Question 1

Does your AVS100 protect a house if the neutral line going to the transformer breaks?

Accepted Answer

Context: Customer is in the USA and has a 240V Live to Live centre tapped 120V L-N socket supply

Customer issue:

A faulty incomer neutral (floating) in combination with unbalanced loads causing a voltage imbalance across L-N outputs . Incomer supply measured L1-N at 165V and L2-N at 75V. While L1-L2 remains at a normal potential of 240V.

Solution:

Customer installed 2 off AVS30 (115V) in combination with 2 off contactors rated for the full load. AVS monitors a L-N supply and will disconnect the supply if the voltage goes outside its user set low and high volt disconnect settings. Please also note that in circumstances where the neutral is completely disconnected , the AVS will have lost the supply that it monitors and its on board relay will de-energise and the associated contactor will drop out (normally open type) .

Question 2

Would it matter if live and neutral were swapped?

Accepted Answer

Yes. AVS/AVR  input and output switches (where fitted) are connected in series with the Live wire. It is important to ensure the live can be isolated via a switch. A reversed supply would have its neutral switched which will keep the live  cable energised and contravene safety regulations (earth bond touch voltage issues)

Question 3

What is the startup delay time on the Sollatek SVS04-22E?

Accepted Answer

There are two models of the SVS04-22E. A 6 minute and a 10 Second startup delay. The 6 minute startup delay (depending on which year of manufacture), will have a 30 minute initial power up period before it will assume its normal working start up delay time. This is an important feature used for production purposes. This is a one time only set up when the unit is brand new. Power up the unit and leave to run for 30 minutes. After that, the standard delay time of the unit will be as per the user manual. i.e. approximately 6 minutes on startup.

Question 4

I have a Sollatek SVS04-22E, which is supposed to have a 6-minute delay. However, when I powered it on for the first time, the delay was only 10 to 20 seconds. Is there a problem with the unit?

Accepted Answer

Some SVS04-22E models (depending on which year of manufacture), will have a 30 minute initial power up period before it will assume its normal working start up delay time. This is an important feature used for production purposes. This is a one time only set up when the unit is brand new. Power up the unit and leave it to run for 30 minutes. After that, the standard delay time of the unit will be as per the user manual. i.e. approximately 6 minutes on startup.

Question 5

What is Phase Imbalance?

Accepted Answer

If the voltage between any of the 3 phases differs by more than 4.8% the unit will alarm.

Question 6

Does the unit on both 50 and 60Hz supplies?

Accepted Answer

Yes the unit will automatically detect the operating frequency and alarm if these stray outside their limits. Refer to spec for values.

Question 7

Phase rotation detection?

Accepted Answer

Yes the unit will detect and alarm if the phases sequence has been accidentally reversed.

Question 8

Which fuse should I use in the Sollatek AVS30 If I need to replace it. The manual states 0.5A but the unit has a 5Amp when bought new?

Accepted Answer

The fuse should be the following type: 5.0A HBC Anti Surge 20x5mm. This is a product upgrade and now standard in all new AVS units

Question 9

How does load shedding affect my appliances?

Accepted Answer

Your appliances are designed to run at a specific power supply (amps) however, with load shedding, the blackout is an interruption to the supply to your appliances. It is the surge after a blackout that poses the most danger to your appliances. If this is your reality, these surges are extremely detrimental to your appliances as they could be receiving much higher power than they need. The single phase power in most home in the UK runs on 230v which means when power returns your equipment could potentially receive far more than this. Equipment that has motors such as dishwashers, fridges, washing machines and coolers are more susceptible to damage due to the affects they have on their motors. This blog discusses load shedding in further detail.

Question 10

What is a power surge?

Accepted Answer

Power surge or voltage surge is an abnormally high wave of voltage lasting for a short period. This is usually considered an over supply of power to appliances and equipment. Power surges are recognised in two different categories. There are internal sources and external sources. Internal sources derive from changes within the system itself. For example, thermostats or dimmer switches are examples of circuits designed to increase/decrease electrical load. Alternatively, think of the fan in your computer or the compressor on your fridge repeatedly turning on and off, consequently affecting the power available in your home. External power surges can differ based on the region. In developing countries a common source of power surges come from how power in the national grid is used. In the evening, for example, as the nation returns home and switches on their TVs, air conditioning and so on can drain power from the grid. For further information on power surges see here

Question 11

Does the FridgeGuard reduce power consumption?

