aandncaravan
Free Member
I know this is an old thread, but the reply is relevant to all with Solar power in avoiding regulator failure.
Something mentioned at the start of this post is that the Solar Regulator failed after new batteries were fitted.
On Friday we had our third recent failure of a Solar Regulator following a battery change.
In each case, we think, because the Solar Panel was not isolated from the Regulator first.
If the battery clamps are removed while the Solar regulator is charging the batteries, the power suddenly has no where to go so may build up in the regulator, burning it out.
Therefore, we suggest that the fuse between the Solar Panel (should be one installed up near the roof for electrical protection where the cables from the Solar Panel enter the van) is removed prior to any maintenance work. If no fuse is fitted at this point where the cables enter, suggest you get one fitted before doing any work as this is vital for electrical safety.
Isolating the Panel so it isn't putting out any voltage into the regulator will protect the regulator from overload when the battery clamps are removed.
Do not remove the fuse that will be between the Regulator and the battery/Power Controller until the Solar Panel is first isolated.
This won't apply to all Solar Regulators as some have protection built in, but best to play safe.
Make sure anyone who works on the vehicle knows you have Solar power and where to find the Panel isolation fuse.
.
Something mentioned at the start of this post is that the Solar Regulator failed after new batteries were fitted.
On Friday we had our third recent failure of a Solar Regulator following a battery change.
In each case, we think, because the Solar Panel was not isolated from the Regulator first.
If the battery clamps are removed while the Solar regulator is charging the batteries, the power suddenly has no where to go so may build up in the regulator, burning it out.
Therefore, we suggest that the fuse between the Solar Panel (should be one installed up near the roof for electrical protection where the cables from the Solar Panel enter the van) is removed prior to any maintenance work. If no fuse is fitted at this point where the cables enter, suggest you get one fitted before doing any work as this is vital for electrical safety.
Isolating the Panel so it isn't putting out any voltage into the regulator will protect the regulator from overload when the battery clamps are removed.
Do not remove the fuse that will be between the Regulator and the battery/Power Controller until the Solar Panel is first isolated.
This won't apply to all Solar Regulators as some have protection built in, but best to play safe.
Make sure anyone who works on the vehicle knows you have Solar power and where to find the Panel isolation fuse.
.