Specialty Concepts SCS/90 - Manual (Page 20)

T R O U B L E S H O O T I N G : S O L A R P A N E L S
Refer to this section to help diagnose potential problems based on panel performance.
CASE PANELS SEE NOTE(S)
1
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Less charge than expected See Panel note 1
Panel Note 1 - The panels should generate a charge close to their rated load current
as presented in their specifications. To reach this level assumes that all conditions
are ideal. If the panel performance as measured at the panel inputs on the SCS
controller is much lower, consider the following potential problems.
••
Solar Panels Problem - Panels may be dirty, not aligned or other problem. TEST:
Monitor the "ARRAY CURRENT" reading before and after cleaning of the solar
panels and orientation. Locate panel where no shadows will cross it.
••
Bad Connection to the Solar Panel. TEST: Measure the voltage up at the solar
panel, and then down at the battery itself during a sunny period of maximum
charging. These voltage readings should not be more than 1 to 1.5 volts
different. More than that would indicate a bad connection or other voltage drop
in the system. Suspect crimp connections that have not been soldered.
••
Solar Panels may be defective - TEST: Disconnect the array by switching the
array circuit breaker off, and measure the solar array voltage between the
array(+) and the array(-). In sunny conditions, this should be 18-24 volts (in a 12
volt system). A lower value could indicate problems with the solar panel.