EpRec Solar Charge Controller 10A 12V/24V User Manual

1. Product Overview

The EpRec 10A Solar Charge Controller is designed for 12V/24V solar panel systems, featuring an industrial-grade microcontroller for efficient charge and discharge management. It includes an intuitive LCD display for monitoring and parameter configuration, making it suitable for various applications.

This controller supports Sealed, Gel, and Flooded lead-acid batteries and incorporates multiple electrical protections to ensure system safety and longevity.

Figure 1: EpRec Solar Charge Controller (packaging may vary)

2. Key Features

• Automatic Voltage Recognition: Automatically detects 12V or 24V battery systems.
• PWM Charging: Utilizes 4-stage PWM charge management (Bulk, ABS, Float) for optimal battery charging.
• LCD Display: Large LCD screen displays system status and parameters.
• Dual USB Ports: Provides 5V/3A output for charging external devices.
• Comprehensive Protections: Built-in short-circuit, open-circuit, reverse connection, and over-load protection.
• Reverse Current Protection: Dual MOSFET design for low heat production.
• Adjustable Parameters: All charging and discharging parameters are user-adjustable.

3. Safety Instructions

• Ensure proper ventilation around the controller to prevent overheating.
• Avoid direct sunlight exposure or damp environments for installation.
• Connect the battery first, then the solar panel, and finally the load. Disconnect in the reverse order.
• Use appropriate wire gauges for connections to prevent voltage drop and overheating.
• This controller is designed for lead-acid batteries (Sealed, Gel, Flooded). Do not use with other battery types.
• Keep children away from the solar power system.

4. Setup and Connection

Follow these steps carefully to connect your solar charge controller:

1. Connect the Battery: Connect the battery to the charge regulator's battery terminals (plus and minus). Ensure correct polarity. The controller will automatically detect the battery voltage (12V or 24V).
2. Connect the Solar Panel: Connect the photovoltaic module (solar panel) to the regulator's solar panel terminals (plus and minus). Ensure correct polarity.
3. Connect the Load: Connect the DC load (consumer) to the charge regulator's load terminals (plus and minus). Ensure correct polarity.

Important: Always connect the battery first, then the solar panel, and finally the load. Disconnect in the reverse order (load, then solar panel, then battery) when deinstalling or performing maintenance. Incorrect connection order can lead to identification errors or damage to the controller.

Figure 2: Connection Diagram

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. LCD Display and Buttons

The controller features an LCD display and three buttons for operation:

• MENU Button: Short press to switch between different display interfaces. Long press to enter or exit parameter setting mode.
• UP Button: Press to increase a value or navigate up in menus.
• DOWN Button: Press to decrease a value or navigate down in menus.

Figure 3: LCD Display and Button Functions

5.2. Parameter Settings

To browse and set parameters:

1. Browse Interfaces: Short press the MENU button to cycle through the main display, float voltage, discharge reconnect voltage, discharge stop voltage, work mode, and battery type.
2. Enter Setting Mode: When viewing a parameter (e.g., Float voltage, Discharge stop, etc.), long press the MENU button until the displayed value starts flashing.
3. Adjust Value: Use the UP and DOWN buttons to change the parameter value.
4. Save and Exit: Long press the MENU button again to save the new setting and exit the setting mode. If you do not long press to save, the changes may not be applied.

Figure 4: Parameter Setting Flowchart

6. Maintenance

To ensure optimal performance and longevity of your EpRec Solar Charge Controller, consider the following maintenance tips:

• Regular Inspection: Periodically check all connections for tightness and corrosion. Loose connections can cause resistance and heat.
• Cleanliness: Keep the controller clean and free from dust and debris. Use a dry cloth for cleaning.
• Environmental Conditions: Ensure the controller is installed in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and moisture, to facilitate proper heat dissipation.
• Battery Health: Monitor your battery's health. A failing battery can affect the controller's performance.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your solar charge controller, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

• Controller Not Powering On / Blank Display:
  • Check battery connections. Ensure the battery is connected first and has sufficient voltage (above 8V for 12V systems).
  • Verify battery polarity.
  • Ensure the battery voltage is not too low, as the controller may power off to protect the battery.
• Battery Not Charging:
  • Check solar panel connections and polarity.
  • Ensure sufficient sunlight is reaching the solar panel.
  • Verify that the solar panel voltage is within the controller's operating range (Max Voc: 24V for 12V battery, 48V for 24V battery).
  • Check for any open-circuit protection activation.
• Load Not Working:
  • Check load connections and polarity.
  • Ensure the battery has sufficient charge. The controller will stop discharge if battery voltage drops below the discharge stop voltage (default 10.7V).
  • Check for over-load or short-circuit protection activation. Reduce load or check for shorts.
  • Verify the load work mode settings.
• Incorrect Voltage Readings:
  • Ensure all connections are secure and free from corrosion.
  • Recalibrate by disconnecting and reconnecting the battery (always battery first).

If problems persist after following these steps, please contact customer support.

8. Specifications

9. Warranty and Support

EpRec provides a 12-month warranty for quality-related issues from the date of purchase. If you have any questions or require assistance with your solar charge controller, please contact our customer support team. We aim to provide a response within 24 hours.

Please have your product model (10A) and purchase information ready when contacting support.