Can a fence support a hybrid inverter?

NotHandyPete

Hello, 

I am looking to install a solar battery set up. I live in a small terrace, the only suitable location is along the rear fence (a nightsoil lane is behind it). 

I currently have a colourbond fence, and the inverter I am looking at weighs 30kg (FoxESS 1 phase KH/KA). The installer said it wouldn't work. So brainstrust my question is:

- Is there a bracket that could be installed?

- Is there a way to mount it from the ground?

- Is there an easy way to replace a colourbond fence with a cinderblock fence or something? Would that support the weight?

Thank you in advance for any help you might be able to provide.

JacobZ

Hi @NotHandyPete,

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community, it is fantastic to have you with us.

Did the installer say why the fence wasn't suitable? Was it because it wouldn't be able to bear the weight? Or was it to do with the conductivity caused by your metal fence being in direct contact with an electrical inverter?

Unfortunately, I'm not aware of a bracket that could be used, and I think replacing your fence altogether is probably overkill.

I'd confirm with the installer that it is suitable before doing so, but concreting in a timber post seems like it could be a viable option.  

Timber is much better suited to supporting this kind of weight, and it is not conductive in the same way metal is. You could use a post like this 90 x 90mm 2.4m Post F7 H4 Treated Pine Premium KD. Just dig a hole, around 300mm in diameter and 600mm deep, put the post in and fill the hole with 3-4 bags of concrete. Once installed, you can cut the post off at whatever height you wish. This will create a solid foundation for installing your inverter.

Let me know what you think.

Jacob