Accepted Answer

Yes, this is one of the multiple benefits that a FridgeGuard will provide by ensuring the compressor continues to operate reliably and efficiently within its designed voltage range. In addition, the FridgeGuard will protect against mains borne spikes and surges that can damage its electronic controller.

Question 12

Should I unplug my fridge during a power outage?

Accepted Answer

Not when it is connected to a Sollatek FridgeGuard. When power is restored after a power cut, appliances such as fridges can be subjected to large spikes and erratic fluctuation which can cause your fridge costly repairs or even unrepairable damage unless protected or unplugged.

Question 13

Can a power outage damage a fridge?

Accepted Answer

After power outages, you will get power back surges which can cause damage, therefore a start-up delay is essential. Also, if power outages are frequent and close to each other, this start/stop will damage the Fridge. The FridgeGuard will protect against this with its: -

Voltage level monitoring
Start-up delay

Question 14

Should you use a surge protector on a fridge?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A series of small surges or even a large power surge can have a catastrophic effect on your fridge/freezers compressor which can reduce the performance of the appliance or even stop it from working. See product: FridgeGuard

Question 15

Why is there a time delay before switching on my fridge?

Accepted Answer

The Time delay (AVS Function) is very important to allow compressor gasses to neutralise inside your fridge/freezer. If this does not happen, then it can be very damaging to the compressor and can cause total appliance failure. After a power cut, voltages can fluctuate, the time delay prevents appliances unnecessarily turning ON/OFF (which can cause damage) as power stabilises. The Timesave function means your fridge/freezer will only be off for the minimum amount of time to allow safe conditions/operation. If the FridgeGuard has been OFF for more than the standard time delay of 3 minutes, Intelligent TimeSave function will make it restart within 10 seconds when normal power resumes rather than wait a further 3 minutes.

Understanding The Power On Delay for Refrigerator and Freezer Units

The power on delay or time delay for refrigerator and freezer units is a crucial feature that often goes unnoticed. This article will guide you through understanding what it is, why it is important, and how it impacts the overall performance and lifespan of your appliances.

What Is a Time Delay Switch for Refrigerator?

A time delay switch for refrigerator is an inbuilt feature that dictates when the appliance can start after a period of inactivity or a power interruption. This is also known as the 'compressor delay' or 'start delay' in refrigeration terminology. A well-known version of this is the Minus Forty Freezer start delay. The Time Delay (also called the AVS Function) is instrumental in allowing compressor gases to neutralise inside your refrigerator or freezer. If the gases do not neutralise, it can inflict considerable damage to the compressor, leading to possible total appliance failure.

Why Is There a Delay in Restarting a Compressor?

One might ask, "Why is there a delay in restarting a compressor?". After a power cut, voltages can fluctuate, causing appliances to unnecessarily turn on and off, which can result in damage as power stabilises. The compressor delay time is put in place to prevent this unnecessary cycling and stabilize the appliance's operation.

How Long Does It Take For a Refrigerator Compressor to Turn On?

Typically, a standard time delay for refrigerator units is about 3 minutes. However, the question, "How long does it take for a refrigerator compressor to turn on?" depends on specific models and manufacturers. Some units, like the Minus Forty Freezer, have their own specific start delay settings.

The Best Power On Delay for Refrigerator: The TimeSave Function

Sollatek's Timesave function signifies that your refrigerator or freezer will only be off for the minimum duration required to maintain safe operating conditions. If the FridgeGuard has been off for more than the standard time delay of 3 minutes, the Intelligent TimeSave function will enable it to restart within 10 seconds when normal power resumes rather than wait a further 3 minutes. This could easily be considered the best power on delay for refrigerator units. The Timesave function is an efficient feature to manage how long a fridge compressor takes to start and restart, contributing to an enhanced lifespan for your appliance and preventing any undue strain on the compressor.

Question 16

How does a FridgeGuard work?

Accepted Answer

The FridgeGuard works by continuously monitoring the mains voltage and when it detects the voltage is below acceptable limits, the FridgeGuard will disconnect the supply off from the connected fridge / freezer. Once the voltage has returned within the acceptable range the FridgeGuard will automatically switch the power back on to the connected appliance after a short delay.

Question 17

What does a FridgeGuard do?

Accepted Answer

The FridgeGuard protects all domestic and commercial fridges, freezers and coolers from low (under) voltage as well as transient spikes/surges and powerback surges.

Question 18

Why hasn’t the voltage display changed but my input voltage has changed?

