The Knowledge Corner

What happen if I exceed the maximum solar input?

If you exceed the maximum solar input on a solar charge controller, it can cause damage to the charge controller or other components in the system. This is because the charge controller is designed to handle a certain maximum amount of power from the solar panels, and exceeding this limit can overload the system.

Here are some of the possible consequences of exceeding the maximum solar input on a solar charge controller:

1. Overheating: When the solar charge controller is overloaded, it may generate excessive heat, which can damage the components and reduce their lifespan. Overheating can also be a safety hazard, as it can cause fires or other damage.
2. Reduced efficiency: If the solar charge controller is overloaded, it may not be able to properly regulate the charge going into the battery. This can result in reduced efficiency and a shorter lifespan for the battery.
3. Damage to the solar panels: If the solar charge controller is unable to handle the excess power from the solar panels, it can cause damage to the panels themselves. This can result in reduced power output or complete failure of the solar panels.
4. Risk of electrical shock: If the solar charge controller is overloaded, it can create a risk of electrical shock.

To avoid these issues, it's important to ensure that the solar charge controller you're using is designed to handle the maximum input of your solar panels. You should also avoid connecting too many solar panels to a single charge controller and monitor the system regularly to ensure that it's working properly. If you're unsure about the proper setup for your solar panels and charge controller, it's recommended to consult a professional for guidance.

What happens if I exceed the maximum inverter output?

If you exceed the maximum output capacity of an inverter, there are a few things that could happen, depending on the specific situation:

Inverter overload: If you exceed the maximum output capacity of an inverter, it can go into an "overload" state, where it will shut down to protect itself from damage. Some inverters may also have a built-in protection mechanism that will automatically limit the output to the maximum capacity to prevent overload.

Reduced efficiency: Running an inverter at or near its maximum capacity for extended periods can reduce its efficiency. Inverter efficiency typically decreases as the load on the inverter increases, which can result in higher operating costs over time.

Damage to the inverter: In severe cases, exceeding the maximum output capacity of an inverter can cause damage to the inverter, which may require repair or replacement.

To avoid these issues, it's important to choose an inverter with a capacity that meets your needs and to avoid overloading the inverter whenever possible. It's also a good idea to consult with a qualified electrician or solar installer to ensure that your system is properly designed and installed.

How many solar panels can I wire to my generator?

It's important to check the specifications of the solar charge controller that is on the solar generator to see how many solar panels it can handle. Most solar generators will have a maximum input power or current rating, which determines the maximum number of solar panels that can be wired to it.

Usually, our CEP220 solar charge controller can handle up 240W/12V; 480W/24V max solar panel input; our CEP300 solar charge controller can handle up 450W/12V; 900W/24V max solar panel input; our CEP440 can handle up 600W/12V; 1200W/24V max solar panel input. Our CEP800 MPPT Solar Charge Controller can handle up 80A (960W @ 12V / 1,920W @ 24V / 3,840W @ 48V) max solar panel input. Rember, that you can upgrade the solar charge controller regarding your needs.

How many batteries can I wire to my generator?

There is not a limit number of batteries that you can wire to your generator. You can add as many you need. Solar generators are designed to work with a specific range of battery voltages and capacities, so it's important to choose the right batteries and wiring configuration for your specific needs.

Can I use the solar generator while it’s charging?

The answer is yes, you can use a solar generator while it's charging. The cool feature is available in all our generators. Some of our generators can be charged using wind and solar at the same time.