15 WATT SOLAR 12 VOLT BATTERY CHARGER KIT

Product Overview

This manual provides instructions for the Sunforce 15 Watt Solar 12 Volt Battery Charger Kit, which includes a 15 Watt Solar Power Panel and a 7 Amp Charge Controller. It is designed for charging 12V batteries commonly found in cars, boats, RVs, motorcycles, and personal watercraft (PWC's).

Please read this manual thoroughly BEFORE and DURING the use of this product.

Specifications and Included Items

Specifications:

• Solar Panel Power Rating: Up to 15 Watts
• Solar Panel Current: 1 Amp @ 15 Volts
• Charge Controller Type: 7 Amp

Included Items:

• 1 x 7 Amp Charge Controller
• 1 x 12 Volt DC Plug
• 1 x Alligator Clamps
• 1 x 11.5ft Wire
• 1 x Solar Panel
• 4 x Stainless Steel Mounting Screws

Installation

Solar Panel Installation

Securely place the solar panel in direct sunlight. For permanent installation, use the four included stainless steel mounting screws. To allow for heat dissipation, use a heat-resistant spacer, such as the included rubber washers, between the panel and the mounting surface.

7 Amp Charge Controller Installation

Connect to Battery:

Attach the Battery Charge Controller's positive (+) wire to the positive (+) battery terminal. Then, connect the Battery Charge Controller's negative (-) wire to the negative (-) battery terminal.

WARNING: The alligator clips MUST be connected to the battery in the aforementioned order. Incorrect connections may cause sparking or explosion.

Connect to Solar Panel:

Strip the solar panel wires. Connect the positive (+) wire from the solar panel to the positive (+) terminal of the charge controller. Connect the negative (-) wire from the solar panel to the negative (-) terminal of the charge controller. Ensure all connections are secure.

Operation

The charge controller features LED indicators:

• Green LED: Indicates a full-charged battery. When the battery reaches 14.2 Volts, the Solar Charge Controller will cut out voltage to prevent overcharging.
• Yellow Light: Indicates a battery that is currently being charged. When the battery reaches 13 Volts, the Battery Charge Controller will cut-in and begin charging.

NOTE: This solar panel has a built-in blocking diode that protects the battery from reverse discharge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What type of batteries does this panel charge?

It can charge all rechargeable 12V batteries, such as those used in Cars, Boats, RV's, Motorcycles, and PWC's.

Can I use this solar panel outdoors?

Yes, this solar panel is weatherproof. The weatherproofing includes UV protection and protects against weather effects ranging from -35°F to 175°F (-37°C to 79°C).

How long does it take to charge a battery?

Under ideal conditions, this solar panel can generate approximately 1 Amp per hour. For example, over 7 hours of ideal sunlight per day for 7 days, the panel can generate a total of 735 Watts of power (15 Watts x 7 hours x 7 days). To decrease overall charging time, multiple panels can be connected together. Adding a second panel of the same output will double the power output and halve the charge time.

Advanced Usage and Capabilities

How can I run AC appliances with my Solar Power Panel?

You can connect the battery to a power inverter (sold separately) that converts DC power to AC power, allowing you to run your AC appliances from the inverter.

Can I overcharge my battery?

No, if a Sunforce 7 Amp Solar Charge Controller is used, it will prevent the battery from overcharging.

Can I extend the wire from my solar panel to the charge controller?

Yes, the 11.5ft wire can be extended to a maximum length of 25 feet using 16 gauge wire without significant loss of power or voltage. Ensure proper connections.

How do I know if the panel is working?

Use a voltmeter to measure the panel's voltage. The reading should be between 16 and 25 Volts in full sun.

Can I start/drive my vehicle while the unit is connected to the battery?

No, for safety reasons, please ensure the solar panel is not in use while you are operating your vehicle.

How many panels can I connect to my 7 Amp Solar Charge Controller?

You can connect up to 105 Watts of Solar Power to the 7 Amp Solar Charge Controller. Panels should be connected in parallel: positive to positive, and negative to negative.

When will the Charged Indication light (green) light up?

The charged indication green light will illuminate when the battery voltage reaches 14.2 Volts. The Solar Charge Controller (SCC) will then prevent the solar panels from overcharging the battery. It is normal for the SCC LED to cycle on and off as the battery voltage cuts in and out.

Additional Notes:

• It is normal for both indicator lights to flicker on and off during normal operation.
• The Battery Charge Controller should be placed within 5 feet of the battery in a dry, well-ventilated area.
• This Battery Charge Controller can support up to 105 Watts of solar input and up to 7 Amps of array current.
• All connections should be made in parallel to ensure a 12 Volt system (positive to positive and negative to negative).

Troubleshooting

Problem: My panel is not functioning.

• Ensure the battery is operational.
• Ensure that the wire distance is not longer than 25 feet and all connections are secure.

General Testing Protocol

Always test outdoors under optimal sunlight.

Test Solar Panel for Voltage:

Connect a voltmeter to the solar panel separately from the charge controller. Observe the Open Voltage, which can range from 16 Volts to 24 Volts.

Test Connection to Charge Controller for Voltage:

Reconnect the solar panel and connect it to the charge controller as per instructions. Measure the Open Circuit Voltage at the battery side of the charge controller. The open circuit voltage should read 5-10% lower than without the charge controller. This measurement will typically be between 15 Volts and 23.5 Volts.

Connect Charge Controller to Battery:

First, disconnect the solar panels. Connect the charge controller to the battery. Always connect the charge controller to the battery first and remove it last. Observe polarity: connect positive to positive and negative to negative.

Reconnect Solar Panels to Charge Controller:

• If battery voltage is 14.2 Volts or higher, the GREEN light should be on.
• If battery voltage is between 13 Volts and 14.2 Volts, the YELLOW LED should be on.
• If battery voltage is 13 Volts or lower, the YELLOW LED should be on.

If all testing results are within the above indicated ranges, the solar system is in acceptable condition. If voltage readings indicate lower ranges, repeat the above connections and retest. It is common to encounter 12V battery issues such as dead cells or non-rechargeable battery problems.

Warranty Information

The 12 Volt Solar Battery Charger is covered by a five-year limited warranty. Sunforce Products Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. Power output is warranted for five years from the date of purchase.

The 7 Amp Solar Charge Controller is also covered by a five-year limited warranty. Sunforce Products Inc. warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase.

To obtain warranty service, please contact Sunforce Products for further instructions. You can reach them at 1-888-478-6435 or via email at info@sunforceproducts.com. Proof of purchase, including the date, and an explanation of the complaint are required for warranty service.

Contact Information