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Solar Home System

1. DIY SOLAR HOME SYSTEM

1.4. MODULE 4

Module 4:

Solar Home System Installation & Maintenance

1. Safety Precautions

⚠️ Work Safely!

  • Turn off all power (solar panels + batteries) before wiring.

  • Wear gloves & goggles (battery acid is dangerous!).

  • Use insulated tools to avoid shocks.

  • Never touch bare wires or live terminals.

📌 Remember:

  • Solar panels generate power even when it’s cloudy!

  • Batteries can explode if short-circuited.

2. Mounting Solar Panels

Where to Install?

  • Best Spot: Rooftop or ground with no shade (south-facing in the Northern Hemisphere).

  • Angle: Tilt panels to match your latitude for max sunlight.

How to Mount?

  1. Fix mounting brackets (roof/ground).

  2. Attach panels securely (use rust-proof bolts).

  3. Leave gaps for airflow (prevents overheating).

📌 Pro Tip:

  • Check for strong winds/snow load in your area!

3. Wiring the System

Step-by-Step:

  1. Connect panels → charge controller (use thick, UV-resistant cables).

  2. Connect charge controller → battery (match + and – terminals!).

  3. Connect battery → inverter → home appliances.

📌 Key Rules:

  • Fuse all connections (prevents fires).

  • Keep wires short & tidy (less power loss).

4. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Problem 1: Battery Not Charging

✅ Check:

  • Are panels in sunlight?

  • Are all wires connected tightly?

  • Is the charge controller working (LED lights on)?

Problem 2: Inverter Not Powering Appliances

✅ Check:

  • Is the battery charged?

  • Is the inverter turned on?

  • Is the inverter big enough for the appliance?

Problem 3: Low Power Output

✅ Check:

  • Are panels dirty? (Clean with water + soft cloth.)

  • Is there shading on panels?

Activities

1. Video Demonstration

📹 Watch a step-by-step installation (10 mins):

  • Mounting panels → Wiring → Testing the system.

2. Fault-Finding Exercise

🔧 Scenario: "The battery isn’t charging. What’s wrong?"

  • Learners check:

    • Loose wires?

    • Blown fuse?

    • Dead charge controller?

Quick Cheat Sheet

Issue Likely Fix
No power to inverter Check battery charge & fuses
Panels not working Clean panels, check connections
Battery drains fast Add more panels/batteries