Solar Products FAQs
Which way should the solar module face to guarantee optimal functioning of the solar product?
Solar module orientation: The solar module should face south. In Central Europe, the recommended tilt angle is about 30° to 40°. A flatter tilt angle increases energy yield in the summer, a steeper angle increases energy yield in the winter. Make sure your solar module is not shaded at any time of the day or year. Even a small amount of shading results in a dramatic reduction in output. Also watch out for dirt (pollen, leaves, soot, dust...) on the solar module; it has the same negative effect as shading. We recommend regular inspections and cleaning.
How long does it take to fully charge the battery of our solar sets?
Battery charging time varies depending on the product and is based, among other things, on the size of the solar module. Please take note of the relevant information in the operating instructions. Complete charging of the battery typically requires several days at full sunlight. Battery charge time depends on 1. the maximum hours of sunlight available each day; 2. the geographical location (the farther south you're located, the more hours of sunlight are available on average); 3. the seasons, during the winter months charging may take significantly longer because the sun does not hit the solar module at the optimal angle and because there are fewer hours of sunlight; 4. the weather, the module's loading performance decreases in overcast weather because clouds have the same effect as shading.
I bought a solar lamp. The lamp went out during set-up and is not functioning now. Did I buy a defective lamp?
As stated in the instructions, solar lamps must be charged under direct sunlight for several days before they can be put into service. Do not use the lamp until charging is complete. If setting up a solar lamp during the winter (less sunlight due to shorter days and a lower incidence angle of the sun) the stated minimum charging time must be extended accordingly to make sure the battery is fully charged and to guarantee optimal functioning of the solar lamp.
The electric consumer won't work at the inverter.
- The consumer device is unsuitable for use with an inverter with a modified sine wave, such as a coffee pod machine. Please contact the device manufacturer for more information. - The starting current of the consumer is too high, especially in the case of electromotors - The power output of the consumer is too high; please adhere to the max. power specified in the user manual! - Inverters with pure sine waves are recommended for continuous operation. - There is not enough battery power left. The inverter switches off. Charge the battery. - The inverter has switched off due to overheating. Provide sufficient ventilation or cooling.
The charge regulator does not indicate it is ready for operation. What could be the cause?
- Insufficient battery charge, e.g. because 1. the solar module is not aligned properly for the season (see above); 2. charging time is dependent on the season; 3. charging time is dependent on the weather; 4. the solar module is shaded (partially or completely); 5. the solar module is dirty; 6. battery capacity decreases when the temperature falls below freezing; 7. battery capacity decreases with age; 8. the charge regulator is overloaded, for instance because the power output of the connected electric consumers is too high. Check the fuse.