Current Reading: 0 A
Time of Day: Daytime, clear sunny skies
Possible Cause:
Current is being limited below 1 Amp as per normal operation or there is a poor connection between the solar panel and the controller.
Remedy:
Check all connections from the controller to the panel including checking for correct wire polarity. Check that all connections are clean, tight, and secure. Continue with the solutions below for additional help on low current readings.
Further Steps (if required):
With the solar panel in sunlight, check the voltage at the controller solar panel terminals with a voltmeter.
If there is no reading at the controller solar panel terminals, the problem is somewhere in the wiring from the solar panel to the controller.
Current Reading: Less than expected
Time of Day: Daytime, clear sunny skies
Possible Causes:
1. Incorrect wiring connections.
2. Modules look dirty, overhead object is shading modules or it is an overcast day in which a shadow cannot be cast.
3. Dirty or shaded module or lack of sun.
Remedy:
1. Reconnect in correct configuration. Tighten all connections. Check wire to ensure no componet has become loose or frayed.
2 Clean modules, clear obstruction or wait for conditions to clear.
Avoid any shading no matter how small. An object as small as a broomstick held across the solar module may cause the power output to be significantly reduced. Overcast days may also cut the power output of the module.
Further Steps (if required):
Disconnect one or both panel wires from the controller. Take a voltage reading between the positive and negative panel wire. A single 12 volt module should have an open circuit voltage between 17 and 23 VDC. If you have more than one solar module, you will need to conduct this test between the positive and negative terminals of each module junction box with either the positive or the negative wires disconnected from the terminal.