How to install and commission Pylontech US5000 batteries

The installation of Pylontech US5000 solar batteries represents a crucial investment for your photovoltaic system. These lithium-ion batteries offer a reliable, high-performance storage solution, but their commissioning must follow a rigorous procedure to guarantee safety and longevity. This detailed guide will take you step by step through the professional installation of your solar batteries.Essential safety precautionsBefore starting any operation, it is essential to observe the following safety instructions to avoid any risk of electrocution or irreversible damage:Switch off the mains supply before carrying out any workNever connect the battery directly to the AC power supplyAlways observe the correct polarity (+ and - terminals)Ensure the battery is earthed with a resistance of < 0.1ΩWear protective equipment: insulated gloves, goggles, safety shoes, etc.Never dismantle the battery (loss of warranty)Do not use the switch during operation (risk of short-circuit)"Safety first: a poorly performed Pylontech installation may cause irreversible damage and void the warranty" - Official Pylontech manualEquipment required and contents checkEach Pylontech US5000 solar kit includes:US5000 battery module (40kg)2 x 210mm 4AWG power cables1 x 210mm RJ45 communication cable1 x 1000mm 6AWG earth cableScrew kitExternal cables to thesolar inverter are usually supplied separately depending on your configuration.Choice of location and mechanical installationLocation criteriaThe location must meet the following requirements:Flat, clean surfaceStable temperature between 0°C and 50°CProtected from moisture, dust and direct lightMinimum distance of 2m from heat sourcesMinimum distance of 0.5m from the air outlet of an inverterRack installationFor a multiple solar array installation:Insert each module into the rack providedSecure with the 4 screws suppliedMaximum 3 batteries stacked verticallyUse the battery coupling locksAddress configuration and DIP switch settingsMaster/slave principleIn a parallel installation, one battery is designated as the master and the others as slaves (maximum 15 slaves per master).Master identification: This is the battery whose Link 0 port remains free (not connected).Setting the DIP switchesThe DIP switches are configured as follows:DIP SwitchPosition 0Position 1UsageDIP1115200 bits/s9600 bits/sRS485 speedDIP2CAN resistor enabledCAN resistor disabledCAN communicationDIP3-4Not usedNot usedReservedRecommended configuration for Victron, WKS invertersFor common solar inverters (Victron, WKS, etc.):DIP1 = 1 (9600 bits/second)DIP2 = 0 (CAN resistor activated)Configuration: 1000Installation example: 4 batteries in parallelWiring diagramFor an installation of 4 Pylontech US5000 solar batteries:Master battery : Port Link 0 free, DIP switches set to 1000Slave batteries: identical DIP switches set to 0000RJ45 connections: Link 1 → Link 0 between batteriesDC connections: All batteries in parallel (+ together, - together)Wiring sequenceConnect the earth on each batteryInstall the DC circuit breaker (≥60VDC, type C or D)Wire power connections in parallelConnect RJ45 cables in a daisy chainCheck all connections before powering upRetrofit procedure: adding a battery to an existing arrayCaution: This procedure is crucial to preserve the life of your solar batteries.Preparatory stepsCharge all batteries to 100% before interconnectionCheck that charge levels are balancedSwitch off the systemWait at least 15 minutes after adding a batteryWhy take this precaution?Batteries with different charge levels can cause :Excessive equalisation currentsPremature cell wearPermanent system imbalancesA significant reduction in service life"Prior balancing of batteries before retrofitting is essential: it avoids destructive equalisation currents and guarantees optimum performance" - Expert WattuneedCommissioning step by stepStart-up sequenceFinal check: Check all connectionsCircuit breaker: Close the circuit breakerUS5000-B modules: Switch all module circuit breakers ONPower Switch: Switch all modules ONMaster start : Press the red SW button on the master >0.5sSoft-start: Wait 3 seconds for all LEDs to light up graduallyPost-start checksCheck that there are no alarms (red LED, buzzer)Check that the SOC LEDs are balanced (≤1 LED difference)Test communication with thesolar inverterSafe shutdown procedureFor temporary shutdown or maintenance:Switch off the external sourcePress the red SW switch on the master moduleSwitch all Power Switches to OFFSwitch all circuit breakers OFFOpen the external disconnection deviceMaintenance and monitoringPeriodic checksMonthly: Visual check of connections and indicatorsAnnually: Check all connections for tightnessStorage: Charge to 90% every 6 months if not in useWarning signsContact a professional immediately if you observe :Permanent red lightAlarm buzzerAbnormal heatingPersistent SOC LED imbalanceEconomic analysis and return on investmentInstallation costsThe cost of a Pylontech US5000 installation includes :Battery: €1,200 to €1,500 per moduleCabling accessories: €100 to €200Professional installation: €300 to €500ProfitabilityWith a properly sized solar kit, the return on investment is between 8 and 12 years, depending on :The price of electricity in your regionYour consumption profileThe level of self-consumption achievedCompatibility with invertersPylontech US5000 batteries are compatible with most solar inverters on the market:Victron Energy: MultiPlus-II, QuattroDeye : Hybrid rangeWKS : EVO SeriesGoodwe : ET SeriesCommunication is via CAN or RS485 protocol, depending on the inverter model.Frequently asked questions (FAQ)Can I mix Pylontech batteries of different models?No, we strongly advise against mixing different battery models. Only use identical batteries to guarantee performance and safety.How many batteries can I connect in parallel?A maximum of 16 batteries per group, with a maximum of 15 slaves per master. For larger installations, you need to create several groups.What should I do if the SOC LEDs don't balance?Leave the system at rest for at least 15 minutes. If the imbalance persists beyond 2 LED differences, contact your installer.How often should I check my installation?A monthly visual check is sufficient. A full technical check by a professional is recommended once a year.Can I install the batteries outdoors?No, Pylontech US5000 batteries are not designed for outdoor installation. They must be installed in a dry and temperate room.Wattuneed - Your partner in renewable energyRue Henripré 124821 Andrimont, BelgiumTelephone: +32 87 45 00 34Email : info@wattuneed.comFor all your solar array and solar kit projects, put your trust in Wattuneed's expertise. Our certified technicians will support you from design to commissioning of your photovoltaic installation.