JULY 2023 FAQ

Can A 25W 12V Solar Panel Power A 12V Fan Without A Battery?

Yes, you can power DC 12V fans directly with a solar panel, however, there are some drawbacks to doing so. First, you must select a panel that has very minimal ISC (short circuit current) - something that will not exceed one of the fan's motors. Taking a 25W panel as an example, the typical ISC of the panel is 1.50A. So, the 12V fan you connect to cannot require less than 1.50A, otherwise, you run the risk of damaging the fan or panel. You have to keep in mind that since you do not have a battery backup, the fan will only run when there is direct sunlight (which depending on where you live will be no more than 3-5 hours a day). The rest of the day, the fan will not run, as there is no backup power to run on. Another drawback is that you will need to adjust the wiring to connect the two. Most 25W panels come with bare terminals, and depending on the fan you want to run, you will have to splice the cable and do some sort of protection like wire cable to connect. You could also add a DC-to-DC converter in between the two, which would act as a regulator and lower the higher voltage of the panel as needed.

Can You Leave Disconnected Solar Panels Out In The Sun For A Few Weeks/Months?

This is a common question, especially from those who are new to solar. We recommend that you never leave unconnected panels out in the sun for any period. The reason is that even though they’re not connected to anything, they’re still drawing in power to live wires. That’s why we always recommend that if you have to leave them outside while unconnected, please cover them with something the sun cannot penetrate. Or just store them indoors for the time being.

What Is The Best Method To Clean Newpowa Solar Panels?

The recommended method for cleaning Newpowa solar panels is to use clean water (no harsh chemicals), a microfiber cloth, and a squeegee. Please proceed to wet the face of the panel, and lightly clean the face of the panel with a wet microfiber cloth. Once done, you can let it air dry, but we recommend using a squeegee to clear off all the leftover water.