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Everything You Need to Know About Solar Chargers

Author: CC

May. 06, 2024

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Everything You Need to Know About Solar Chargers

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Rain or shine we get a huge number of calls about solar power each day. We’ll attempt to answer the questions asked most often so we can save you a phone call.

Before we get started, you should know that solar power is not the cure-all for replacing spent energy. For example, some people are trying to recharge batteries for a trolling motor, boat, RV, house, electric scooter, backwoods cabin, etc., and they want it done in very short time, usually in just a few days. Assume you take a discharged 100-amp hour battery and charge it with a 30-watt solar panel under ideal summertime light conditions. After a full week, the battery will be just about fully charged. Using this example, you can see that it will take at least 100 watts of solar power to recharge a 100-amp hour battery in a few days.

Also, keep in mind that it takes direct sunshine on the surface of the panel to produce the maximum-rated power of a solar panel. Conditions such as an overcast sky, shadows, improper mounting angle, equatorial direction or short winter days will reduce the actual solar panel output to below the rated values.

VOLTAGE RATING

Most solar chargers are designed for 12 VDC, but we do have limited availability on a 24-volt panel. Typically, when 24 volts or greater is needed, solar panels may be wired in series, or we can special order solar panels that are made to deliver more DC Volts such as 24V, 36V, 48V etc.

CONTROLLERS

Anytime you use a panel that is over 5 watts rated output, we recommend using a solar charge controller. Actually, a charge controller is a good idea in a majority of applications, as it can provide several benefits such as preventing overcharge, improving charge quality, and preventing battery discharge in low or no-light conditions. Some solar panels are made with blocking diodes pre-installed that prevent battery discharge during low or no-light conditions. In most cases where a 6-watt or larger solar panel is installed, the use of a charger controller is highly recommended. In a nutshell, a solar charge controller acts like an on and off switch, allowing power to pass when the battery needs it and cutting it off when the battery is fully charged. Something to be aware of when selecting a controller is that they are typically rated in amps, while photovoltaic panels are typically rated in watts. That means a solar charge controller such as the Morning Star SS6L, 6-amp controller will work with nearly every panel we sell, right up to about 70 watts.

POWER RATING WATTS AND AMPS

Solar panel manufacturers rate solar output in watts. As a rule of thumb, a rating of 15 watts delivers about 3,600 coulombs (1 AH) per hour of direct sunlight. As an example, the Pulse Tech SP-7 panel can output .33AH per hour of direct sunlight. This is a very popular panel for maintaining single and dual batteries for stand-by and storage applications.

HOW DO I FIGURE SOLAR PANEL SIZE

The first thing to remember about solar power is that it is all a matter of numbers. The power you require vs. the power the panel can put out. Before you can even get started when purchasing a panel, you need to know how many amp hours or watts you’ll need to produce in a set period of time. This figure could be measured in hours or days. Since there are 24 hours in a day, we suggest you use that as a baseline. First, determine your total electrical consumption in that time period. Then figure the amount of direct sunlight the solar panel will receive in that time period and come up with a total amount of watt hours needed. You should always err on the side of caution and over-estimate your power needs. Typically we see an average of 4 hours of usable sunlight in the winter, and 6 hours of usable sunlight in summer. Granted, there are exceptions to these averages, but erring on the side of caution creates a more reliable solar system. These averages also help compensate for variables like shade, clouds, panel angle, etc. Once you have a good handle on your power requirements, I suggest you go to our Solar Calculator.

OUTPUT CONDITIONS

Solar panel ratings are calculated in bright direct sunlight. Conditions such as indirect sunlight, overcast and partial shade conditions will decrease the output. We always recommend over-sizing the size of your solar array, as these conditions occur often. Also, remember that the length of daylight in summer vs. winter can make an impact.

One of the biggest errors commonly seen is when a solar array is designed in summer using summer daylight hours, but then it’s also used in the winter. The first complaint is often related to the batteries no longer holding up under load. This is a gradual process that begins when you lose daylight hours, and you start taking the battery pack beyond a 50% depth of discharge. When this happens, the batteries start to sulfate at a much quicker rate, and begin to no longer hold under load. As you can imagine, this is an expensive mistake! The solution generally involves more panels and new batteries with a higher Amp/Hr reserve. Therefore, we advise our customers to be conservative when accounting for daylight hours. Also, if you plan to utilize a solar array year-round, then you need to factor in your daily solar input for winter.

