I received a call on Tuesday, July 30th, 2024, from Mr.Etenge (my client) whose solar panel installation I completed in early 2023, located in Uyo.
He was experiencing an issue with his batteries no longer charging from the panels properly.
This is a comon problem when there is an error in the installation of the panels such as :
But trust me, I didn't make any of those errors. I always check my panels output before and after installation. Here are the few tests I carry out after every installation I make:
👉 I ensured that all components are installed correctly without any damage and this goes as far as checking for any signs of wear, corrosion, or physical damage. This is what I called "visual check".
👉 I carry out a Voc(Open Circuit Voltage) test. This is to ensure that the panels matches the manufacturer's specifications. I mostly use Canadian panels", I have mentioned this before in most of my solar posts. If there is an issue with any of the panels wire or connection, this brief test will help to identify
👉 I carry out MPP(Maximum Power Point) test to be sure that the system is operating at its maximum power output as it should.
I am 100% sure of the good job I did. But where was the problem coming from? 🤔
I climbed up to the rooftop to check each panel's output just to be sure of where the problem is coming from.
Alas, one of them was producing abnormal readings indicating a fault in the diode's operation.
Well, It was only one panel that was faulty, so I took it to my shop to repair.
I first opened the panel circuit board as you can see above...
To cut the long story short...after several troubleshooting, see what I found out below 👇👇
Oops, the panel's internal diodes have burnt out..🔥
I suspect this is - as a result of the lightning strike that happened last week here in Uyo.
Unfortunately, there is no lightning arrester installed in his house, despite my previous recommendations. I even offer to sell it to him at a good discount rate 🤷♂️
The 200W Canadian panel circuit board is made up of 3 pieces of 10SQ050 Schottky diode which operate as a bypass diode in solar panels like this.
These diodes help protect the panels from overheating and hotspots, preventing power loss due to shading or cell failure, and ultimately improving the overall panel efficiency and reliability.
I replaced the three bad diodes with new ones and conducted some tests.
Everything is now working well. 🙂
Each of those diodes cost ten thousand naira(#10,000) which is equivalent to about 36 Steem. A total of 108 Steem was spent to buy these diodes.
Well, I charged him for my services 🙂. It was fair enough and we still have a good business relationship.
He has now installed a thunder arrestor in his house. "Prevention" they say "is better than cure".
Should you need such services or a solar installer, please kindly contact me especially if you are from Nigeria.
Have a lovely day ahead and drink much water....✍