Eco-Worthy 400W Solar panel kit Manual

The Eco-Worthy 400W Solar panel kit is a complete solar power solution designed for off-grid applications such as RVs, cabins, boats, and small backup systems. It includes 400W of monocrystalline solar panels, a 40A MPPT charge controller, mounting brackets, cables, and connectors. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: 400W Monocrystalline Solar Panels, 40A MPPT Charge Controller, Mounting Brackets, MC4 Connectors, Cables.

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose a location with maximum sunlight exposure.

1. Mount solar panels: Use brackets to secure panels to roof or ground mount. Ensure proper angle (15-45 degrees).
2. Connect panels in series/parallel: Use MC4 connectors to link panels according to system voltage.
3. Connect to charge controller: Connect panel cables to controller's PV input terminals.
4. Connect battery: Connect battery cables to controller's battery terminals (observe polarity).
5. Connect load: Connect DC load to controller's load terminals if needed.
6. Ground the system: Install proper grounding for safety and lightning protection.

WARNING! Install during daylight but disconnect panels during wiring to avoid electric shock. Wear protective gear.

First-Time Setup

After installation, configure the charge controller for your battery type.

1. Power on: Ensure battery is connected first, then solar panels.
2. Set battery type: Press SET button on controller to select battery type (Sealed, Gel, Flooded, Li).
3. Set charging parameters: Adjust bulk/float voltages if necessary (default usually optimal).
4. Check connections: Verify all connections are tight and corrosion-free.
5. Monitor output: Use LCD display to confirm solar charging is active.

CAUTION! Never connect solar panels to controller before battery. Reverse polarity can damage equipment.

Specifications

• Total Power: 400W (4x100W panels or 2x200W panels).
• Panel Efficiency: >21% monocrystalline.
• Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 22.5V per 100W panel.
• Short Circuit Current (Isc): 5.75A per 100W panel.
• Charge Controller: 40A MPPT, max PV input 100V.
• System Voltage: 12V/24V auto.
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C).
• Panel Dimensions: Approx. 41 x 21 x 1.4 inches per 100W panel.
• Weight: 14.5 lbs per 100W panel.
• Certifications: CE, RoHS, IEC 61215, IEC 61730.

Controls and Settings

Charge Controller Interface: LCD display shows PV voltage, battery voltage, charging current, power, and status.

Buttons: SET (enter settings), MENU (navigate), UP/DOWN (adjust values).

Settings Menu: Battery type (Sealed, Gel, Flooded, Li), Charging voltage (Bulk: 14.4V-14.8V, Float: 13.5V-13.8V for 12V), Load control mode (Manual, Timer, Light ON/OFF), Temperature compensation (enable/disable). Protection settings: Over-discharge recovery, low voltage disconnect.

Connecting Components

Panels to Controller: Use MC4 cables. Battery to Controller: Use thick cables (6 AWG recommended). Load to Controller: For DC loads up to 40A.

1. Turn off all switches before connections.
2. Connect battery first (positive to positive, negative to negative).
3. Connect solar panels to controller's PV input.
4. Connect load to load terminals if using controller load output.
5. Secure all connections with proper torque.

Tip: Use a multimeter to verify voltages before final connections.

Operation & Monitoring

Daily operation is automatic once configured.

1. Monitoring: Check LCD for real-time data: PV voltage, battery voltage, charging current.
2. Charging stages: Bulk, Absorption, Float indicated on display.
3. Load management: Set load timer for lights or other DC devices.
4. Data logging: Some models store daily power generation.
5. Seasonal adjustment: Tilt panels seasonally for optimal sun exposure.

WARNING! Do not touch live terminals. Keep children and pets away from equipment.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures peak performance.

• Clean panels every 3-6 months with water and soft cloth (no abrasive cleaners).
• Check connections quarterly for tightness and corrosion.
• Inspect cables for damage from rodents or weather.
• Trim shading vegetation around panels.
• Check battery water levels (if flooded lead-acid).

CAUTION! Disconnect system before cleaning or maintenance. Avoid cleaning during peak sun hours.

Safety Information

Electrical safety: Panels produce DC voltage when exposed to light, even when disconnected. Use insulated tools. Fire safety: Keep flammable materials away. Mounting safety: Secure panels against wind uplift. Battery safety: Ventilate battery area, avoid sparks. Lightning: Install surge protectors in areas prone to lightning.

Regulatory Information

Complies with FCC Part 15 Class B for electromagnetic interference. CE marked for European safety standards. RoHS compliant for hazardous substance restrictions. For technical support, visit www.eco-worthy.com or contact [email protected]. Warranty: 25-year limited power output warranty on panels, 5-year warranty on charge controller.

Troubleshooting

Reset: Disconnect battery and solar, wait 60 seconds, reconnect battery first.

Service: [email protected]; www.eco-worthy.com