10
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: How does the solar mat work?
A: The solar mat converts sunlight energy into DC (direct current) electric power to charge rechargeable batteries.
The batteries are then used to run your lights, fridge or power an inverter.
Q: What type of batteries can be charged with this solar mat kit?
A: The controller is factory set for AGM batteries, however the controller can also be set to charge GEL, WET and
Calcium by selecting the corresponding ‘DIP’ switch setting on the rear of the controller. Do not charge ‘dry’ cell
rechargeable batteries or ‘dry’ cell non-rechargeable batteries.
Q: Can I bypass the controller to charge my battery?
A: No, the voltage output directly from the solar mat exceeds the optimum voltage recommended to charge the battery.
The controller automatically regulates the voltage output to suit the particular battery size and type being charged.
Q: Will the solar mat overcharge my battery?
A: The controller (regulator) ensures that a steady charge is supplied and will not over charge the battery.
The controller has up to five levels of charging and will automatically evaluate the battery’s condition to establish
whether to; Soft Charge, Bulk Charge, Absorption Charge, Equalization Charge (only for WET or Calcium batteries)
or Float Charge.
Q: Why is it when it is a clear or slightly overcast day and the solar controller amperage output is a lot less than
the rated specification?
A: The solar controller is smart enough to know what the battery actually needs in regard to amperage input. If the battery
is almost fully discharged the solar controller will allow maximum amperage to flow through to the battery. If the battery
is almost or fully charged the solar controller will automatically reduce the amperage input to the required level.
Amperage output from the solar controller is also affected by shade or intermittent cloud cover.
Q; How many Amps do I get out of my 125W Solar Mat and what can I run?
A: A 125W kit can supply between 5 and 6 Amps in optimal conditions on a sunny day or for most of the sunlight hours
of the day. There are many variables, but let’s assume that we can achieve 6 to 7 sunlight hours in a day, anymore
sunlight hours would be considered a bonus.
Provided it is not too cloudy, the solar mat is moved every now and again to best track the sun’s path and the solar
mat is kept out of the shade, it is safe to assume that the solar mat can supply between 5 and 6 Amps per
charging hour.
So, putting this into perspective, let’s assume that the 125W solar mat is charging a 100Ah battery. You wish to run a 40L
Fridge which draws on average 1.5A over a 24hr period, and 2 x LED camp lights which draw 1.0A each when running.
You want to have the fridge running (cycling) 24 hours a day, and the camp lights on for 3 hours each night.
Fridge: 1.5A x 24h = 36Ah
Lights: 1.0A x 3h = 3Ah x 2 lights = 6Ah
Total: 42Ah per day.
Your solar mat can supply:
5.5A x 6h = 33Ah each day.
