Common Problems

Question:
Why does my solar charge controller show a low battery charge level, even though I'm sure that the batteries are charged?

Answer:
Don't panic! This is a common issue and normally happens after the system has been disconnected and reconnected in the wrong order. Surprisingly, it is essential that the compnent parts of a solar system are connected in the exact order from the instruction manual, especially with the Steca Solarix and PR ranges.

(all Steca manuals are available for download on their main site: www.steca.de).

Basically, many solar charge controllers use the battery voltage as their initial reference point. If connected in the wrong order, or at any point left with only the panel connected, they can pick up the panel voltage as the reference (typically 17V) and will show a low battery charge level.

To rectify the problem:

Disconnect everything in the following order:
1. detach the load
2. detach the panel
3. detach the batteries

Leave everything for a good 15-mins to reset.

If possible, ensure that the batteries are fully charged.

Reconnect the system in the following order:
1. cover the solar panel with an opaque cloth or turn it glass down, so that it cannot see any sunlight
2. attach the batteries
3. attach the panel
4. attach the load
5. uncover the solar panel so that it sees sunlight

If the above doesn't resolve the problem immediately, disconnect the system and then reconnect everything but the load. Leave for at least 24-hours (with the solar panel exposed to sunlight) then reconnect the load.

If you are still experiencing problems, please contact us directly.