question

jeffgrantwyo avatar image
jeffgrantwyo asked

Smart Solar 250/100 not showing any voltage from solar array

I can read voltage (the voltage I would expect to read) on the leads going from my solar isolator to my Smart Solar 250/100, but when I connect to the Smart Solar, it doesn't read or display any voltage. I also read no voltage on the terminals.

I checked polarity, I checked the MC4 connections, and I checked all of my connections on my Rich Solar panels (5S2P).

I sent the charge controller back to Bay Marine and they did a comprehensive test but found no problem with the unit and is sending it back to me.

The Bay Marine tech said that issue seems to be when the charge controller puts a load on the solar array and he gave me some ideas of things to check/test. However, 'm wondering if anyone in the Victron Community can give me some suggestions of things to check or perhaps has run into this exact issue and can give me even more direct info/ideas.

Jeff



MPPT SmartSolarSolar Panelvoltage
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2 Answers
Michelle Konzack avatar image
Michelle Konzack answered ·

What thing is this "solar isolator"?


For me it seems a problem with the cabeling between the SmartSolar and your "solar isolator" or the "solar isolator" itself.

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jeffgrantwyo avatar image
jeffgrantwyo answered ·

A solar isolator is an on/off switch for the supply from the solar array.

In the attached photo, it's the white thing above the charge controller.img-2691.jpg


img-2691.jpg (1.1 MiB)
2 comments
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nickdb avatar image nickdb ♦♦ commented ·

Do not mount anything above the charger like that, it will completely restrict airflow from the heatsink. Make sure you follow the documented install requirements in the manual.

If Bay have given you suggestions, best follow them, they know what they are talking about.

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jeffgrantwyo avatar image jeffgrantwyo nickdb ♦♦ commented ·

Thank you! I will change the location of the solar isolator.

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