Zephyr® installation advice
Deployment Height
The Zephyr monitor should be mounted at least 2.5m to 3m in height from the ground as this provides a representative height for human exposure, while making it discreet and easily accessible for maintenance purposes.
Deployment Positioning
The Zephyr monitor ideally should not be shielded by any local obstructions (i.e., mounting the Zephyr above a wall or ledge, where the inlets may be obstructed) – this will introduce a wind-direction-dependent error to the results.
Solar panel installation advice
Deployment Direction
If powered via solar power, the solar panel should be directed towards the south (if located in the northern hemisphere) or the north (if located in the southern hemisphere). This will ensure the solar panel receives as much sunlight as possible. We recommend you shield your Zephyr with the solar panel to avoid direct sunlight – the Zephyr should be around 15cm below the solar panel.
Solar Panel Angle
The solar panel should be angled more vertically during winter to gain most of the low winter sun and tilted more upwards during summer to maximize the output. The optimum tilt angle is calculated by adding 15 degrees to your latitude during winter and subtracting 15 degrees from your latitude during summer. For example, if your latitude is 34°, the optimum tilt angle for your solar panels during winter will be 34° + 15° = 49°. The summer optimum tilt angle on the other hand will be 34° – 15° = 19°.
Solar Panel Shadowing
If solar panels are installed under trees, or next to major obstructions (e.g., buildings), the amount of power received will be significantly reduced and may result in power loss. Consider available deployment locations carefully and keep an eye on Zephyr power and data records in the winter if this is a concern
EarthSense Managed Installation
Should installation be carried out by EarthSense Field Engineers as part of the managed services, we require suitable mounting points at each monitoring location, these are the responsibility of the client. Requirements include:
Mounting
A fixed mounting pole with a diameter equal to or greater than 48mm (a standard scaffold pole). The Zephyr should be mounted at a height of approximately 2.5m - 3m from ground level as this provides a representative height for human exposure while making it discreet and easily accessible for maintenance purposes. The pole needs to be anchored to the ground as such that wind loading caused by solar panel installation is accounted for.
Deployment Location
A level and clear ground is required so ensure safe usage of manual height equipment for installation along with a location where no traffic control is required. If this is not feasible, further costs may need to be scoped for installation. Where the site is located on private grounds, or where there may be limited access, EarthSense will require key contact details to ensure the Zephyrs can be accessed when necessary. Responsibilities for permissions, access and site arrangements are those of the client unless otherwise agreed with EarthSense.
Solar Power Requirements
The location must have a clear line-of-sight facing South with no overshadowing. There must be room above the Zephyr to mount the solar panel at least 15cm above the top of the Zephyr.
Mains Power Requirements
There must be access to a 110-240v AC within 2m of where the Zephyr is mounted. This can be supplied as a 13amp 3-pin weatherproof socket, or a 16amp commando socket (230v blue or 110v yellow type).
