How to Test Solar Panel Wattage in Pakistan
Do you have a solar panel system for home or business in Pakistan? It’s essential to check the wattage of each solar plate regularly. Solar panel wattage test is one of the tests to ensure your solar panel is performing properly and delivering maximum output.
A common question is: How do you test solar panel wattage? You can check solar panel watts using two main tests: the voltage open circuit (VOC) test or the ISC (current short circuit) test.
For safety and accuracy, we always advise that all technical tests be conducted by licensed professionals, like our expert team at Shahid System.
In this blog post, you’ll learn how to check solar panel watts correctly and safely.
How to Calculate Solar Panel Wattage?
To get started the right way, you’ll need to understand the basic math formula to find wattage. Here’s how to calculate wattage:
Volts × Amps = Wattage
For example, 220v × 4a =880w
Here is how to calculate step by step by using a multimeter.
- Make sure your solar panel should be clean.
- Check on the back of the solar plate, open-circuit voltage, and solar panel amperage.
- Remove the cover of the converter box from the solar panel back and expose the wiring.
- Set your multimeter to measure DC voltage, then connect it across the solar plate’s positive and negative ends. Calculate the reading.
- To measure DC current, adjust the multimeter accordingly to the amp and connect it to the panel’s terminal while the solar panel receives full sunlight.
- Multiply the measured DC voltage (in volts) by measuring the current (in amps) to get the power in watts.
- Now, by using the above formula, calculate the wattage and take 75% of that wattage, which is the accurate output of your solar plates.
VOC or Voltage Open Circuit
This is the easiest test to check solar panel wattage; start by disconnecting your solar panel connections. Once it’s safely disconnected, measure the voltage output under the optimal conditions, with the sun at its peak, around noon. Make sure to clean your solar panels before conducting this test. Further, you can verify the reading by comparing it to your solar panel specification.
Most of the solar panels show key voltage values: Vmp (Voltage maximum power) and VOC (voltage open circuit). If your readings for Vmp are around 22 volts and for Voc should be between 17-18 volts, then your solar panel is working properly.
ISC or Current Short Circuit Test
This is a more challenging and advanced test and requires additional knowledge and tools. To run this test, you’ll need a clamp on meter to measure the amount of current your panel is producing. When the necessary tools are in hand, remove the connection to your solar panel and take the two wires coming out of it.
Now, connect the positive wire to the negative wire to create a short circuit. It’s time to measure the amount of current flowing through these wires. For safety and accuracy, this number matches the lsc on your solar pane specification sheet; if not, it may signal an issue.
Solar Panel Tester and Preparation
Before testing or checking the watt of your solar panel, you should know these details.
Multimeter
You should purchase a multimeter device that can measure voltage (volts), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). It’s better to buy a digital multimeter than an analog one; it’ll show more accurate readings.
Direct Sun Light
When you are going to measure, make sure it is clear and bright bay. Moreover, the solar panel surface should be towards direct sunlight. This preparation will provide you with accurate readings.
Conclusion
Solar panels are a reliable energy solution, yet regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance. A quick way to ensure performance is necessary to test solar panel wattage regularly. You’ve learned how to test solar panel watts; now you can practice. Be sure to check every new solar plate before installing it.
Quick and reliable testing by trained professionals at Shahid System Solar Solutions helps to improve performance and guarantee maximum efficiency.
