loading test at some point. But, I don't have the finances to buy a whole Victron system just for a video.

[@TrackGeeks]

Maybe one day we can test two in parallel. Assuming I ever get a house built. :D

[@davidwilson2462]

David, are these extreme max test something we ready need to consider?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

Yes, I think it's extremely important that a product meets specifications.

[@aonekris]

Would you be able to do a comparison between the Growatt and Schneider Inverter

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'd love to in the future. It will be a while though, since I still have to figure out the insight home and update firmware.

[@keithculvahouse1191]

would love to see a video on how it is going making the transition off grid. I am also making the transition.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

It's going well. Right now not all my solar is tied in. I have to finish building out this system. How is your transition going?

[@keithculvahouse1191]

I use this time of year as the time to prove how well my solar is doing. Heating my home with heat pumps takes some power and solar production is down. I find winter to be a learning experiance.@@DavidPozEnergy

[@carlossantini]

Hi David, whats the idle consumption of the XW Pro 6848? No savings mode or search mode please!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

31 Watts, as measured on my Victron Smart Shunt. I show this in the video where I hook up this inverter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/oIuti4ygd9qbpLM

[@carlossantini]

@@DavidPozEnergy thx u

[@theheathkitshop2424]

Hi, David. Interesting testing. How would the SMA inverters have done? I see they are gone from your power wall. You've tested all the Chinese high frequency inverters, how about a test of a pair of Outback VFXR inverters? Would love to see how they stack up with the Schneider. I've been using and designing solar electric systems since 1978 and Schneider has developed a reputation for crappy customer service. How was your experience when you called about the L1/L2 in balance tests?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I'd be happy to test some outback equipment, but I've already spent too much this year on equipment. Maybe if there was a used set for sale? I called Schneider technical help line. I never had to wait more than 2 minutes on hold, and I've called them 4 times over the past 3 months.

[@theheathkitshop2424]

@@DavidPozEnergy Thanks for the note! Yeah, all this stuff is expensive. It's not so much the basic equipment, it's all the little things needed to make it work. Like the $1200 conduit box, the Insight controller, battery monitor, and so on. Of course you don't need all those fancy things, but it sure makes life easier.

[@Songomx]

@DavidPoz What did you do with the SMA's Sunny Island you had??!!

[@DavidPozEnergy]

They are on a pallet, just behind the camera.

[@ryanstowe6437]

Good video some good test but would really like to see the load transfer switch tested this was a known weak point in Schneider 48v inverters before and the only reason I bought a magnum 4448 I’m exclusively off grid and when charging with a generator and running loads it can be easy overload your generator when it cuts off that high current loan when it switches back to inverting is solely on the transfer switch

[@DavidPozEnergy]

The internal relays are rated for 60A. I plan to make a video with my Generator, but can you help me understand better what exactly you want to see tested?

[@ryanstowe6437]

@@DavidPozEnergy when the generator shuts down whether it be turned off run out of gas or over loaded it should automatically switch over to inverting a good one you shouldn’t even see a flicker in the lights need to have it under a high load 60a is a lot I’m pretty sure that’s how much magnum energy 4448 is rated for I love it it’s been very efficient and I’ve haven’t been able to overload it but that’s what killed my last inverter it was a cheap Sungold generator was running it shut off while the well pump was going and it fried the transfer

[@PatLyoutubepage]

Now thats a serious inverter. How warm does the outside housing get during the overload testing? Would down time after each load help? Or maybe its ambient temperature limited and is heat soaked.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

The outside front panel got up to 90F on one of my tests. I waited a minimum of 1 hour between each test. There are internal temperature sensors which will limit the overload duration. If the ambient air temperature is higher, then the duration of overload will be lower. Schneider includes a temperature compensation graph in the manual.

[@PatLyoutubepage]

@@DavidPozEnergy nice! Someday I might be able to upgrade to that class of inverter. I have plans on building a home emergency backup power system for the important 120v circuits with 1 mpp6548 and 1 5kwh battery in ups/bypass mode.

[@joeyoutdoors]

What inverter would you recommend for a 5 ton AC unit in Arizona? If my math is correct, the unit will pull 5Kwh per hour, Solar will be 18KW of panels and 30KWH EG4-LL v2.

[@realvanman1]

It appears as if your watt hour meters are reading the current from one line, and the voltage from the other. During the one line load test, the voltage on the line under test went up, and the voltage on the unloaded line went down.

[@HerbTVGlum]

Good catch!

[@gregseggewiss694]

How is the Schneider with sensitive electronics? 5 percent THD is quite a bit more than other brands. Otherwise I love how inverter/trunking/mppts/and so on fit nicely together though.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

I haven't noticed any problem with my electronics. I don't know of a way to test THD in my garage. The manual has a page dedicated to talking about RF noise and how this inverter meets the government specs for use around radios. Sorry I'm no expert when it comes to electronic noise.

[@gregseggewiss694]

@@DavidPozEnergy I'm under the impression many oscilloscopes have the ability to measure THD...

[@niktak1114]

What's the ambient temperature? Low frequency inverters are more affected by heat. Most of them have to be significantly derated as you get higher and higher above room temp.

[@DavidPozEnergy]

The manual gives a lot of information on temperature. It's quite impressive. I linked to the manual in the description.

[@KevinGebo]

@@DavidPozEnergy What was the ambient temperature in your garage during testing?

[@DavidPozEnergy]

My garage is pretty steady at 68F.