A solar generator is a portable power station cable of providing an uninterrupted electrical supply by harnessing the sun’s energy. A solar generator is a great choice for RV trips, adventure camping, and as emergency power backup. A solar generator works by converting energy captured by portable solar panels to run electronic appliances and also storing it into built-in rechargeable batteries for later use. Sometimes solar generators aren’t able to hold a charge for several reasons. This article has covered these charging issues with troubleshooting tips.
Why Solar Generator Is Not Holding a Charge
Batteries are the most critical part of any solar system. They should hold a proper charge to provide steady backup in all situations. Since solar generators work on the same principle as the rooftop solar power system, therefore battery charge-holding problems can occur due to the malfunctioning of any of its primary components. Solutions to these problems are given below:
1. Problems With A Solar Charge Controller
If the solar generator is not holding a proper charge, then its solar charge controller (SCC) may malfunction and should be investigated. Check the following steps to diagnose common faults with SCC and their troubleshooting:
a. Loose or Damaged Wiring
Check the wires from the solar panels to the SCC circuit and from the SCC circuit to the battery. If you find any loose connections, tighten them. However, if the wire is damaged then replace it with another wire of the same gauge.
b. Low Battery Voltage
If the battery’s voltage (VDC) drops below a particular level, the solar charge controller may terminate charging. Refer to the solar generator’s manual for this value. Use a multimeter to check this value by connecting through battery terminals. If found low, then give a boost charge to the battery through an external charger.
c. Fuse Blown
If the wiring is correct and the battery’s voltage is also up to the mark, then inspect the fuses installed. SCC will immediately stop charging the battery if the fuse is broken. Replace the defective fuse with a new one.
d. Defective SCC
If the batteries are still not holding a charge, then it’s probably the solar charge controller (SCC) which is faulty. The output voltage and current of SCC should be matched with the values mentioned in the user manual. Check these values with the help of a multimeter. If incorrect, contact the solar generator’s manufacturer for a repair or replacement.
2. Problems With Battery
If the charge controller is functioning normally, the issue may be caused by the battery itself. The most typical problems, and how to fix them, are listed as follows:
a. Battery End-of-Life
The longer a battery is used, the more quickly its power is depleted. Moreover, charging the battery will take much more time, and it will have problems holding a charge. It is time to replace a new solar battery if your current one is beginning to show indications of end-of-life.
b. Battery Capacity
If the battery capacity is not large enough, the solar generator will not be able to hold a charge for a very long time. If the battery size is too small, the internal circuits won’t be able to withstand the running load, which will make charging more difficult.
c. Damaged Battery
Use multimeter readings to determine the condition of the battery regularly. When the readout is 0, this indicates that the battery has become dead. Always keep a close eye on its overall condition, and don’t wait until the battery is completely dead before replacing it.
d. Left Idle for Longer Durations
Batteries that have been left discharged for extended periods progressively lose their capacity. Because of this, it is more difficult to recharge them. Even if it successfully charges, the solar generator will not be able to hold the charge. If trying to recharge the battery does not work, you will need to purchase a new one.
3. Problems With A Solar Panel
Sometimes, the issue has nothing to do with the battery or charge controller, but rather with the solar panel. Note that everything begins with the solar panels turning the sun’s energy into electricity, so if there is a problem, the solar generator will get charge retaining issues.
a. Shading Problem
Solar panels work at the highest efficiency when they receive maximum sunlight. However, if some object hinders the pathway of sunlight like trees or highrise buildings, and causes shading issues then they may not be able to deliver desired current for maintaining a charge in batteries. Before starting a solar generator, make sure that you are placing its solar panels in a place where there is no tree or building and solar panels receive direct sunlight.
b. Damaged or Faulty Panels
Examine the solar panel’s surface for any evidence of damage, such as cracks, snail tracks, or hot spots. These are typical issues that may arise within the solar panels and cause a decrease in energy production. These issues need to be addressed to prevent more complications. In most cases, solar panel replacement is the only solution.
Conclusion
A solar generator is a portable power-generating device that is capable of providing electricity backup in a variety of circumstances. From RV camping to adventure trips, a solar generator will supply a steady power supply without any interruption. However, sometimes solar-powered generators don’t hold a charge due to multiple reasons. This article has covered all the charge-holding problems with troubleshooting techniques that can be faced by any solar generator user. Nevertheless, always read the user manual supplied by the manufacturer before doing any troubleshooting tasks. If the problem doesn’t resolve, then contact your solar service provider for any technical assistance.
