Adding panels to existing 3.99KW installation with SolarEdge 3800 inverter

[ApacheXMD]

I have an existing installation with a single string of (14) Solarworld 285 panels with a SolarEdge SE3800A inverter.

If I wanted to DIY an upgrade with two additional panels while keeping the same inverter, is it simply a matter of purchasing the two panels, two optimizers, and plugging them into the existing string? (Assuming I can physically mount the panels properly)

I know there is a power limit for the inverter (135% of 3800W=5130W?), but is 16 panels on one string ok to do?

I have read the inverter installation manual, and i realized I need to pair the optimizers. Does this process reset the whole system and repairs old and new optimizers, or will it just bring in the new ones? The original installers mapped out the system with the physical layout with SolarEdges interweb monitoring service, and I can see the pretty graphs on my phone. What will I need update SolarEdges monitoring interface to reflect the new panels?

Thanks in advance.

[foo1bar]

Solaredge has a planning tool on their website.
You can try using that to see if there is a set of optimizers that will work.
Possibly it's just as easy as you describe. If it's the same panels, same optimizers, and you're below the power limit of the inverter, it should be basically just plug them in, turn the system on and add the new optimizers to the layout. (which you'll need installer access to do - but that's likely doable)
If it is different panels and/or different optimizer model, you need to make sure everything is compatible - that all your optimizers and your inverter can all talk together.

There is a string length limit - and again I'd use the solaredge website's planning tool to confirm you'll be OK.

I'd also look at the daily performance on your best days - if you increase output by 15% are you going to start having clipping (hitting the maximum output for the inverter)? If so, for how long each day and for how many days? Probably not significant amount of power that's "lost", but you'll know for sure once you look at the graphs and do some calculations/guesstimates.

[ApacheXMD]

Thanks for the reply

My best days produce about 3.2-3.3kw peak, so plus about 15% puts me at about 3.8kw, so that looks ok and should have minimal clipping.

I'll check out solaredge's planning tools.

Does gaining installer access require the original installers to relinquish rights or have them grant access or anything like that? Or is it simply between me and solaredge? I do not want to step on any toes.

Also I guess I should see if a diy upgrade violates any warranties of the original installation.

Thanks again the info, I need to do a little bit more homework.

[Ampster]

............
Does gaining installer access require the original installers to relinquish rights or have them grant access or anything like that? Or is it simply between me and solaredge? I do not want to step on any toes.

Also I guess I should see if a diy upgrade violates any warranties of the original installation.

Thanks again the info, I need to do a little bit more homework.

You are asking the right questions. Only the installer can give you the answer that will be binding.