This HN post is about claude 4.5 and you come here speaking about how "claude" does not give you satisfactory answer when, most likely, you didn't even try claude 4.5 in the first place.
Claude 4.5 after a few web searches and running a couple python scripts for analysis:
Yes, your configuration should work!
Based on my analysis, two strings of four Phono Solar PS440M8GFH panels will be compatible with the EG4 12kPV inverter for upstate New York conditions.
Key Findings:
Voltage Safety:
Cold weather maximum (-25°C/-13°F): 182V - well below the 600V limit (only 30% of maximum)
Standard operating voltage: 128V - comfortably within the 120-500V MPPT range
Hot weather minimum (40°C/104°F panel temp): 121V - just above the 120V MPPT minimum
Current:
Operating current: ~13.8A per string - well within the 25A MPPT limit (55% of capacity)
Total System:
8 panels × 440W = 3,520W (3.5kW) - well below the 12kW inverter rating
Important Considerations:
Hot weather margin is tight: At extreme hot temperatures, the voltage drops to about 121V, which is only 1V above the MPPT minimum. This means:
The system will work, but efficiency might be slightly reduced on the hottest days
The MPPT controller should still track power effectively
More robust alternative: If you want more safety margin, consider 5 panels per string instead:
Cold: 228V (still safe)
Hot: 151V (much better margin above 120V minimum)
Total: 10 panels = 4.4kW
Wire each string to a separate MPPT on the EG4 12kPV (it has 2 MPPTs), which is perfect for your 2-string configuration.
Bottom Line:
Your planned configuration of 2 strings × 4 panels will work year-round in upstate New York without safety issues. The system is conservatively sized and should perform well!