OPERATING A DEVICE DIRECTLY FROM A SOLAR PANEL BATTERY CHARGER

We carry several foldable/portable solar panels for backpacking that come with a female cigarette lighter adapter. This adapter allows you to power 12v accessories that commonly use a 12v DC plug. In order to connect directly to a panel, the device cannot be sensitive to voltage variation—otherwise they may shut down. To solve this problem, it’s best to use a small battery as a storage vessel for energy that will provide constant source of stable, reliable power. To do this, we recommend using a solar charge controller, Y-connector with a battery inline on one leg, and the female cigarette socket on the other leg.

ARE SOLAR PANELS WEATHER PROOF

Nearly all solar panels are designed for outdoor installation, as this is where they will receive the best, most direct exposure to sunlight. Remember that anything less than that will cause the panel to produce less than its full-rated power.

DO I HAVE TO MAINTAIN SOLAR PANELS

A periodic inspection to remove dirt, debris and check electrical connections is all that is needed. Keeping the panel clear of snow and debris will allow for better results.

HOW LONG DO SOLAR PANELS LAST

Performance from a solar panel will vary, but in most cases guaranteed power output life expectancy is between 3 and 25 years. This guaranteed life expectancy rating is usually 80% of the published rating of the solar panel. Of course, this will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, and as always, you typically get what you pay for. Watch out for those cheap panels made in Paki-china-nam-istan.

USE OF A POWER INVERTER

Many folks use a DC to AC power inverter to convert 12 VDC to 110 VAC. Since they change power from one form to another, inverters are power-gobbling monsters and should be avoided when possible. If you have a choice of a 12-volt, DC-powered device or 110-volt AC device, go with the 12-volt DC device. There are DC devices on the market that either step down or step up DC power, and these also use significantly more power.

DC to AC via an Inverter Formula Examples

This “rule of thumb” is intended as a general guide for estimating the DC amps required operating a DC to AC power inverter. Since the calculations yield approximate values, an appropriate safety factor should be considered when designing and specifying system components, such as wire, size and length. This basically means “oversize your system.”

12-Volt DC Systems

Formula: 12-volt inverters require approximately ten 10 amps DC input for each 100 watts output power used to operate an AC load.

Example: How many DC amps will a 12-volt inverter require to operate three 500-watt quartz lights, or a 1500-watt electric heater?

Answer:

  • 1) Total watts = 1500
  • 2) 1500 watts/100 (from formula) = 15
  • 3) 15 X 10 amps (from formula) = 150 amps.

This is the DC current the inverter will use to operate the 1500-watt load. Note: If these 150 amps are drawn from the battery for one hour, 150 amp hours of battery power will be used.

To support 150 amp hours of battery power, 300 amps of battery capacity should be used for maximum battery life and performance.

24-Volt DC Systems

Formula: 24-volt inverters require approximately 5 amps DC input for each 100 watts output power used to operate an AC load.

Example: How many DC amps will a 24-volt inverter require to operate three 500-watt quartz lights, or a 1500-watt electric heater?

Answer:

  • 1) Total watts = 1500
  • 2) 1500 watts/100 (from formula) = 15
  • 3) 15 X 5 amps (from formula) = 75 amps.

This is the DC current the inverter will use to operate the 1500-watt load. Note: If these 75 amps are drawn from the battery for one hour, 75 amp hours of battery power will be used.

To support 75 amp hours of battery power, 150 amps of battery capacity should be used for maximum battery life and performance.

Ready to harness the power of the sun? Shop for a solar charger and accessories.

Solar Calculator

Whether you need a solar battery charger for boat, solar trickle charger for car battery, or a solar ac charger, we have the right chargers for any application.

Choose Your Solar Charger

Solar Lights Buying Guide: How To Choose The Best ...

One of the most productive technological advances is solar lighting. The new and improved solar light system, which incorporates solar batteries, solar panels, etc., offers numerous benefits when used as a home, garden, or outdoor lighting.

In the post, we relied solely on natural sunlight for outdoor lighting. But with the right application data, solar-powered systems are now accessible for use in the home and indoor gardening. There's a wide range of possible locations for its installation. All of these fantastic environmental benefits boost the owners' green credibility.

