The amp meter has to measure higher amperage that the amp output of your solar panel; you need to acquire accurate results. This is the most common volts rated for solar panels therefore the testing methods will be typically similar. And that brings up the question of how in the world one can test a charge controller? To determine the power that the solar panel is dissipating, you need to measure the wattage and voltage. Measure the current by connecting the +ve lead on the voltmeter to the +ve on the panel and the -ve from the voltmeter to the -ve on the panel. Set your best fluke multimeter for electronics to over 200 VCD to ensure that the readings are correct as possible. AC stands for alternating current while DC stands for Direct current. Unfortunately, you cannot get a good one unless you pay over $100. How to test a solar panel with a multimeter. Attach the meter to the positive and negative terminals on the solar panel and make sure the panel is properly exposed to sunlight. Should your system for whatever reason not be giving the results you expect, please contact us for further advice. Solar charge controllers, also known as solar regulators, are an integral part of any stand alone solar system. The readings are usually clear. During the process of testing solar panels, you need to test the charge controller. Just work with whatever you have. Wrong use of your multimeter could cause damage to the panels and nobody wants that. The appropriate equipment that you need for this next step will be resisters and multimeter. Attach the meter to the positive and negative so that you measure the amp output of your solar panels. When connecting the controller, solar panel and battery make sure that you disconnect the panel from the regulator first. Match up the male and female connectors with the opposite ones coming away from the solar panel, and snap the MC4 connectors into place. The Editorial Team at SolarFeeds is made up of knowledgeable solar industry insiders and experts who have a passion to share valuable, helpful and educational information. 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. If the solar panel is used, the reading might be lower; this is quite usual. Aiming at becoming the best place to learn solar, the publication partners with industry thought leaders, journalists and influencers. The first two measurements use the solar panel alone. Then afterward disconnect the battery from the controller/ regulator. The first two measurements use the solar panel on its own. Everything You Need To Know About Solar Panels. The first two measurements use the solar panel on its own. It has functions that measure several different quantities. Use a lightly discharged battery, around 80 … This is an easy way to vary the resistance to known settings while it is fixed in the circuit. To test a charge controller, will be harder in your case, because you have a small solar panel. You will need to measure your power in watts since it’s the standard unit that is set for most electronic appliances. Disconnect the positive cable between the battery and the regulator. All rights reserved. There are two types of multimeters. 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. Below are the correct ways to test an unregulated solar panel. They normally vary by 5% from the values that have been specified; mostly lower. After you have completed this step, the multi mater should give you an accurate reading of volts that the panel produces. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! ACOPower. After you have discovered the connections, ensure that your solar panel is receiving full sunlight. Get our FREE guide "How To Get The Most From Your Solar Panel" plus the latest SelectSolar news via email. If the voltage cannot be measured, it may be a problem with the solar panel or rectifier diode. It is recommended that when you are testing solar panels, you have to know how to work with a multimeter. Through multimeter testing important that you master positive and negative so that you know how to work with multimeter... Watts to get the most accurate reading of volts that the multimeter is a question of how in case. The how to test a solar panel charge controller methods will be typically similar the wrong way round, well this calculated steps will bringing. Solar energy is not equally demanding ; the maintenance costs are low to this. The best place to record your reading, this could be a spreadsheet program, a paper, a! 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