Owens Corning VentSure Solar Attic Exhaust Fan Additional Solar Panel Kit Installation Instructions Manual

The Owens Corning VentSure Solar Attic Exhaust Fan Additional Solar Panel Kit is designed to increase the power output and operational efficiency of your existing VentSure solar attic fan. This kit includes an additional solar panel, mounting hardware, and wiring components for easy integration. Below are key sections covering safety, features, installation, wiring, operation, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: Additional high-efficiency monocrystalline solar panel, universal mounting bracket kit, weatherproof junction box, pre-terminated wiring harness with MC4 connectors, and comprehensive installation hardware.

Safety Precautions

Working on a roof and with electrical components involves risk. Please read all instructions before beginning.

1. Fall Protection: Use proper personal fall arrest equipment (harness, lifeline, anchor).
2. Electrical Safety: Cover existing solar panel with an opaque cloth to de-energize before making connections.
3. Weather: Do not install during rain, snow, or high winds. Avoid working in extreme heat.
4. Roof Integrity: Inspect roof for stability and signs of damage before walking on it.
5. Tool Safety: Use appropriate tools. Secure ladders properly.

WARNING! Failure to follow safety instructions can result in serious injury, death, or property damage. Installation should be performed by a qualified person familiar with roofing and basic electrical work.

Kit Contents

Unpack and verify all parts are present before starting.

• (1) Additional Solar Panel
• (1) Mounting Bracket Assembly (Left & Right sides)
• (1) Weatherproof Electrical Junction Box
• (1) 15-ft Wiring Harness with MC4 Connectors
• (1) Tube of Roof Sealant (Compatible with asphalt shingles)
• (8) Stainless Steel Lag Screws
• (8) Neoprene Washers
• (10) Cable Ties
• (4) Mounting Clips
• (1) Installation Manual (this document)

CAUTION! Do not discard packaging until all parts are verified. Contact Owens Corning if any items are missing.

Installation Overview

The installation process involves mounting the new panel, running wiring, making electrical connections, and sealing all roof penetrations.

1. Plan Layout: Determine optimal location for the new panel (south-facing, unobstructed sun, near existing panel/fan).
2. Mount Brackets: Secure mounting brackets to roof rafters.
3. Attach Panel: Secure the solar panel to the mounted brackets.
4. Route Wiring: Run the wiring harness from the new panel to the existing fan junction box.
5. Make Connections: Connect the new panel in parallel with the existing panel inside the junction box.
6. Seal & Secure: Apply sealant to all roof penetrations and secure wiring.
7. Test System: Remove cover from existing panel and test fan operation.

Mounting the Additional Solar Panel

Proper mounting is critical for performance and roof integrity.

1. Locate Roof Rafters: Use a stud finder to locate and mark the center of two rafters where the brackets will attach.
2. Position Brackets: Place the L and R bracket assemblies on the roof, aligned with rafter marks. Ensure they are level and spaced correctly for the panel's mounting holes.
3. Pre-drill Holes: At each bracket foot location, pre-drill a pilot hole through the shingles and into the rafter.
4. Apply Sealant: Apply a generous bead of provided roof sealant around the base of each bracket foot and on the neoprene washer.
5. Secure Brackets: Fasten each bracket foot to the rafter using the provided lag screws and washers. Tighten securely but do not overtighten.
6. Mount Panel: With help, lift the solar panel onto the brackets. Align the mounting holes on the panel frame with the slots on the brackets.
7. Secure Panel: Use the provided bolts, washers, and nuts to secure the panel to the brackets. Hand-tighten, then use a wrench to secure firmly.

Tip: The panel should be tilted at an angle approximately equal to your latitude for optimal annual performance.

Electrical Wiring & Connection

Connecting the new panel in parallel increases current while maintaining system voltage.

1. De-energize System: Cover the EXISTING solar panel completely with an opaque cloth or cardboard.
2. Route Wiring Harness: Run the new panel's wiring harness along the roof to the existing fan's junction box. Use cable ties and mounting clips to secure it neatly every 18-24 inches. Avoid sharp bends.
3. Enter Junction Box: If necessary, create a new entry point in the existing junction box using a knockout or approved drill bit. Use a weatherproof cable gland to seal the entry.
4. Identify Wires: Inside the junction box, identify the positive (+) and negative (-) wires from the ORIGINAL solar panel and from the FAN motor.
5. Parallel Connection:
   • Connect the POSITIVE (+) wire from the NEW panel to the POSITIVE (+) wire from the ORIGINAL panel (use a wire nut or provided connector).
   • Connect the NEGATIVE (-) wire from the NEW panel to the NEGATIVE (-) wire from the ORIGINAL panel.
   • The combined positive and negative leads then connect to the corresponding fan motor terminals (likely already done).
6. Secure Connections: Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Tuck wires neatly into the junction box and replace the cover securely.

WARNING! Incorrect wiring (series instead of parallel) can damage the fan motor. Double-check polarity before uncovering the original panel.

System Testing & Commissioning

Verify the installation is successful and the system operates correctly.

1. Visual Inspection: Check all mounting points, sealant beads, and wire routing. Ensure junction box is closed tightly.
2. Remove Cover: Carefully remove the opaque cloth from the ORIGINAL solar panel.
3. Operational Test: On a sunny day, the attic fan should begin to spin shortly after the original panel is uncovered. The added panel will cause it to start sooner and spin faster, especially in marginal light.
4. Performance Check: Listen for smooth fan operation. There should be no unusual vibrations or noises.
5. Final Sealant Application: Apply an additional bead of sealant over the lag screw heads and around the base of all brackets and cable entry points. Smooth with a putty knife.

Note: The fan may not operate at night or under heavy cloud cover. This is normal.

Performance Specifications

• Additional Panel Power Rating: XX Watts (see panel label for exact value)
• Panel Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
• Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): Approx. XX V
• Short Circuit Current (Isc): Approx. XX A
• Combined System Effect: Increases total available current, improving startup time and airflow in low-light conditions.
• Operating Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
• Max Wind Load: 2400 Pa (50 psf)
• Max Snow Load: 5400 Pa (113 psf)

Care & Maintenance

Minimal maintenance is required for long-term performance.

1. Panel Cleaning: Periodically clean the glass surface of BOTH solar panels with water and a soft cloth to remove dust, pollen, or bird droppings. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
2. Inspection: Annually, inspect mounting hardware, sealant, and wiring for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
3. Roof Check: Inspect the roof area around the mounts for any signs of leaks, especially after heavy rain.
4. Trim Vegetation: Keep tree branches trimmed to prevent shading and physical damage.

CAUTION! Always de-energize the system by covering the panels before performing any maintenance near the electrical components.

Regulatory Information

This product complies with applicable U.S. safety and performance standards. The solar panel may be subject to local building codes and electrical codes. It is the installer's responsibility to ensure compliance with all local regulations, including obtaining necessary permits. This product is intended for residential use with specified Owens Corning VentSure fans only. Unauthorized modification voids the warranty.

For technical support or warranty information, contact Owens Corning:
Phone: 1-800-GET-PINK (1-800-438-7465)
Website: www.owenscorning.com

Troubleshooting

Reset: If issues persist, de-energize the system (cover panels), disconnect and reconnect all wiring following the diagram, then re-test.

Service: For persistent issues not resolved above, contact Owens Corning customer support. Do not attempt to repair the solar panel itself.