Sunforce 130 WATT CRYSTALLINE SOLAR PANEL User Manual

The Sunforce 130 Watt Crystalline Solar Panel is a high-efficiency, weather-resistant solar module designed for off-grid power generation. It features a durable aluminum frame, tempered glass surface, and pre-drilled mounting holes for easy installation. Ideal for charging 12V batteries in RVs, cabins, boats, and backup power systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-efficiency crystalline solar cells, Weatherproof junction box with MC4 connectors, Anodized aluminum frame, Tempered glass surface, Pre-drilled mounting holes.

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Choose location with maximum sunlight exposure.

1. Select mounting location: Ensure full sun exposure from 9am to 3pm with minimal shading.
2. Mount panel: Use pre-drilled holes with appropriate hardware (not included). Secure to roof, ground mount, or pole.
3. Angle adjustment: Tilt panel toward equator (approximately equal to your latitude for fixed mounts).
4. Route cables: Use UV-resistant cable conduits; leave slack for thermal expansion.

WARNING! Panel is heavy and glass can break; use proper lifting techniques and safety equipment during installation.

First-Time Setup

Connect panel to charge controller before connecting to battery.

1. Verify system voltage: Ensure compatible with 12V battery systems.
2. Connect to charge controller: Use MC4 connectors to link panel to controller INPUT terminals.
3. Connect controller to battery: Connect controller OUTPUT to battery terminals (positive to positive, negative to negative).
4. Verify operation: Check charge controller display for incoming solar power.

CAUTION! Never connect panel directly to battery without charge controller. Always connect battery to controller before connecting solar panel.

Specifications

• Maximum Power (Pmax): 130W
• Open Circuit Voltage (Voc): 21.6V
• Short Circuit Current (Isc): 7.63A
• Maximum Power Voltage (Vmp): 17.7V
• Maximum Power Current (Imp): 7.34A
• Maximum System Voltage: 600V DC
• Power Tolerance: ±3%
• Temperature Coefficient of Pmax: -0.45%/°C
• Temperature Coefficient of Voc: -0.34%/°C
• Temperature Coefficient of Isc: 0.05%/°C
• NOCT (Nominal Operating Cell Temperature): 45°C ± 2°C
• Fire Rating: Class C

Controls and Connections

Panel has no active controls. All system control through charge controller.

Junction Box: Contains bypass diodes to minimize power loss from shading. Sealed with IP65 rating.

MC4 Connectors: Positive (male/female) and Negative (male/female) for series or parallel connections. Color coded: Red for positive, Black for negative.

Mounting Points: 14 pre-drilled holes (8 on long sides, 6 on short sides) for various mounting configurations.

Connecting to System

For 12V battery systems. Requires charge controller (not included).

1. Turn off all system components before connecting.
2. Connect panel to charge controller INPUT using MC4 connectors.
3. Connect charge controller OUTPUT to battery terminals.
4. Connect load to charge controller LOAD terminals or directly to battery.
5. For multiple panels: Connect in series for higher voltage, parallel for higher current.

Tip: Use proper gauge wire (minimum 10 AWG for runs under 20 feet) to minimize voltage drop.

Operation & Performance

Panel generates DC electricity when exposed to sunlight.

1. Optimal performance: Clean surface, proper angle, no shading, cool temperatures.
2. Daily output: Varies with location, season, weather. Expect 400-800 watt-hours daily.
3. Monitoring: Check charge controller for voltage, current, and power readings.
4. Seasonal adjustment: Change tilt angle seasonally for maximum yield.
5. Shading impact: Even partial shading significantly reduces output; keep entire panel in sun.

WARNING! Panel produces voltage whenever exposed to light, even on cloudy days. Treat as live electrical source at all times.

Safety Features

Bypass Diodes: Minimize hot spots and power loss from partial shading. Weather Resistance: IP65 rated junction box, waterproof up to junction box only. Frame Grounding: Provides grounding point for lightning/surge protection systems.

Care & Maintenance

Regular cleaning maintains optimal performance. Turn off system before maintenance.

1. Cleaning: Use soft cloth, mild soap, and water. Rinse with clean water.
2. Frequency: Clean every 3-6 months, more often in dusty areas or after storms.
3. Inspection: Check for cracks, delamination, corrosion, loose connections quarterly.
4. Snow removal: Use soft broom; do not use sharp tools or hot water on cold glass.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners, pressure washers, or walk on panel. Do not clean when panel is hot or during peak sun hours.

Regulatory Information

UL 1703 certified for flat plate photovoltaic modules. FCC Part 15: Class B digital device. Complies with IEEE 1262 standards. Copyright © Sunforce Products Inc. For support, visit www.sunforceproducts.com or contact 1-800-667-8727. 10-year limited warranty on materials and workmanship; 25-year linear power output warranty (minimum 80% of rated power at 25 years).

Troubleshooting

Testing: Use multimeter to check Voc (open circuit) and Isc (short circuit) under full sun. Disconnect from system first.

Service: 1-800-667-8727; www.sunforceproducts.com