You can change the setting later if required. It should indicate that it is on now. Re-connect the solar panel directly to the battery without the regulator. When connecting the controller, solar panel and battery make sure that you disconnect the panel from the regulator first. Tags: None. This will come in handy in the case of solar plus storage. The auto range measures voltage and current only so the only adjustments will vary between those quantities only. After discovering it, you will have to remove the cover then you will see the connections inside. The amp meter has to measure higher amperage that the amp output of your solar panel; you need to acquire accurate results. Connect the wires from the controller to the solar panel. Disconnect the alligator clips only after you have switched off the multimeter. At Sunstore we are often asked about how the solar charge controller load output terminal should be used. Do not short circuit either the panel or the battery. Then bring the other black lead alligator clips to the negative side and connect them. The first two measurements use the solar panel on its own. A charge controller, or charge regulator, is basically a voltage and/or current regulator to keep batteries from overcharging. To ensure that you don’t blow your device’s fuse, set the maximum amperage sensitivity to well above your expected reading. During the process of testing solar panels, you need to test the charge controller. You will need a solar panel tester known as an amp meter. For example, five 100 Watt panels in parallel would be 5.29 x 5 = 26.45 Amps. The first two measurements use the solar panel on its own. A variable resistance box. The fact is that solar panels are passive energy gatherers and we can’t tell much just looking at or touching them. To measure amperage set it to DC Amperage. Attach the meter to the positive and negative so that you measure the amp output of your solar panels. Take the number of panels x watts to get the total watts of the solar array. Check all the connections and terminals for good electrical contact. If the voltage cannot be measured, it may be a problem with the solar panel or rectifier diode. Solar panels today have become the best alternative as a source of energy; you use it to power any form of an electronic device. Match up the male and female connectors with the opposite ones coming away from the solar panel, and snap the MC4 connectors into place. 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. the PWM charge controller can be considered as an electric switch between the solar panel and battery packs. Measure operating current as described above. Disconnect the solar panel completely from the battery and regulator, Ensure that the multimeter is set to measure Volts. It has functions that measure several different quantities. The first two measurements use the solar panel alone. Disconnect the positive cable between the battery and the panel. If you want to publish your articles on SolarFeeds Magazine, click here. It is also necessary to measure the voltage of the battery. In this section we outline how to do this using a multimeter to measure current (amps) and voltage. Disconnect the positive cable that is between the battery and controller. Best 12v battery solar charger panel typically put out about 13.6V to 17.0 volts use to charge 12v battery or to run any 12v devices. You will need to measure your power in watts since it’s the standard unit that is set for most electronic appliances. When you are testing this ensure that your solar panel is getting full sunlight. The readings are usually congested. Good grief that solar energy is not equally demanding; the maintenance costs are low. If the actual voltage … Using this clever technology, MPPT solar charge controllers can be up to 30% more efficient, depending on the battery voltage and type of solar panel connected. The direct current usually flows in one direction and is required for low voltage needs; solar panels in this case. MPPT or ‘maximum power point tracking’ controllers are far more advanced than PWM controllers and enable the solar panel to operate at its optimum voltage for maximum power output. To test a charge controller, will be harder in your case, because you have a small solar panel. Top 10 Thin Film Solar Manufacturers in Europe. During the process of testing solar panels, you need to test the charge controller. Solar charge controllers, also known as solar regulators, are an integral part of any stand alone solar system. Sorry, your blog cannot share posts by email. It is recommended that when you are testing solar panels, you have to know how to work with a multimeter. After this, the formula used will be current = voltage. There are two different ways to load the system: Start with a full charged battery and connect a load slightly greater than the solar current. This is particularly important for higher voltage panels. It is crucial to test solar panels before you achieve the commercial operation date (COD). The expectations with which you get a solar set should be met right when you begin using them. Attach the meter to the positive and negative terminals on the solar panel and make sure the panel is properly exposed to sunlight. This process will measure the current flowing between the solar panel, controller and solar batteries. A lot of neophyte solar enthusiasts wonder how they can verify if their solar panel is working. 