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The Dark Side of the Solar Market: Exposing Overrated Solar Panels and Fraud

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Introduction: The global push for renewable energy has accelerated the demand for solar panels, a key player in the shift toward clean energy. Unfortunately, alongside this surge, dishonest practices have emerged in the solar industry. One of the most significant issues today is the sale of overrated or falsely labeled solar panels. This blog sheds light on how to identify fraudulent solar panels, drawing from my personal experience. We'll also explore practical ways to avoid falling victim to this widespread scam. Case Study: My Experience with Overrated Solar Panels Recently, I purchased six used solar panels, each rated at 250 watts. However, upon closer inspection, I noticed clear signs of label tampering. Four of the panels had residual adhesive from older labels, and two others had new labels entirely covering old ones. Suspecting foul play, I peeled back the new labels, only to find that the actual rating was 175 watts, not the advertised 250 watts. This discovery wasn’t jus
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Why Mixing Battery Types in Your Solar Power System is a Bad Idea

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One of my clients asked if he could use an AGM battery alongside the tubular battery he is already using in his system. I advised him against it, and here are the reasons why combining different battery types in the same system is not recommended: Combining an AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) battery with a tubular battery in a solar power system is generally not recommended. Here are some reasons why: 1. Different Charging Requirements: AGM and tubular batteries have different charging profiles. AGM batteries typically require a specific charging voltage and current, which differs from the requirements of tubular batteries. Using them together can lead to improper charging, reducing the lifespan and efficiency of both types of batteries. 2. Different Discharge Characteristics: The discharge rates and depth of discharge capabilities vary between AGM and tubular batteries. AGM batteries are usually designed for lower discharge rates and shallower cycles, while tubular batteries can
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Decoding Solar Charge Controller Specs: A Deep Dive with Victron 100/30 MPPT

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Are you planning to enhance your solar setup but feel overwhelmed by the technical jargon? Look no further. In this guide, we dissect the Victron 100/30 MPPT charge controller, a pivotal piece in the solar energy puzzle, to bring clarity to the essential terms and limits involved. Understanding the specifications of your solar charge controller is crucial for maximizing system performance and longevity. From "Rated Charge Current" to "Max PV Input Power," we’ll explain each specification in detail. This knowledge will empower you to match your solar panel and battery setup perfectly, ensuring efficient and safe solar power management. Whether you're setting up a new system or optimizing an existing one, this guide will transform complex specifications into practical insights. Join us as we unravel the mysteries of solar charge controller specifications and turn technical challenges into renewable opportunities.  The specifications listed for the charge controlle
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