How To Test A 12v Solar Panel

You can change the setting later if required.

How to test a 12v solar panel.

This article describes how to test a small 12 v solar power system. If the solar panel is used the reading might be lower. Disconnect the alligator clips only after you have switched off the multimeter. This is quite usual.

Touch the multi meter s red positive lead to your solar panel s positive wire. To ensure that you don t blow your device s fuse set the maximum amperage sensitivity to well above your expected reading. The multimeter will now show the open circuit voltage of the solar panel. Connect the positive lead of the multimeter to the positive wire or terminal of the solar panel and the negative lead of the multimeter to the negative wire or terminal of the solar panel.

Angle the solar panel towards the sun. As most solar panels are 12 volts the solar panel test methods are basically the same. Measure the current by connecting the ve lead on the voltmeter to the ve on the panel and the ve from the voltmeter to the ve on the panel. This is the most common volts rated for solar panels therefore the testing methods will be typically similar.

You will want to ensure that you place the positive to positive and negative to negative when attaching your multimeter to the connection on the back of your solar panel. We ll be using a multi meter which is the tool most people would own or have access to through their local electrical shop. The system i tested includes two 120 w solar panels in parallel a pulse width modulation pwm charge controller and 225 ah wet deep cycle battery. To test a 12v panel meters should always be set to the dc voltage area which usually identified by the symbol below.

You can always check if your solar panels are healthy as well as getting more detailed information about the status of your battery. Ensure that the multimeter is set at 10a at least to start with. I have a dual battery system in my vehicle and solar panels for camping. Results typical 12v nominal panel.

Testing the 12 volt solar panel. Set the meter to above 200 vcd to ensure you get the most accurate reading possible.