Accepted Answer

The SVS corrects the input voltage in increments (taps). If the input voltage moves form one tap to another, the output voltage can move visibly but remain within the output parameters of the unit. For example, as per table, if the input voltage is 240V, output is 240V. If the input moves up to 245, the output moves to 218. The LED display will remain unchanged in this instance as the output is still within the parameters (6% accuracy).

Question 19

Do I Need To De-rate an AVR When Installed At High Altitudes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A fan cooled Automatic Voltage Regulator (AVR) must be de-rated at altitudes above 2000 meters. At 2000 meters, de-rate by 18%. and then by 9% for every 1000 meters. So At 3000 meters, de-rate by 27% and so on

Question 20

Is the breaker in the AC Guard single pole or double pole?

Accepted Answer

The AC Guard breaker is single pole.

Question 21

I need to download the UPS software, but I don&#8217;t know which software to use?

Accepted Answer

For the Ultima UPS Power Management Software download, please click here. For the Ultima LCD UPS Power Management Software download, please click here.

Question 22

If an iVolt or AVR is exposed to a reverse voltage can this damage it or does it protect itself?

Accepted Answer

Introduction When considering methods to save energy consumption in a building there are a range of possible technologies you may be considering. Along with an iVolt to reduce the electricity consumption, you may also be think looking at using solar PV, or may already have it installed. The question is, “Will the iVolt and grid connected solar PV work well together?” The answer is “Yes”, provided the system is connected in the correct way. Connection of an iVolt An iVolt reduces and regulates the voltage of the power supplied to a building. It is connected between the incoming supply and the AC distribution panel. This way all loads in the building will benefit from the regulated voltage and reduction in power. Figure 1 shows this configuration. Connection of Grid PV systems A PV system is usually connected as shown in Figure 2 (excluding the iVolt installation, highlighted in red). The solar modules feed power to a PV inverter, which changes the DC power to AC power and feeds it into the AC power system. Power from the solar inverter can be flow in either direction; a) into the house to reduce the electricity imported from the grid, or b) exported out to the grid, when there is more power from the solar than is required by the house. A dual electricity meter is required so that it will record both the normal import consumption from the grid as well as credits when exporting power to the grid. These are charged at different tariffs. Correct Connection of an iVolt and Grid Connected PV In the case where an iVolt is used along with a solar PV system, it is important to connect the solar PV inverter at the point between the meter and the iVolt input – this is shown in Figure 2.

Question 23

Frequency Error Detection on AVS13 &#038; AVS15

Accepted Answer

New models of the AVS13 & AVS15 have a frequency detection feature. If the mains frequency strays outside an acceptable range (and thus could be damaging to your equipment) the AVS will disconnect the power and the two Red LEDs (low & high voltage) will start flashing. Once the frequency returns to normal, the AVS will reconnect automatically after the pre-set delay. This feature is present in AVS13 & AVS15 with serial numbers equal or greater than 425940000.

Question 24

What device should I use to protect my fridge from low voltages?

Accepted Answer

The Fridgeguard is the most suitable device. It will protect against Low voltage (brownouts) by disconnecting the power when low. The FridgeGuard also has a startup delay of 3 minutes to ensure the compressor is protected against frequent switch off & on during fluctuations. Other suitable products; FridgeRight, SVS04, VoltGuard, AVS13, AVS15

Question 25

Are the TVGuard and HivoltGuard similar in function?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the two models are identical in function. Find out more about HivoltGuard and TVGuard

Question 26

What is the most suitable stabiliser for a vaccine fridge?

Accepted Answer

The most suitable stabiliser for a vaccine fridge is the following Sollatek product: Model : Sollatek SVS04-22 4A 1KVA 230V EURO 6min E7/VR. This SVS is designed specifically to protect vaccine fridges and complies with WHO specification E7/VR. The unit is rated at 4amps on full load and full boost and has a start up delay of 6 minutes.

Question 27

The AVS30 has a fuse. How  does this work?

Accepted Answer

If the AVS30 fuse blows (MOV gives a momentary short and therefore takes out the fuse) due to a transient. Then the AVS will not work and LED's will extinguish i.e the unit will appear dead. Replace the fuse with a new 0.5A HBC Ceramic, antisurge 20x5mm. This fuse in addition to a spike protection is also used as the control circuit supply input fuse, not to be confused with an external load fuse.

Question 28

Can I connect the Powerback PB3000 and 5000 to a Solar Panel?

Accepted Answer

You require a PV charge controller to be able to charge the battery from the Sun. The powerback will be connected directly to the battery.

