Factory solar - how to properly disconnect battery? - Page 2

Shmipshmop · 03-01-2022, 07:38 PM

Hi Tom, I just think it is interesting that the panels are already under a cover and under snow! And it’s potentially still generating power? If that is indeed what the hum is about. I’ll have to think about maybe next winter just leaving it plugged in with a random battery, if it’s such a big deal….dunno

TomC_AZ · 03-01-2022, 07:51 PM

It is possible, depending how deep the snow is. I know they still work under a nice thick layer of fine dirt from Sedona. If any light gets to it, it might try and generate power if it thinks that a battery is still there, I don't know exactly how long it will behave this way however. I do know it will do it for at least a day. Thats when I used a thick blanket. But I would think that night time would also cut it off... Are there any errors on the screen or does it still show amps etc?

There really should be some form of a switch but there isn't from the factory.

Shmipshmop · 03-02-2022, 11:06 AM

Hi Tom, as far as the display is concerned, when I looked last, it was just a blank screen but illuminated, if that makes sense. There was no other information, I assume because there is no battery connected. On another note, when I reconnect the battery, do you know how bad the shock may be from the solar (assuming i have it covered as well as possible)?

TomC_AZ · 03-02-2022, 11:37 AM

There should not be any large spark/shock, no more than connecting a car battery to a car. Especially with the panel covered and not producing anything. On mine in stock form, the spark is not bad even with the panel uncovered etc.. Connect the positive first then the neg cable.

Jayco224BHW · 07-07-2023, 01:30 AM

Was it fried? Curious to know how the story ends.

TaftCoach · 07-07-2023, 05:02 AM

There have been a few threads regarding the 12v refrigerators and wiring that isn't what owners expect. In a couple cases the install was on its own line with an in line fuse. Seems like the industry is trying to figure this out.

Solar has been around a lot longer as an aftermarket, hobbyist install. IIRC we even had a special solar forum here before it was really mainstream. It's just been the last few years that dealers are involved.

Shmipshmop · 07-09-2023, 08:22 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jayco224BHW

Was it fried? Curious to know how the story ends.

No, it was not fried. Just reconnected the battery (after being on a tender over the winter) and it seems to be working fine. I did a test run on battery power for several days with some of the other power draws, and it seems to be charging the batteries just fine.

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