help wanted PV panel fitting. Forums

GBrapido

Hi all, hope someone can help.

My Rapido has some wiring and brackets for solar panels fitted.

it looks as if the the wiring goes to the leisure battery.

there is a couple of connectors left hanging.

i can't find a regulator.

is it possible that i don't need a regulator and it's all wired in and i just need to connect a solar panel, or has the previous owner taken the regulator along with the solar panel.

how can i check what i need to install a PV panel.

regards

Geoff B.

gaspode · Moderator

Hi GBrapido

Firstly, before someone asks - PV=Photovoltaic. Cool

You do need a charge controller. Although the panel will work without one, the battery will overcharge and the electrolite will "boil off" over a period of time. Also the controller will contain a diode to prevent your battery discharging through the panel overnight. If it's a relatively small panel you can get a very cheap controller from Maplin that will cope with up to five amps output. More expensive controllers will usually give you a voltage and charge current reading too. The controller should be installed as near to the battery as possible.

Other than that there are no other requirements (other than an in-line fuse), simple job to install really.