If you love outdoor lighting, you'll love solar lights! These little lights can add so much beauty and tranquillity to your outdoor space, and they're incredibly affordable to install.

In this blog post, we'll outline the different types of solar-powered lights, explain how they work, and tell you everything you need to know about buying solar lights. Ready to get started? We hope so!

What to Look For in Outdoor Solar Lights?

When it comes to solar-powered lights, there is a lot of choice and variety. It can be hard to know what to look for, especially if you're not familiar with the different types of lights. In this buying guide, we'll go over everything you need to know to select a high-quality solar lamp. Learn all you can so you can choose wisely.

Built Quality: To ensure the longest possible lifespan for your solar street light, only purchase high-quality models. The longer anything will last, generally speaking, the higher the quality of the construction. Always opt for a solar street light with a high-quality fibre-plastic body, aluminium body, stainless steel, or full metal body.

Solar Power: A solar-powered street light typically has a primary capacity of 5,6v/4-15w. More power means better quality. Try looking for solar street lights with a voltage of 5v and a wattage range of 4-15w. They have the best prices and can be found easily.

Power Reserve and Battery Lifetime: Maintenance is one of the most important ways to prolong the life of your solar street light. For maximum backup, choose a Lithium Po4 Battery with an ampere rating of between 8000mAH and 18,000mAH. This parameter allows the battery to function optimally even when it is at its weakest. Backup times of 6-14 hours are realistic with 8000mAH and 18,000mAH batteries.

Differentiating Characteristics: Businesses constantly strive to improve their products in order to make them more user-friendly and address their customers' underlying concerns. Solar-powered streetlights that boast protections like IP64-65 should always be given preference. Features such as water resistance, wireless control, motion detection, automatic functions, etc.

Assured Service and Guaranteed Replacement: The quality of the after-sale service provided is just as important as the product itself. It's also a useful way to explain why your company is respected and reliable. Many solar pathway lights company typically offers a warranty of between three and thirty-six months. A good product should come with at least a year's worth of warranty coverage.

Where is the best place to install solar lights?

Adding solar lights to your property can transform it into a beautiful light show. However, before you go out and buy lights, it's important to understand where they'll get the most sunlight. The best place to install solar lights is on your roof since this is where the sun shines the most.

Additionally, be sure to account for wind and weather conditions when choosing a location. If you're not familiar with solar light installation, consult an expert.

Alternatively, you can install solar powered lights in gardens or walkways – just make sure they'll get enough sunlight! In the end, it's important to go ahead and buy solar lights – they're definitely worth it!

How do solar lights work?

The best solar lights are the ones that use sunlight to generate energy. This energy is then used to power light bulbs, making them perfect for outdoor use. There are many different types of solar lights available, so it's important to find the right one for your needs.

Some solar lights come with batteries that can be recharged using a USB port or outlet. The photovoltaic solar cells inside the solar panel are responsible for transforming the sun's energy into usable electricity.

Solar batteries are used to store this energy for later use. When nighttime rolls around, this power is put to use by the illumination LED bulb to brighten the surrounding area.

By regulating the current and lowering the voltage, the supplementary solar controller is a welcome addition. As a result, the battery's temperature drops. Thus, the battery is spared from having to undergo gassing and charging at the same time.

That's why it takes no hit at all. It's also important to choose an ambient light that is weatherproof and durable enough for outdoor use. So, whether you're looking for a special gift for a loved one or you're looking for a durable solar light to use outdoors, this guide will help you find the right one for you!

Installation and Design

Solar spotlights are a great way to spruce up any outdoor decor and turn it into a beautiful ambience that is also functional. Whether you're looking for decorative outdoor string lights or something to keep your property safe at night, solar lights can fulfil both needs easily.

There are different types of solar-powered lights - each with its own set of features and benefits. It is important to carefully consider what type of light you need before making your purchase so as not to get stuck with an unsuitable product later on. Once you have chosen the best option for your situation, there will be ease of installation.

Things to Consider while Buying Solar Lights

When it comes to solar lights, there are a lot of options to choose from. So, how do you know which ones are the best for you? Here are some things to keep in mind when shopping for solar lights:

Light type: some solar lights emit different types of light, such as LEDs or CFLs, while others use incandescent bulbs. Make sure to pick a light that is compatible with the type of solar light you want to use.