Question 29

Can I connect multiple appliances to the AVS13?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can connect a multiway strip to the AVS13 and then plug as many appliances as you require BUT ensure that you don't exceed 13Amps in total

Question 30

Is the Sollatek Ultima compatible with generators?

Accepted Answer

Yes.

Question 31

Can I use Ultima UPS for my Fridge?

Accepted Answer

In theory yes but in practice, you shouldn't. First a UPS that will support the power of a fridge will be quite large and expensive. Additionally, a fridge can hold its cold temperature much longer than the power the UPS will deliver.

Question 32

How do you  disable the Power failure alarm on the Ultima UPS?

Accepted Answer

Ultima uses Winpower. Ultima LCD uses Viewpower. Both have battery audible alarm disable facility.

Question 33

Does the AVS30 have an intelligent time delay?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the AVS30 does have an intelligent time delay.

Question 34

Is the time delay on the AVS30 constant on all units?

Accepted Answer

The time delay at manufacturing is not set identically on all AVS30 units. This will allow units to start at slightly different delay. So if multiple Sollatek units are protecting multiple loads (like Air conditioners), when the power returns to normal after a power cut, not all A/Cs start at exactly the same time. This will help prevent an inrush current on return of power.

Question 35

Can the Ultima be used with laser jet printers?

Accepted Answer

Laser printers draw a large amount of power, so its preferable that they are not backed up as they will discharge the UPS battery very quickly. Ink jet are slightly better on power consumption. Best to connect the printers to the UPS additional surge protected outlets that do not provide backup power (the Ultima have a single light grey socket that is connected directly to the UPS mains input). If you do plug the printer into the outlets with battery backup power, the UPS backup time during an outage will be reduced.

Question 36

Could the VoltGuard be used for 110V? Would the VoltGuard have the capability of Over Voltage Disconnect (130V) and Under Voltage Disconnect (92V) when using the 110V input?

Accepted Answer

There is a 230V version of the VoltGuard which has HVD 265V and LVD of 185V. There is a different model of the VG for use with 110V. This has HVD of 130V and LVD of 92V. Please contact sales@sollatek.com for the correct voltage.

Question 37

Which is the product of choice for domestic electrical circuit, either the AVS30 or AVS100?

Accepted Answer

AVS30 is the domestic electrical circuit product choice: Domestic ring/radial circuits normally have 30/32 MCB protecting them. The consumer fuse box should have an existing 30/32 amp MCB to protect the existing ring main circuit. A 30amp MCB will protect the AVS30 relay contacts (relay contacted rated at 30amps). Assuming the AVS30 relay contacts are wired after MCB and before ring main, be aware that when this trips you will lose supply to all connected on this. The AVS100 is required if the supply exceeds 30Amps.

Question 38

Is the AVR set to 220 or 230 or 240V nominal?

Accepted Answer

The Automatic Voltage Regulators (AVRs) are normally set to 220V. It can operate normally and safely with 230V or 240V. In fact, the output will be reduced to 220V +/-4% which will be a better operating voltage for most electrical/electronic equipment and can additional save energy with certain type of equipment.

Question 39

Which stabiliser can be used on the output of a generator? SVS range or AVR range?

Accepted Answer

Either would, both are suitable. Use an AVR if the main equipment are computers or computer like equipment. However, some small generators produce a wave shape may cause problems for the AVR/SVS measurement circuit. You can get very large frequency fluctuation too. Make sure the gen set is rated to at least twice the required current so as to reduce some of these problems. The Sollatek SVS is also Genset compatible and that would be the model of choice for small generators.

Question 40

Can I use a Surge strip with a UPS?

Accepted Answer

You MUST NOT plug socket strip with surge protection after a UPS that has modified sine wave output.

Question 41

Why doesn’t my Ultima UPS shut down my computer when the power runs out?

Accepted Answer

This is a software issue:

1. First of all when you open Winpower software you must act as Administrator to give you full access to change setting.
2. Click on device menu.
3. Scroll mouse down to “shutdown parameter”
4. Under “battery backup time” tick on the box.
5. Enter “ok”

Question 42

What products do you have to protect against overvoltage?

Accepted Answer

AVS13 rated 13 amps, plug and socket device AVS13RL, rated 13Amps, plug and socket device with RFI protection AVS15 rated 15 amps, plug and socket (round), with longer time delay 2-5 minutes A/C Guard, rated 16/20/25amps, direct wiring and 4 minutes time delay. Notebook Guard HivoltGuard iSense See all Voltshield Automatic Switchers for under and over-voltage protection

Question 43

How does the TVStab compare to the HiVoltGuard/TVGuard ?

