

As the pv modules are connected in series, one failing pv module will shut down the entire system. If your solar system is not delivering sufficient power for which it is rated for, the resulting situation is called a low power situation. The factors that could contribute to a low power problem are: Shading This is the most common type of problem and a few, quick, troubleshooting steps will help you find the source of the problem.

This is possibly the most common cause of low voltage. Ensure that there are no trees around and that the solar panels are not blocked by shadow at any time during the day. Keep in mind that a solar systems lasts for more than 25 years and trees grow over time. If shading is not an issue, most likely it will be the higher than normal operating temperature of the solar panels.Ĭonducting a bi-annual survey of the installation site is a good idea. It has been scientifically proven that the voltage drop rises with the rise in temperature. The higher the temperature, the lower will be the power output. Adding more modules in series, and therefore increasing the string voltage, will eliminate this problem. Also, make sure that there’s sufficient air circulation beneath the panels and that this open space is not blocked in any way. If the modules are not overheated, the best bet for you will be to check for a bad connection. You can use a multi-meter to check the voltage levels at various points to find out the point beyond which the problem of low voltage begins. If your system was professionally wired, chances are that you may not experience this problem, but it is worth checking for. It’s uncommon for a solar panel to fail as they’re meant to last 25 years in the field. There are a dozen of problems that may occur, let me mentioned the most common ones: Hotspots However nearly all large pv manufacturers have seen product recalls over the past years, and therefore you mean come across failing solar panels when you troubleshoot a solar system.
#BUS SIMULATOR 18 CONTROLS SERIES#
The series resistance of the solar cells in a panel could have increased over time. BUS SIMULATOR 18 SUN SHADE CONTROL SERIES This may be the result of a hotspot that may occur when micro cracks appear in the cells. The result is a lower voltage in the panel, which will bring the overall voltage of the solar array down. Junction boxĪn increase in resistance is also likely to happen in a junction box that may be exposed to moisture. Nowadays quality junction boxes are IP67 certified, which means they’re completely waterproof. There have been numerous recalls in the pv industry due to bad design junction boxes.

The good thing is that junction boxes can be changed fairly easily. Delaminationĭelamination is another common defect. You should be able to see delamination with your own eyes. When delamination occurs, moisture can enter the electrical circuit of the panel, which may create a current leak or a short. BUS SIMULATOR 18 SUN SHADE CONTROL SERIES.
