Does this sound right ?

[Apache]

Today we have installed an outside waterproof mains socket so we can keep the batteries topped up. When I plugged it in to check it was working I decided amongst other things to look and see how much the solar panel is putting in to the batteries. The reading was varying between 0.0 amps and 0.9amps , presumably with the clouds going over the sun. Then I turned off the mains hook up as the batteries at present are ok , and out of curiosity had another look at the solar charge. It’s now reading a little higher - 0.8 to 1.1 amps . Is this a normal sounding behaviour, does the solar system reduce the amount it contributes when the mains charger is on ?

 

[DerryW]

Good question. I don't know the answer but look forward to reading others response who will know. it's strange being a lovely sunny day today I was expecting a higher impute from the solar panel than 0.8amps. I too are connected to EHU on the drive.

 

[tonka]

On an autotrail with the Sargent unit, if the display flicks between a reading and zero that usually indicates the battery is fully charged. If you want to do a test on the solar during the day, ensure your EHU is not connected. Watch the solar charge ampage then turn on everything 12v you can, things like water pump and air blower use the most it all is good then solar amps should increase if it's a fine day.

Ehu will most times override the solar when connected as the mains charger will give a better charge.

 

[Taran_Las]

Good question. I don't know the answer but look forward to reading others response who will know. it's strange being a lovely sunny day today I was expecting a higher impute from the solar panel than 0.8amps. I too are connected to EHU on the drive.

Derry, if the batteries are fully changed solar input will be low. Applying a load (switch some lights on) and you should see a larger solar input amount.

 

[Googlebot]

Yes, if the batteries are full then the charge from the solar will be low. On mine it drops to nothing when on hook up after a few hours.

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[Apache]

That’s all very interesting. Thanks funsters