Post by spiderbob on Feb 15, 2016 19:26:49 GMT -8
This is how I check the system, perhaps a tech guy will chime in and correct anything that is wrong.
Checking the Efficiency of Solar Panels
Solar panel users should check their solar panels regularly, not just to ensure that they are getting the most out of their investment, but to ensure that they are functioning properly and have sustained no damage. To check the efficiency of a given set of panels using a multimeter, I do it this way:
1 Do the test on a bright, sunny day with the panels positioned in such a way as to get the most amount of sun. Additionally, check the manual for the exact voltage of the panels as set by the manufacturer.
2 Open the connections at the pigtails, both the positive and negative connections.
3 Set the multimeter to measure DC and configure the voltage at a high level, preferably much higher than the panel's rated voltage (indicated in the manual or behind the panel). For example, if the panel is rated at 12 volts, set the multimeter to 100 volts.
4 Connect the probes to the proper wire. Turn the multimeter on. The panel is working efficiently if the voltage number matches the rated voltage (or very close).
5 Next, the panel's ampere ratings should also be checked. However, do not just switch the multimeter settings while the connection is live, as this can create a spark. Remove the multimeter wires and switch the settings to DC amperes, again setting it to a much higher setting than the rated amperes.
6 Cover from the sun and reconnect the wires. Uncover the panel and then switch the multimeter on. The ampere rating should match the panel's indicated rating, although having a slightly higher number is not unheard of.
Having the ampere and volt ratings close to the manufacturer ratings indicates that the solar panel is operating at high efficiency. If the numbers are too low or the multimeter is not picking up anything at all, call Renogy for the next step.
Checking the Efficiency of Solar Panels
Solar panel users should check their solar panels regularly, not just to ensure that they are getting the most out of their investment, but to ensure that they are functioning properly and have sustained no damage. To check the efficiency of a given set of panels using a multimeter, I do it this way:
1 Do the test on a bright, sunny day with the panels positioned in such a way as to get the most amount of sun. Additionally, check the manual for the exact voltage of the panels as set by the manufacturer.
2 Open the connections at the pigtails, both the positive and negative connections.
3 Set the multimeter to measure DC and configure the voltage at a high level, preferably much higher than the panel's rated voltage (indicated in the manual or behind the panel). For example, if the panel is rated at 12 volts, set the multimeter to 100 volts.
4 Connect the probes to the proper wire. Turn the multimeter on. The panel is working efficiently if the voltage number matches the rated voltage (or very close).
5 Next, the panel's ampere ratings should also be checked. However, do not just switch the multimeter settings while the connection is live, as this can create a spark. Remove the multimeter wires and switch the settings to DC amperes, again setting it to a much higher setting than the rated amperes.
6 Cover from the sun and reconnect the wires. Uncover the panel and then switch the multimeter on. The ampere rating should match the panel's indicated rating, although having a slightly higher number is not unheard of.
Having the ampere and volt ratings close to the manufacturer ratings indicates that the solar panel is operating at high efficiency. If the numbers are too low or the multimeter is not picking up anything at all, call Renogy for the next step.