With competitive price and timely delivery, BEBEST sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Needs: some solar lights are designed for outdoor use while others are best suited for indoor use. Make sure to pick a light that is best suited for your needs.

Environmental impact: be aware of the environmental impact of each light option - some are more environmentally friendly than others.

Compatibility: make sure to pick a light that is compatible with your specific needs - for example, if you're targeting a nighttime garden patio setting.

Type

When looking to buy solar lights, it is important to be familiar with the three different types of lights - battery-operated, mains powered and solar-powered. After choosing the best outdoor solar path lights that best suit your needs and your budget, make sure you are aware of fake solar lights.

Often times they look like the real thing but may not actually work as well as the originals. So, before making a purchase, do some research first so you don't get scammed!

Brightness

When it comes to solar lights, brightness is definitely one of the key factors that you need to consider. Not only are solar lights useful for illumination purposes outdoors, but they can also be used indoors as well.

Before making a purchase, always take into account how bright the pathway lights are and whether or not you will be able to see them from a distance.

It is also important to make sure that the pathway lights have an adjustable beam so you can adjust their intensity according to your needs. Lastly, buy solar lights in bulk if possible as this will save you money over time.

Weather Resistance

Solar lights are a great way to add outdoor lighting to your home or garden. However, it is important to take into account the weather resistance of the light before making a purchase. Some solar lights are designed for direct sunlight and can be damaged if exposed to this kind of exposure.

Other lights might be better suited for less direct sunlight, such as being able to withstand rain or snowfall. When selecting solar lights, it is also important that they are easy installation and look good on your porch or garden.

Additionally, consider price, quality (elements like durability), warranty offered by the manufacturer, and whether other products in that specific category offer similar features at a lower price point

Durability

When it comes to solar lights, durability tests are a key factor to consider. In the durability testing, check the weather conditions under which these lights will be used, as they will undoubtedly be exposed to harsh conditions.

Also, take into account the light output and lumens of the solar light you are looking to buy. Make sure that what you choose meets your needs perfectly. It's also important that your solar light can easily be switched on and off; this saves you time in the long run.

Additionally, consider buying one that is affordable, has good customer reviews, serves different purposes, comes with a warranty, and free shipping for peace of mind.

Voltage

When it comes to solar lights, getting the right voltage is essential. If you buy solar lights that are not compatible with your home's wiring, you could end up spending a lot of money on repairs or replacements down the line.

Be sure to read the wattage so that you know exactly how bright the light will be and whether it is strong enough for your needs. Compare prices before making a purchase - sometimes deals can be had by looking at customer reviews as well.

Power Source

When it comes to choosing the best power source for your outdoor lighting, solar or battery may seem like the obvious choice. However, there are a few things you need to take into account first. For example, solar doesn't work well in direct sunlight and is unsuitable for areas that receive lots of light during the day. On the other hand, batteries can be drained quickly if not used properly - so make sure you have enough storage space onsite. Another thing to consider is how you will use your lighting. For instance, would you prefer a nightlight that doubles as a garden light? Or do you want something versatile enough to serve as both an outdoor patio light and decoration at home?

Special Features

When it comes to solar lights, special features play a big role. Consider things like motion sensors or timers that will save you from having to switch the light on and off manually.

Make sure the string lights are bright enough so people can see them in dark areas and don't glare. Another important factor to consider when buying solar lights is their durability and price.

As with all long-term investments, make sure you get the best quality product possible at an affordable rate. Solar lights are an excellent choice so make sure you're getting your money's worth!

Best Solar Lights

Solar lights are a great way to add a touch of brightness and style to any outdoor area – from gardens to porches to walkways. When shopping for solar lights, be sure to consider the different features that are important to you.

Some of the most common features include adjustability, brightness, and runtime. Additionally, be sure to read the reviews before making a purchase to make sure you're getting the best solar light available. Solar lights make a great addition to any outdoor area - they'll help keep your area lit up at night!

For Homes

Solar lights are a great way to add light and brightness to any space, indoors or out. There are many different types of solar lights available, so it's important to choose the right one for your needs.

If you live in a cold climate, you might want to consider solar blanket lamps instead. They work by trapping energy from the sun and use this energy to power electronic devices such as LED lights or kettles.

