cold temperatures) and as always, round up. If the multimeter indicates a function overload, you need to adjust the VCD to a higher rating since the VCD was too low. This is the most common volts rated for solar panels therefore the testing methods will be typically similar. Connect the read lead alligator clips to the side that is positive. There are two types of multimeters. To obtain the rated output of your panel you will need full, bright sunlight falling directly onto the panel. To measure amperage set it to DC Amperage. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How to test a REDARC solar blanket or solar panel . I would not want you to purchase a set of solar equipment with the wrong specifications of the panel voltage for a price that is escalated. The function of a charge controller is to regulate the charge going into your battery bank from your solar panel array and prevent overcharging and reverse current flow at night.. You will get the help you need and even buy your first solar panel- you might need more than one. This measures the current that the panel (and charge controller) are passed to the battery. Photovoltaic panels produce electricity when exposed to light, so it is recommended that you cover the front of the solar panel if outdoors to help avoid shocks. If you are testing a charge controller you will need to make sure that the battery is NOT fully charged otherwise it will not be able to accept current. If you arrived here looking to buy a solar panel regulator, then you'll want to visit our solar charge controller/regulator section. It is recommended that when you are testing solar panels, you have to know how to work with a multimeter. You will need to have the highest capacity factor that you could achieve. It is good to realize how effective the solar panels are performing in their installed location before you start their operation. Match up the male and female connectors with the opposite ones coming away from the solar panel, and snap the MC4 connectors into place. in the following order, connect things Battery to Charge Controller. I believe that you have attained a clear picture and process of testing the solar panels and as well as why you need to perform this test. Do not short circuit either the panel or the battery. You then divide it by the voltage of your battery bank to get amps. When reconnecting, connect the regulator to the battery first, and then connect to the solar panel. You need to have a panel tester that is known as an amp meter. They normally vary by 5% from the values that have been specified; mostly lower. When you are testing this ensure that your solar panel is getting full sunlight. You can change the setting later if required. You might be wondering why not the other way round, well this calculated steps will avoid bringing damage to the controller. In this section we outline how to do this using a multimeter to measure current (amps) and voltage. Should your system for whatever reason not be giving the results you expect, please contact us for further advice. It is crucial to test solar panels before you achieve the commercial operation date (COD). To determine the power that the solar panel is dissipating, you need to measure the wattage and voltage. This process will measure the current flowing between the solar panel, controller and solar batteries. DIY AUTOMATIC SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Hello friends Today I am back with another project called DIY AUTOMATIC SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER. The first two measurements use the solar panel alone. Your controller's output voltage will depend on the state of charge of the battery, the amount of solar energy/panel size, and battery (and/or controller) temperature. Observe polarities when connecting solar panels and batteries. Auto Range multi meter- Switches between ranges automatically for best reading. A good quality multimeter-an auto range preferably or one that can read current and voltage. A lot of neophyte solar enthusiasts wonder how they can verify if their solar panel is working. You will perform a specific calculation for testing the solar panels. Check that sunlight conditions are suitable for producing readings on your system. Step 3 - Measure Current Measure the operating current by connecting the +ve from the multimeter to the positive cable from the panel, and the -ve from the meter to the positive battery terminal. While checking if your 12V battery can run devices or vehicles is a pretty good sign that everything is well, this doesn’t always tell you how the panel is doing. Set the measurements of the multimeter to DC Amps. MPPT charge controllers currently limit their output, so technically you can make the solar array as large as you want and the charge controller will limit the output current to the maximum allowable. We recommended a factor of safety of at least 1.25, meaning you would multiply the current from your panels by 1.25 and then compare that to the 30 amps. Best solar panel for charging 12 volt battery is perfect for portable off-grid systems such as small cabins, RVs, sheds, car and boats. Find the voltage (V) and current (A) ratings of your panel (you can usually find these written on the back of the panel). During the process of testing solar panels, you need to test the charge controller. When disconnecting the solar panel, regulator and battery, take care to disconnect the panel from the regulator first, and then disconnect the regulator from the battery. Required fields are marked *. You should hear a “click” when the connectors are seated securely. Set your best fluke multimeter for electronics to over 200 VCD to ensure that the readings are correct as possible. Attach the meter to the positive and negative so that you measure the amp output of your solar panels. To test solar panel amperage output, put your solar panel in direct sunlight, set your multi-meter to the DC “amps” setting. Disconnect the positive cable that is between the battery and controller. I have a solar system with four 300watts mono solar panels. Take the number of panels x watts to get the total watts of the solar array. The converter box is found at the back of the solar panel. It has functions that measure several different quantities. Make sure you understand how to use the multimeter, and that you are using appropriate settings for the power you expect to measure. A variable resistance box. © Copyright 2020 Select Solar Ltd 2020. Remember, no sun no power. Company Registration Number: 04303044 VAT no: 794270796, How To: Test Your Solar Panel & Regulator, Specialist Batteries Enersys SBS Battery Range, Solar Power Kits For Boats Caravans Motorhomes etc, Solar Power Kits (off-grid) for Buildings, Projects etc, SOLARA M-SERIES - Extremely flat, walkable and semi bendable, How To Check Your Solar Panel & Regulator/Controller | Select Solar, solar charge controller/regulator section, pdf version of How to Test Your Solar Panel and Regulator. The world one can test a REDARC solar blanket or solar panel is full! Brings up the question of how high-performance are solar panels are of high quality, you to... Use the solar panel alone four 300watts mono solar panels before you start their operation about the voltage... Battery packs 'll want to make sure that your solar panels can sometimes lead to inaccurate results when trying diagnose... Lot of neophyte solar enthusiasts wonder how they can verify if their panel! 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