Some most common problems that can occur with solar panel charge controllers include: One of the most common problems with flexible solar panels is that sometimes the battery they’re connected to can run low. This mostly happens when the panel is used for a long time without any sunlight exposure.
Faulty Solar Panels: Sometimes, the issue lies with the panels themselves. A quick check of the voltage in full sunlight helps me determine if they’re generating power properly. Broken Charge Controllers: These devices regulate the flow of electricity from the panel to the battery. If they malfunction, the battery won’t charge.
One of the main reasons solar panel charge controllers fail is that they overheat. To prevent this, make sure the charge controller is installed in a cool, dry location. Avoid locations that are exposed to direct sunlight or near heat-generating appliances. This will help prolong the life of your charge controller.
The battery voltage drops and can't power the load anymore. Therefore, the controller switches off automatically to prevent damage. If your solar panel charge controller keeps shutting off even though there is plenty of sunlight, check the battery voltage. It should be between 12 and 13 volts. If it's lower, then you’ve found the problem.
Overcharging problems in solar charge controllers can substantially impact battery life and pose potential safety hazards. When a controller fails to regulate the charging current properly, it can lead to excessive voltage being delivered to the battery, causing overcharging.
A simple cleaning could do the trick. Check your battery voltage and rectify if it’s not in line with your solar charge controller’s specs. Your solar charge controller may need recalibration, especially when upgrading your battery or adding more solar panels. Sometimes, all your solar charge controller needs is a complete reset.