3 problems with current – Go Power! GPR-25 User Manual
Page 10
Owner’s Manual |
GPR-25 Regulator
10
Carmanah Technologies Corp. Copyright © 2007
Document number: GPR-25_Manual_v4.doc
Last revised: June 21, 2007
10.3 Problems with Current
Voltage Reading: N/A
Charge Light: N/A
Current Reading: Less than expected
Time of Day: Daytime
Possible Cause:
(1) Wrong series/parallel configuration and/or wiring connections and/or wire gauge.
(2) Dirty or shaded module or lack of sun.
(3) Blown diode in solar module when two or more modules are connected in parallel.
How to tell:
(1) Check that the modules and batteries are configured correctly. Check all wiring connections.
(2) Modules look dirty, overhead object is shading modules or it is an overcast day in which a shadow
cannot be cast. Note: Avoid any shading no matter how small. An object as small as a broomstick
held across the solar module may cause the power output to be cut to almost nil. Overcast days may
also cut the power output of the module to almost nil.
(3) Disconnect one or both array wires from the regulator. Take a voltage reading between the positive
and negative array wire. A single 12 volt module should have an open circuit voltage between 18 and
22 volts. If you have more than one module, you will need to conduct this test between the positive
and negative terminals of each module junction box with either the positive or negative wires
disconnected from the terminal.
Remedy:
(1) Reconnect in correct configuration. Tighten all connections. Check wire gauge and length of wire run.
Refer to Suggested Minimum Wire Gauge in section 5.
(2) Clean modules, clear obstruction or wait for conditions to clear.
(3) If the voltage of a non-connected module (open circuit) is lower than 15 volts, contact the
manufacturer.
Voltage Reading: N/A
Charge Light: N/A
Current Reading: Zero
Time of Day: Daytime
Possible Cause:
(1) Wrong series/parallel configuration and/or wiring connections.
(2) Shaded module or overcast conditions.
(3) Blown diode in module.
How to tell:
(1) Check that modules and batteries are configured correctly and the negative solar and battery wires
are connected directly to the regulator. Check all wiring connections
(2) An object is shading modules or it is an overcast day in which a shadow cannot be cast.
(3) Disconnect one or both array wires from the regulator. Take a voltage reading between the positive
and negative array wire. A 12 volt module should have an open circuit voltage between 18 and 22
volts. If you have more than one module, you may need to conduct this test between the positive
and negative terminals of each module junction box with either the positive or negative wires
disconnected from the terminal.
Remedy:
(1) Reconnect in correct configuration. Tighten all connections.
(2) Clear obstruction or wait for conditions to clear.
(3) If the voltage of a non-connected module (open circuit) is lower than 15 volts, contact the
manufacturer
Voltage Reading: N/A
Charge Light: N/A
Current Reading: Erratic
Time of Day: N/A
Possible Cause:
(1) Battery or fuse connection.
(2) Electric noise.