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.. Measure the voltage between the +ve and -ve terminals by connecting the negative contact from the voltmeter to the negative on the panel and the positive contact on the voltmeter to the positive on the panel. MPPT Charge Controller Advantage What is PWM. Here is a full guide on how to test solar panels. Ensure that the battery is not fully charged otherwise it will not accept the current passing. Notify me of follow-up comments by email. Solar Charge Controller Companies To Look Out For Do not open the Amazon links we are providing here unless you read this: There are many people who fell victims for buying cheap MPPT Solar charge controllers. Sullens Farm, Sunnings Lane, Upminster, Essex, RM14 2DQ, UK Testing solar panels is a question of how high-performance are solar panels you got. It’s a 555 based simple circui… measure the battery voltage and write it down. You will get the help you need and even buy your first solar panel- you might need more than one. To find out about the approval voltage of your panels, check inside the converter box and read the markings. You might be wondering why not the other way round, well this calculated steps will avoid bringing damage to the controller. After you have discovered the connections, ensure that your solar panel is receiving full sunlight. You should hear a “click” when the connectors are seated securely. Connect the panel to the regulator and battery. AC stands for alternating current while DC stands for Direct current. Doing this will give you the confidence and assurance that your readings will be accurate. in the following order, connect things Battery to Charge Controller. Get our FREE guide "How To Get The Most From Your Solar Panel" plus the latest SelectSolar news via email. This measures the current that the panel (and charge controller) are passed to the battery. If the multimeter indicates a function overload, you need to adjust the VCD to a higher rating since the VCD was too low. If your multimeter is working as expected and you find no fault in it, be assured that the readings you receive are accurate. publish your articles on SolarFeeds Magazine, click here. 26.45 Amps x 1.25 = 33 amps and would be too much for the controller. To get an accurate measurement, you will need to ensure that your panel is in full sunlight when you test. How to Test a Solar Panel with a Multimeter. They normally vary by 5% from the values that have been specified; mostly lower. The converter box is found at the back of the solar panel. The readings are usually clear. For example, if your panel has approval for 30 volts, set the multimeter to have a higher reading. The first two measurements use the solar panel alone. The solar panels, especially new ones must produce a voltage that is close to the one that is approved. The solar charge controller must not limit the current flow during testing. I have a solar system with four 300watts mono solar panels. If you measure current without the regulator, but not with the regulator, then the regulator may be faulty. 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. Using converter you can charge mobile also. Make sure you understand how to use the multimeter, and that you are using appropriate settings for the power you expect to measure. 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. Best solar panel for charging 12 volt battery is perfect for portable off-grid systems such as small cabins, RVs, sheds, car and boats. The best way to check for signs of life is to measure a solar panel’s volta… When reconnecting, connect the regulator to the battery first, and then connect to the solar panel. Post was not sent - check your email addresses! Required fields are marked *. This innovative technology has helped industries, homeowners and commercial businesses to cut on costs. Tilt the solar panel in order for your solar panel to have full sunlight exposure. To measure voltage set it to DC voltage. Once you've attached the input wires to the charge connector, you should have 2 loose wires, each ending in an MC4 connector. This is the most common volts rated for solar panels therefore the testing methods will be typically similar. 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. Remember, no sun no power. Ensure that the battery is not fully charged otherwise it will not accept the current passing. Ensure that the multimeter is set at 10A, at least to start with. During reconnection, connect the controller to the battery first and then the controller to the solar panel. 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. A place to record your reading, this could be a spreadsheet program, a paper, and a pen. 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. While using this multimeter select the appropriate function. For correct readings, I would suggest that you go through and manually measure all the resistance settings. Remember, if the battery is full it may not be accepting current, resulting in a low reading. Find the voltage (V) and current (A) ratings of your panel (you can usually find these written on the back of the panel). Other forms of energy are expensive due to consistent maintenance that is called for. Check that sunlight conditions are suitable for producing readings on your system. After you have completed this step, the multi mater should give you an accurate reading of volts that the panel produces. cold temperatures) and as always, round up. After that process, the last step should be connecting the negative lead alligator clips of the multimeter to the positive terminal of the battery. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. The PMW solar charge controller will match the solar panels voltage to that of the battery bank that is 11.7 V but keep the current at 5.2A. Solar charge controllers work by regulating this voltage to a level that can safely charge batteries and run appliances. That being done connect the solar panel to the controller and also the controller to the solar batteries. Measure the operating current by connecting the +ve from the multimeter to the positive cable from the regulator, and the -ve from the meter to the positive battery terminal. Check the condition of any fuses that might be in the power path. A multimeter is a device that you can use to test the voltage and current of any device; including the solar panels. To measure the amp output of your solar panel you will need to attach the meter to the positive and negative. Use a lightly discharged battery, around 80 … How to test a REDARC solar blanket or solar panel . If you connect  the meter the wrong way round then you will get a negative current showing. A good quality multimeter-an auto range preferably or one that can read current and voltage. Your email address will not be published. And that brings up the question of how in the world one can test a charge controller? You will need a volt meter, possibly several sunny hours to do this. This charge controller does not have to be used solely on one panel and one battery; a 10A PWM controller cab be used to regulate the charge of an array of solar panels connected in parallel with a total power of 160W. 