GP-FLEX-200/100/100E - Product Manual

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GP-FLEX-100
GP-FLEX-200
GP-FLEX-100E
1.0 General Information
Congratulations on purchasing your Go Power! Solar FlexTM Kit. You have chosen a clean, quiet and sustainable power source. Go Power!
Solar Charging Kits allow you to enjoy the luxuries that electricity provides, without hooking up to shore power, by keeping your batteries
charged. For simple battery maintenance to full-time live-aboard power, Go Power! Solar Kits are available in a variety of sizes and can be
installed on RVs, boats, campers, trailers, fth wheels, motor homes, cottages/cabins, long-haul trucks and industrial applications. This
manual is geared towards RV installation and usability. For other applications, please consult a certied electrician or contact Go Power!
Technical Support. Information in this manual is subject to change, please visit gpelectric.com for the most current version of this manual.
Notes:
Solar Flex Modules have a 30° maximum recommended bend - 2.7” / 69mm bend (100 watt module)
This installation guide does not list all possible variations of available solar modules. This installation guide will address the assembly of Go
Power! Solar FlexTM Kits, which contain one, or more solar modules connected in parallel for a 12 volt system. Expansion Kits are available
to add solar modules to an existing system.
1.1 How Does a Go Power! Solar Charging Kit Work?
The solar module converts the sun’s energy into DC electricity and this electricity charges the battery. The battery stores the electricity,
similar to a water tank storing water. The battery power may be used at any time to operate devices connected to the battery. To stop the
battery from being overcharged by the solar module, a solar controller is connected in between the solar module and the battery. The GP-
PWM-30 controller will disconnect power from the solar module when the battery is fully charged.
Please read and understand all instructions before installing your new product for the easiest and safest installation. Before installing the
kit, please review all diagrams included in this manual. If you have any doubts as to this kit’s compatibility with your RV, please contact your
authorized Go Power! Dealer. It is advisable to retain this manual for future reference.
1.2 Warnings
Disconnect all power
sources before
attempting installation
Electricity can be very dangerous. Installation should be performed only by a
licensed electrician or qualied personnel.
Solar module saftey
Photovoltaic modules generate DC electricity when exposed to sunlight or other
light sources. Contact with the electrically active parts of the module, such as
terminals, can result in burns, sparks and lethal shock whether the module is
connected or disconnected.
When modules are connected in parallel, amperages are additive. Consequently,
a system assembled from photovoltaic modules can produce high amperages,
which constitute an increased hazard. Do not touch terminals while module is
exposed to light. Cover the module face completely with opaque material to halt
the production of electricity when installing or working with modules or wiring.
Battery and wiring
safety
Observe all safety precautions of the battery manufacturer when handling or
working around batteries. When charging, batteries produce hydrogen gas, which
is highly explosive. Work in a well ventilated area and use caution when making or
removing electrical connections. Ensure wires are disconnected from their power
sources when wiring. Do not expose battery to open ame, cigarettes or sparks.
Shield skin and eyes from battery acid.
Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Loose connections may generate
sparks and heat. Be sure to check connections one week after installation to
ensure they are still tight.
Work safely
Wear protective eyewear and appropriate clothing during installation. Use extreme
caution when working with electricity and when handling and working around
batteries. Use properly insulated tools only.
Observe correct
polarity at all times
Reverse polarity of the battery terminals will cause the controller to give a warning
tone. Reverse connection of the array will not cause an alarm but the controller will
not function. Failure to correct this fault could damage the controller.
Do not exceed the
voltage and current
ratings of the
GP-PWM-30 Controller
The total current of the solar system is the sum of the short circuit current of the
solar modules in parallel, multiplied by a safety factor of 1.25. The resulting system
current is not to exceed the amperage rating of the controller. The voltage of the
array is the rated open circuit voltage of the solar modules and is not to exceed 28
volts for a 12 volt system.
The current rating of the solar system is the sum of the Maximum Power Current
(Imp) of the solar PV strings in parallel. The resulting system Imp current is not to
exceed 30A. If your solar system exceeds these ratings, contact your dealer for a
suitable controller alternative.