I recently came across what appeared to be an exceptional
deal on Ebay for a 10 watt solar panel with a diode to prevent reverse
charging. Measuring 310 millimetres by 368 millimetres the panel will fit on
top of ‘Sandpiper’s’ sliding hatch. Needless to say, at only £25.95, including
delivery, I thought it was a bargain. I parted with my money and the panel
arrived this morning.
Instead of testing the device right away, I cut the lawns
while the sun shone. After lunch I unpacked the parcel, checked the contents
and connected the crocodile clips to ‘Sandpiper’s’ battery. Almost immediately,
I knew something was wrong, because the connector lead rapidly heated. Swiftly I
disconnected the clips to prevent a serious incident happening. I had correctly
attached the clips to the appropriate battery terminals – red to positive, and
black to negative. What was wrong? I had
my suspicion that the manufacturer incorrectly wired the junction box.
I contacted the seller and asked his advice. He suggested
that I should reconnect the clips, but attach the negative to the positive
terminal and visa versa. On doing so I checked the connection lead; thankfully
it remained cool. I found there was no discernable difference in the voltage of
the battery when the solar panel was connected to the battery. I independently
tested the output of the solar panel by using my voltmeter. I felt confident
that the charger was doing its work.
Over the next day or so I shall measure the battery’s
voltage to ascertain if the solar panel is OK. Currently the
voltmeter indicates a satisfactory 12 volts. Four days ago, after I charged the
battery by a mains charger, the voltmeter registered 12.5 volts. Somehow the battery has
lost half a volt.
Note
The Ebay seller subsequently sent me an email to say that if
things don’t work out, he will send me another solar charger.
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