Coleman 36 WATT FOLDING SOLAR PANEL User Manual

The Coleman 36 Watt Folding Solar Panel is a portable power solution designed for outdoor use, featuring a 36W output, integrated USB and DC outputs, a durable folding design with a carrying handle, built-in kickstand, and compatibility with various 12V devices and USB-powered electronics. It includes overcharge protection, short-circuit protection, and reverse polarity protection. 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. Charging Devices 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 36W monocrystalline solar panel, Folding design with carrying handle, Built-in kickstand, USB output ports, DC output port, LED power indicator, Protective carrying case.

Feature	Description
Solar Panel Output	36 Watts maximum power output
USB Output Ports	For charging phones, tablets, and other USB devices
DC Output Port	For charging 12V batteries and powering 12V devices
Folding Design	Compact foldable design for easy transport and storage
Carrying Handle	Integrated handle for portability
Built-in Kickstand	Adjustable stand for optimal sun angle positioning
LED Power Indicator	Shows charging status and power output
Protective Carrying Case	Durable case for storage and transport
Overcharge Protection	Prevents battery damage from overcharging
Weather Resistance	Designed for outdoor use with weather-resistant materials

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure all components are present and undamaged.

Unfold the solar panel: Release latches and extend panels fully.
Position for sunlight: Place on stable, flat surface facing direct sunlight.
Adjust kickstand: Set desired angle for optimal sun exposure.
Connect devices: Use appropriate cables for USB or DC output.

WARNING! Do not expose to extreme temperatures or submerge in water. Keep away from flammable materials.

First-Time Setup

Unfold panel and position in direct sunlight before first use.

Check LED indicator: Ensure panel is receiving sunlight (LED should illuminate).
Connect device: Plug USB or DC cable into appropriate port on panel.
Monitor charging: Verify device indicates charging status.
Optimize position: Adjust panel angle throughout day for maximum sun exposure.

CAUTION! Ensure panel is stable and won't tip over in wind. Do not look directly at reflective surfaces.

Specifications

Maximum Power: 36 Watts.
Cell Type: Monocrystalline silicon.
USB Output: 5V/2.4A per port (shared max 3A).
DC Output: 12V/3A maximum.
Open Circuit Voltage: 21V.
Short Circuit Current: 2.14A.
Dimensions (Open): Approximately 24 x 17 inches.
Dimensions (Folded): Approximately 12 x 17 inches.
Weight: Approximately 8 lbs.
Operating Temperature: -4°F to 140°F (-20°C to 60°C).
Weather Rating: Weather-resistant (not waterproof).

Controls and Settings

Simple operation with minimal controls. LED Indicator: Shows power status (green = charging, red = fault/no power).

Positioning: Adjust kickstand for optimal angle (typically 30-45 degrees relative to sun). Orientation: Face true south in Northern Hemisphere, true north in Southern Hemisphere.

No user-adjustable voltage or current settings - output is automatically regulated.

Connecting Devices

USB Devices: Phones, tablets, power banks, lights. DC Devices: 12V batteries, portable refrigerators, air pumps.

Ensure panel is in sunlight and LED indicator is green.
Connect device using appropriate cable (USB or DC with correct polarity).
Verify device begins charging or operating.
For 12V battery charging: Connect red to positive, black to negative.

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best efficiency. Check device compatibility before connecting.

Charging Devices

Supports simultaneous charging of multiple USB devices and one DC device.

Position panel: Place in direct, unobstructed sunlight.
Connect devices: Plug in USB or DC cables.
Monitor: Check LED indicator remains green during charging.
Disconnect: Unplug devices when charged or when sunlight diminishes.
Fold for storage: Close panels and secure latches.

WARNING! Do not exceed maximum output ratings. Disconnect during thunderstorms. Keep cables away from sharp edges.

Safety Features

Overcharge Protection: Automatically reduces/ stops charging when battery is full. Short-Circuit Protection: Cuts output during short circuits. Reverse Polarity Protection: Prevents damage from incorrect DC connections. Weather Resistance: Designed for outdoor use with durable materials.

Care & Cleaning

Disconnect all devices before cleaning. Use soft, damp cloth to clean panel surface. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.

CAUTION! Do not spray water directly on ports or electronics. Store in dry place when not in use. Avoid scratching panel surface.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE certified for European market. RoHS compliant (Restriction of Hazardous Substances). Copyright © 2025 Coleman; trademarks of The Coleman Company, Inc. For support, visit www.coleman.com or contact 1-800-835-3278.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power output	Insufficient sunlight, dirty panel	Move to direct sunlight, clean panel surface, check LED indicator
Device not charging	Faulty cable, incompatible device	Try different cable, check device compatibility, test with another device
LED indicator red	Short circuit, overload	Disconnect all devices, wait 30 seconds, reconnect one device at a time
Low charging speed	Cloudy conditions, panel angle	Reposition for better sun exposure, adjust angle throughout day
DC output not working	Reverse polarity, blown fuse	Check connection polarity, inspect fuse if accessible

Reset: Disconnect all devices, fold and unfold panel, reposition in sunlight.

Service: 1-800-835-3278; www.coleman.com