Acopower HY-PWM20AW User Manual

The Acopower HY-PWM20AW is a 20-Amp PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) solar charge controller designed for 12V/24V auto-select systems. It features advanced battery management, LCD display, multiple protection functions (overcharge, over-discharge, short circuit, reverse polarity), USB output, and support for various battery types (Gel, Sealed, Flooded). Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Operation Modes 8. Protection Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: PWM charge controller, LCD display, Terminal connections, USB output port, Mounting bracket.

FeatureDescription
LCD DisplayShows battery voltage, charging current, load status, and error codes
PWM ChargingEfficient battery charging with 3-stage process (Bulk, Absorption, Float)
Battery Type SelectSupports Gel, Sealed, and Flooded lead-acid batteries
USB Output5V/2A USB port for charging mobile devices
Load ControlProgrammable load timing and manual on/off control
Temperature SensorOptional temperature compensation for accurate charging
Protection FunctionsOvercharge, over-discharge, short circuit, reverse polarity protection
Auto Voltage DetectAutomatically detects 12V or 24V battery systems
Mounting OptionsWall mount or DIN rail installation
Waterproof DesignIP65 rated for outdoor use

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose suitable mounting location.

  1. Mount controller: Use provided screws to mount on wall or DIN rail in well-ventilated area.
  2. Connect battery: Connect battery terminals FIRST (positive to BAT+, negative to BAT-).
  3. Connect solar panel: Connect PV panel wires (positive to PV+, negative to PV-).
  4. Connect load: Connect DC load to LOAD terminals if needed.
  5. Connect temperature sensor: Optional connection for temperature compensation.

WARNING! Always connect battery first, then solar panel. Disconnect in reverse order. Ensure proper polarity to avoid damage.

First-Time Setup

Power on controller; follow display prompts.

  1. Check battery voltage: Display shows battery voltage (12V or 24V auto-detected).
  2. Set battery type: Press SET button to select battery type (Gel/Sealed/Flooded).
  3. Set load control: Configure load timing (1-15 hours) or manual mode.
  4. Set charging parameters: Adjust float and equalization voltages if needed.
  5. Connect devices: Connect USB devices to USB port.

CAUTION! Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Keep away from flammable materials.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access settings via front panel buttons. LCD Display shows: Battery voltage, Charging current, Load status, Error codes.

Buttons: SET (enter settings), UP/DOWN (adjust values), LOAD (manual load control).

Settings Menu: Battery type selection, Load timing (1-15 hours), Equalization voltage, Float voltage, Temperature compensation. Display modes: Real-time monitoring, Historical data (optional), Error history.

Connecting Devices

Battery: BAT+ and BAT- terminals. Solar Panel: PV+ and PV- terminals. Load: LOAD+ and LOAD- terminals.

  1. Turn off all power sources before connecting.
  2. Use proper wire gauge (minimum 10 AWG for 20A).
  3. Connect battery first, then solar panel, then load.
  4. Check polarity before making connections.

Tip: Use crimp connectors for secure connections. Apply anti-corrosion spray for outdoor installations.

Operation Modes

Supports multiple charging and load control modes.

  1. Charging modes: Bulk (constant current), Absorption (constant voltage), Float (maintenance).
  2. Load control: Timer mode (1-15 hours), Manual mode, Light control mode.
  3. Equalization: Periodic equalization charging for flooded batteries.
  4. Temperature compensation: Adjusts charging voltage based on battery temperature.
  5. USB charging: Connect USB devices directly to controller.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum PV input power. Monitor battery temperature during charging.

Protection Features

Overcharge Protection: Stops charging when battery reaches full voltage. Over-discharge Protection: Disconnects load when battery voltage too low. Short Circuit Protection: Automatic shutdown and reset. Reverse Polarity Protection: Protects against wrong connections. Over-temperature Protection: Reduces charging current if controller overheats.

Care & Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning recommended.

  1. Monthly: Check all connections for tightness and corrosion.
  2. Quarterly: Clean terminals with electrical contact cleaner.
  3. Annually: Check mounting hardware and enclosure seals.
  4. As needed: Update settings based on battery condition.

CAUTION! Disconnect all power sources before maintenance. Do not use water or conductive cleaners.

Regulatory Information

CE Certified: Complies with European safety standards. RoHS Compliant: Free of hazardous substances. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Copyright © 2023 Acopower; all rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.acopower.com or contact [email protected]. Warranty: 2-year limited warranty from date of purchase.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No displayNo battery powerCheck battery connections; verify battery voltage > 10V
Not chargingPV connections/weatherCheck PV connections; ensure sunlight available; verify PV voltage > battery voltage
Overload errorLoad too highReduce load current below 20A; check for short circuits
Reverse polarityWrong connectionsDisconnect all wires; reconnect with correct polarity
Battery over-dischargeLow battery voltageCharge battery; check for excessive load consumption
High temperaturePoor ventilationImprove airflow; reduce charging current if needed

Reset: Disconnect battery and solar panel for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

Service: [email protected]; www.acopower.com; +1-800-123-4567

Acopower HY-PWM20AW User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025