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. Will Solar Highways Pave the Way to the Future? The voltage from the panel is fine, the voltage from the batteries is not what I'd expect (but they were fully charged when I hooked things back up, but how would I know if it's a problem with the charge controller besides buying a new one and swapping it out? This will avoid causing damage to the regulator. It is good to realize how effective the solar panels are performing in their installed location before you start their operation. Everything You Need To Know About Solar Panels. PWM is short for Pulse Width Modulation, it’s a technique to modulating the width of pulse under certain rules, thus change the voltage and frequency of output energy from the solar panel to charge the battery. Solar Charge Controller Functions. Best 12v Battery Solar Charger. As long as the amp meter is rated higher than the solar panel, you will be able to measure the output effectively. You will perform a specific calculation for testing the solar panels. You need to optimize the performance and get the most out of your solar panel production. If the solar panel is used, the reading might be lower; this is quite usual. When reconnecting, connect the regulator to the battery first, and then connect to the … Its primary function ensures that the deep cycle batteries don’t overcharge during the day . Aiming at becoming the best place to learn solar, the publication partners with industry thought leaders, journalists and influencers. 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. Connect the read lead alligator clips to the side that is positive. I am sure nobody loves being cheated, at least not with an investment such as this one. 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. 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. Step 3 - Measure Current Make sure that the alligator clips are in the right port to find the DC Amps. To Begin Measure Solar Panel Amperage. That way you get 11.7 x 5.2 = 60 Watts going into your battery bank instead of 100 Watts. You can download and print the pdf version of How to Test Your Solar Panel and Regulator. You will need to have the highest capacity factor that you could achieve. 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. This will come in handy in the case of solar plus storage. © Copyright 2020 Select Solar Ltd 2020. Make sure that you are measuring at the suitable voltage level for a solar panel; measure at higher volts than what your panel is approved for. To find the current, you have to connect the positive cable that you have recently removed, to the lead alligator clips from the multimeter. When you are using solar panels, it is important that you know how to test a solar panel. Ensure that you connect the black alligator clips to the negative side while the red ones to the positive side and that the multimeter is on. 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. If you arrived here looking to buy a solar panel regulator, then you'll want to visit our solar charge controller/regulator section. There are two types of multimeters. You need to have a panel tester that is known as an amp meter. To test solar panel amperage output, put your solar panel in direct sunlight, set your multi-meter to the DC “amps” setting. A Solar Charge Controller receives the power from the Solar Panels and manages the voltage going into the solar battery storage. You have to do a demonstration and show that your solar panel project is ready to operate. The multimeter will find the DC voltage. Most "12 volt" panels put out about 16 to 20 volts, so if there is no regulation the batteries will be damaged from overcharging. How to test a solar panel with a multimeter. Set your best fluke multimeter for electronics to over 200 VCD to ensure that the readings are correct as possible. The average 12 volt solar panel produces between 12 and 21 volts, a level that would overcharge and damage a battery if transferred directly to it. This should be the voltage that your solar panel dissipates. If you want to make sure that your panels are of high quality, you will find out through multimeter testing. Use a multimeter to measure the entire system, from the solar battery and solar charge controller to the solar panel, first disconnect the solar panel and measure the voltage, as long as there is sunlight, there will be solar output. During the shinning day the battery voltage is fully charged as indicated from my charge controller, but when I connect the loads on it, the battery voltage starts dropping until it gets to zero and the system goes off. There is a practical limit though, if the solar array is too large then the power is just wasted, since the charge controller is always limiting the output. Verify the system wiring is correct and intact. To obtain the rated output of your panel you will need full, bright sunlight falling directly onto the panel. You then divide it by the voltage of your battery bank to get amps. DIY AUTOMATIC SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Hello friends Today I am back with another project called DIY AUTOMATIC SOLAR 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. 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