One of the standout features of the Emporia Energy Vue 3 home energy monitoring system is Nesting. This advanced feature allows users to integrate multiple monitoring devices, including additional Vue 3 units or compatible devices, into a cohesive network. Through the Emporia app, Nesting enables a combined view of your energy usage by aggregating data from various monitors that are tracking the same electrical circuits or systems. This integration is especially beneficial for users looking to monitor comprehensive energy usage across multiple panels or devices without duplicating data entries.
Note: Nesting works across different device types; however, you can only Nest other devices under Vue circuits.
Why Use Nesting?
Nesting is particularly useful in scenarios such as:
Monitoring energy usage in setups with both main and sub electrical panels, each equipped with a Vue 3 device (or another Vue energy monitor model).
Incorporating multiple Vue 3 units within a single panel to extend monitoring beyond the standard 16 circuits limit.
Integrating Smart Plugs or EV Chargers that track energy consumption already monitored by a Vue 3 unit.
Combining a Vue 3 device with a Vue Utility Connect to differentiate between total system consumption (captured by the Utility Connect) and detailed circuit-level consumption (monitored by the Vue 3).
200A CT Usage in Nested Setups
Whether you need 200A current transformers (CTs) on a nested Vue 3 depends on the installation specifics:
Same Panel: If you install a second Vue 3 in the same panel and nest it under the first, omit the 200A CTs for the second device since the primary device already monitors the main circuit. - Sub-Panel (subpanel): For installations in a sub-panel or similar downstream setups, 200A CTs are optional. They can capture the total usage of the sub-panel if not already monitored by the primary device's 50A CTs, ensuring accurate app calculations without being mandatory. Also, when monitoring circuits from different panels, please make sure that voltage alignment is maintained. Variations in voltage references between panels can result in inaccurate readings. For such cases, proper calibration during the setup is crucial. You can also extend CT sensor leads to monitor circuits in separate panels using appropriate cables, such as CAT 5. This setup enables the Vue device in one panel to effectively track circuits in another panel.
Example: Main and sub-panel Monitoring
Consider a scenario with Vue 3 units installed in both a main panel and a downstream sub-panel.
Both units are equipped with 200A CTs, with the main panel also having 7x 50A CTs, and the sub-panel having 4x 50A CTs. The Home screen within the Emporia application will look something like the following after initial setup:
Since the sub-panel draws power through the main panel's breakers, nesting the sub-panel Vue 3 under the main panel Vue 3 in the app prevents data duplication and organizes the devices logically for easier monitoring.
Nesting Devices: Step-by-Step Guide
To nest one device under another, follow these steps:
1. Open the Emporia app and select the Menu (☰) in the top left corner.
2. Go to Manage Devices and choose the device you wish to nest (the downstream device).
3. Tap on Vue Info and then use the Nest Under drop-down to select the primary device.
4. Confirm by selecting Save.
After saving, the devices will be reorganized in the app, showing the nested device's data under the primary device, enhancing data accuracy and usability.
Choosing a Nesting Location
Typically, you should nest a device under the mains or a sub-panel already monitored by a 50A CT. However, the system also allows for nesting under specific 50A CT-monitored circuits if necessary.
Another factor to consider when choosing a nesting location is whether the secondary panel operates as an independent feed (parallel to the main panel) or truly functions as a subpanel connected downstream. Parallel setups may require additional considerations, like using cable extensions for CT sensors to ensure accurate monitoring.
To monitor additional circuits by adding another Vue 3 to the same panel, simply connect it to the same breakers as the existing unit, combining the wire harnesses according to the installation guide. When monitoring 17 to 24 circuits, one Vue 3 can be configured with 16 CTs, while the second is connected with 8 CTs. Both devices are nested for unified data management in the Emporia app.
To monitor additional circuits by adding another Vue 3 to the same panel, you can just connect it to the same breakers as the existing unit, combining the wire harnesses according to the installation guide.
When installing a Vue device in a subpanel, this approach prevents the need to extend wires to the main panel, minimizing installation complexity. It also helps ensure voltage consistency and accurate monitoring of the specific circuits in the subpanel.
Key Considerations for Multi-Panel Monitoring
Voltage Alignment: Ensure both panels share the same voltage reference to avoid skewed data.
CT Sensor Extensions: For inter-panel monitoring, extend CT sensor leads using CAT 5 cables.
Device Placement: Install additional Vue devices in secondary panels for specialized monitoring.
Configuration Type: Identify whether the secondary panel is a true subpanel or operates parallel to the main panel for optimal setup.
Feedback and Suggestions
As we continue to develop our knowledge base, your feedback is invaluable. If there are aspects of this guide that could be clearer or if you have suggestions for improvement, please reach out to our Customer Support team. We're committed to enhancing your experience with Emporia Energy products and helping you manage your energy more effectively.