Renogy E.FLEX 80 User Manual

The Renogy E.FLEX 80 is a portable, flexible monocrystalline solar panel with a rated power of 80W. Designed for durability and versatility, it features a high-efficiency ETFE coating, waterproof rating of IP67, and compatibility with 12V/24V battery systems. Ideal for RVs, boats, camping, and off-grid applications. 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 Connections 6. Connecting to Charge Controllers 7. Performance & Monitoring 8. Safety Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Flexible solar panel, MC4 connectors, junction box with bypass diodes, mounting grommets.

Feature	Description
High-Efficiency Cells	Monocrystalline silicon cells with up to 22% efficiency
Flexible Design	Bendable up to 30 degrees for curved surfaces
ETFE Coating	Enhanced light transmission and weather resistance
IP67 Waterproof	Protected against dust and temporary immersion
MC4 Connectors	Standard solar connectors for easy setup
Bypass Diodes	Minimizes power drop from partial shading
Lightweight	Approximately 4.4 lbs (2.0 kg) for easy portability
Wide Temperature Range	Operates from -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
Corrosion-Resistant	Salt mist and ammonia resistant for marine/RV use
Mounting Grommets	Pre-installed holes for secure attachment

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Ensure surface is clean and dry.

Choose location: Select area with maximum sunlight exposure, avoiding shadows.
Prepare surface: Clean mounting area; ensure it is flat or gently curved (≤30° bend).
Mount panel: Use adhesive, zip ties, or screws through grommets; avoid puncturing panel.
Route cables: Secure cables away from sharp edges; use conduit if necessary.
Connect to system: Link MC4 connectors to charge controller (see Section 7).

WARNING! Do not install under load (connected). Avoid walking on panel. Ensure all connections are dry before powering.

First-Time Setup

Connect panel to charge controller and battery; verify operation.

Connect battery: Attach charge controller to battery first (observe polarity).
Connect panel: Plug MC4 connectors from panel to charge controller input.
Check indicators: Confirm charge controller shows PV input and battery charging.
Position panel: Angle toward sun (approx. latitude angle); adjust seasonally.
Test output: Use multimeter at MC4 connectors to verify open-circuit voltage (~21.6V).

CAUTION! Never connect panel directly to battery without charge controller. Reverse polarity can damage equipment.

Specifications

Rated Power (Pmax): 80W
Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
Short Circuit Current (Isc): 4.95A
Optimum Operating Voltage (Vmp): 18.0V
Optimum Operating Current (Imp): 4.44A
Dimensions: 41.0 x 20.9 x 0.08 in (1041 x 531 x 2 mm)
Weight: 4.4 lbs (2.0 kg)
Cell Type: Monocrystalline Silicon
Max System Voltage: 600V (UL certified)
Power Tolerance: 0 ~ +3%
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
Storage Temperature: -40°F to 185°F (-40°C to 85°C)
Warranty: 5-year material/workmanship; 25-year power output (90% in year 10, 80% in year 25)

Controls and Connections

Panel has no active controls; operation managed via charge controller. Connections: MC4 female/male connectors (positive/negative).

Junction Box: Contains bypass diodes; sealed against moisture.

Labels: Positive (+) and Negative (-) clearly marked on cables and junction box.

Mounting: Use grommets at corners; do not overtighten screws.

Connecting to Charge Controllers

Compatible with PWM and MPPT charge controllers for 12V/24V systems.

Turn off all system components before connecting.
Identify polarity: Red cable/connector = positive (+); Black = negative (-).
Connect to controller: Match panel positive to controller PV+ input; negative to PV-.
Secure connections: Ensure MC4 connectors click fully; use wrench for tight seal.
Power sequence: Battery → Charge Controller → Solar Panel.

Tip: For multiple panels, connect in series for higher voltage (24V) or parallel for higher current (12V). Do not exceed controller input limits.

Performance & Monitoring

Optimal output requires direct sunlight; performance varies with angle, season, and weather.

Daily output: Expect 300-400Wh per day (varies with location and season).
Monitoring: Use charge controller display or external meter to track voltage/current.
Cleaning: Keep surface clean; dust/snow can reduce output by up to 15%.
Shading: Avoid partial shading; even small shadows significantly reduce power.
Temperature: Output decreases slightly at high temperatures (~0.4%/°C above 77°F/25°C).

WARNING! Do not attempt to measure short-circuit current directly with multimeter in current mode without proper load. Use appropriate shunts or clamps.

Safety Features

Bypass Diodes: Reduce hotspot heating from shading. IP67 Rating: Water and dust resistance. UL Certification: Complies with safety standards. Reverse Polarity Protection: Requires proper charge controller.

Care & Maintenance

Regular inspection ensures longevity and performance.

Cleaning: Use soft cloth with water; mild soap if needed. Do not use abrasive materials.
Inspection: Check for cracks, delamination, or connector corrosion every 3-6 months.
Connectors: Ensure MC4 connectors are sealed; apply dielectric grease if in harsh environments.
Storage: Store in cool, dry place if not in use; avoid folding sharply.

CAUTION! Do not spray with high-pressure water. Do not disconnect under load. Avoid contact with chemicals or oils.

Regulatory Information

Complies with UL 1703 standard for flat-plate photovoltaic modules. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; may not cause harmful interference. Copyright © 2023 Renogy; trademarks of Renogy. For support, visit www.renogy.com or contact 1-909-287-7111.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No output from panel	Shading, dirty surface, disconnection	Clean panel; check all connections; ensure no shadows.
Low charging current	Cloudy weather, wrong angle, aging battery	Reposition panel; check battery health; measure irradiance.
Voltage reading zero	Blown fuse, faulty connector, broken wire	Inspect cables/connectors; check fuse in charge controller.
Hotspot on panel	Partial shading, cell damage	Remove shading source; if damage visible, contact support.
Water inside junction box	Seal failure	Disconnect; dry thoroughly; reseal or replace box.

Reset: Disconnect panel and battery; reconnect in correct sequence.

Service: 1-909-287-7111; [email protected]; www.renogy.com