Accepted Answer

Both have a 10 second reconnect delay and a Low voltage disconnect. The TVStab regulates the incoming voltage and produces a stable output where as the HiVoltGuard/TVGuard disconnects the power totally until input supply is stable and within recommended operating range. The HivoltGuard / TVGuard is rated a 6A of load carrying capacity making it universal in the protection of all domestic electronic equipment. The TVStab on the other had currently comes with 2 ratings a 1.3A unit (protect up to 32’’ TV) and a 2A unit (protect up to 50’’ TV)

Question 44

How does the FridgeStab compare to the FridgeGuard?

Accepted Answer

Both have a 3 minute delay and a Low voltage disconnect. The FridgeStab regulates the incoming voltage and produces a stable output whereas the FridgeGuard disconnects the power totally until input supply is stable and within recommended operating range. The FridgeGuard is rated a 6A of load carrying capacity making it universal in the protection of all domestic fridge and freezers. The FridgeStab on the other had currently comes with 2 ratings a 1A unit (protect up to a 7 cu ft fridge/freezer) and a 2A unit (protect up to 15 cu ft fridge /freezer)

Question 45

Is the AVS30 suitable for &#8220;Mobile Installation&#8221; into Caravans and Motorhomes.

Accepted Answer

The AVS30 has common neutral and a common earth for input and output. This is more related to the general wiring system classification of earthing of which we do not advise as this info is detailed in the IEE regs (section 708). The AVS is single phase L-N-E connection and therefore suitable for caravan and camping parks as long as it is connected in accordance with the national regulations.

Question 46

What does the LED status indication mean?

Accepted Answer

The display of the STAB range of products comes with two LEDS of the front panel. Green to mean voltage good and a red to mean input supply voltage is not good. Both LEDs blink simultaneously- indicated a reconnect delay of either 10sec for TVStab or 3 minutes for FridgeStab Both red and green LEDs remain on- indicates input supply is either too high or too low and the unit is rectifying it. Only green LED on- Input supply voltage is nominal and output is equivalent to input.

Question 47

How does the FridgeStab operate?

Accepted Answer

While switching on, the FridgeStab unit goes into a 3 minute delay after which voltage rectification begins. It will regulate input power of a range of 130-290V step up or down accordingly for an output range of 150-250 proportionately.

Question 48

Where is the serial number to install the software for a Voltsure Ultima UPS unit 600VA?

Accepted Answer

The serial number is the one from the CD.

Question 49

Does the DSP cause the RCD to trip?

Accepted Answer

As the DSP surge protection component is MOV type between L-N ,N-E, there may be a very small leakage current from Live to earth caused by the MOV normal operation. The RCD may see this as an imbalance between its live and neutral currents thereby causing the RCD to trip. Suggest fit the DSP before the RCD i.e. on the RCD's input terminal side.
DSP is a device that is fitted in parallel across the L-N and earth.

Question 50

Where should you install a DSP when you have an RCD installed?

Accepted Answer

Best to put the DSP before the RCD.

Question 51

What MCB rating does one use for the Live wire on the DSP-1P?

Accepted Answer

It uses the B32 rating.

Model	SVS20-11
Output Current	20Amps
VA@115V	2300
Weight	7kg
Case type	Plastic
AVS function	YES
Startup delay	YES
Spike protection	YES
Dimension (mm)	162 x 132 x 275
Product Code Plug Type A (Type G)	98220511 (98220411)

Context: Customer is in the USA and has a 240V Live to Live centre tapped 120V L-N socket supply

Customer issue:

Solution:

Understanding The Power On Delay for Refrigerator and Freezer Units

What Is a Time Delay Switch for Refrigerator?

Why Is There a Delay in Restarting a Compressor?

How Long Does It Take For a Refrigerator Compressor to Turn On?

The Best Power On Delay for Refrigerator: The TimeSave Function

Context: Customer is in the USA and has a 240V Live to Live centre tapped 120V L-N socket supply

Customer issue:

Solution:

Understanding The Power On Delay for Refrigerator and Freezer Units

What Is a Time Delay Switch for Refrigerator?

Why Is There a Delay in Restarting a Compressor?

How Long Does It Take For a Refrigerator Compressor to Turn On?

The Best Power On Delay for Refrigerator: The TimeSave Function

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