When buying solar string lights online, make sure you read the reviews first before making a purchase - this will help ensure that you get an accurate idea of what type of lamp is best suited for your specific needs!

For Streets

When it comes to outdoor solar lights, there are a lot of different options to choose from. It can be hard to determine which one will best suit your needs, especially if you're not sure what you want.

To make things easier for yourself, think about the purpose of your path lights - is it primarily for outdoor use or does its primary function reside indoors? Once you have determined this, consider the size and brightness that suited your need.

Finally, make sure to test out the light before making a purchase so that you know exactly how bright and colourful it will look in real life.

For Garden

If you want to buy warm white solar lights for your garden, there are a few things you need to consider. The size of the light (whether it needs an outlet and what type of light it produces), the kind of solar panel used, and whether you will be using motion-activated lights or floodlights is important.

Once these details are sorted out, you can start looking at different types of solar lights that suit your specific requirements. There are different types of solar lights- motion-activated, floodlights etcetera- so it is important to choose the one that best suits your garden's lighting needs.

For example, if you want a spotlit area in your garden pathway then a motion-activated light might be ideal while if you just want general illumination then floodlights would be more appropriate.

Once all these factors have been decided on, it is time to choose the right type of solar light for your garden!

How much do Solar Lights Cost?

Solar lights are a great way to add a touch of light and energy to any space. Not only do they cost relatively cheap, but solar lights can also last for up to 10 years without needing a battery replacement.

If you're looking for outdoor lighting, some models also come with built-in floodlights for an extra shine. When thinking about this aspect, you should assess whether the cost of the light and its level of quality are proportionate to one another.

People have a tendency, at times, to choose the cheaper model without giving any thought to the quality or any of the other characteristics. You must first filter down the available selections to those that are within your price range before you make the buy.

Following these instructions will allow you to save more time and prevent you from wasting time on products that do not meet the pricing criteria.

Installing solar lights is easy - just use a suction cup mount and you're good to go. And if you're looking for indoor lighting, some models also come with built-in flood lights or fairy lights for an extra shine.

So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced solar light buyer, this guide will help you find the perfect lights for your home or yard. Happy lighting!

Price

Price is definitely an important factor to consider when shopping for solar lights. Depending on the type and features of the light, prices can vary a lot. Additionally, it's always best to do your research before making a purchase - this will help you get the best deal possible.

Once you've found the perfect solar light for your needs, make sure to install it properly so that it functions optimally! Improper installation might result in low light output or even failure altogether

Features

When it comes to solar lights, there is a lot of variety and choice. It is important to take the time to consider what features you need in a light, as well as its size and battery capacity.

Once these basics are decided, it's time to calculate the price. Make sure you look out for discounts and deals when shopping so that you can get the best deal possible!

Bottom Line

Solar lights are a great way to add some fun and lightness to your outdoor spaces at night. They come in many different styles, sizes and colours, so you're sure to find the perfect one for your needs.

Before making a purchase, be sure to read product reviews and compare prices to ensure you're getting the best deal possible. solar lights are a long-lasting option that doesn't require any maintenance or replacement. So, when it comes to outdoor lighting, solar lights are a top choice!

Solar lights are a great way to light up your outdoor space at night. Not only are they affordable, but they also work by using solar energy.

If you're looking to buy solar lights, make sure to take the following factors into account: where you want to install them, how they work, and what kind of light they produce. Finally, don't forget to factor in the cost of solar lights when making your purchase. Thanks for reading!

For more information and such articles, visit our website, ArkaEnergy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do solar lights require direct sunlight?

Solar lights do not require direct sunlight to work. In fact, they can be used indoors or outdoors and will still provide light. It is best to place solar lights in areas where they will receive the most amount of indirect sunlight - such as a porch, deck or patio.

How long do solar lights usually last?

Solar lights typically last for 2-3 years, depending on the quality of the product and how well they are maintained. Factors like exposure to sunlight, temperature changes, and battery life can all affect the lifespan of solar lights.

Are solar lights dangerous?

Solar lights are not dangerous as long as they are used correctly. Always use a weatherproof light protector and never leave your solar lights unattended.

You should also make sure that all the wires running from the solar panel to the light are properly insulated and covered with waterproof tape or electrical tape. In fact, solar lights can even be helpful in safeguarding property during power outages!

Are you interested in learning more about 15w solar panel factory? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

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