Problems with Steca 3030 Solar regulator

[Spicemariner]

I have just installed a Steca 3030 solar regulatorto control 3 x 85watt panels, I was using a Steca 2020. The 2020 did give interference on the radio when it was actually regulating but we could live with it. However the new unit, when it starts to regulate, tries to start up the navigation system, a relay can be heard "clunking" and the light on the ship's control panel flashes. The relay gets hot so I have to turn the solar panels off. The suppliers are trying to be helpful but so far no solution, has anyone else had a similar problem?

 

[MacMan]

Sounds weird

I recently installed a Morningstar SunSaver MPPT solar regulator to manage our 4 * 32W panels. And experienced nothing like this. I would give the supplier the chance replace the unit or just go for a complete refund. Even the minor interference is surely unacceptable ?

I don't know your model but surely the wiring is pretty simple - +ve and -ve into the controller from the panels and +ve and -ve out to the battery bank.

Don't see how you can get this wrong ? So surely it must be the unit. My regulator worked first time - and "just works"!

My regulator did specify "decent ventillation"- mine is installed in the Engine compartment which actually gets quite hot (the compartment not the regulator) but I still haven't had any problems.

 

[lenseman]

Correct Commissioning?

This is the second time I have tried to reply to this thread.

You need to connect the unit exactly a stated in the Instruction Manual or it will not work correctly.

Observe the following connection sequence during commissioning:
1. Connect the battery to the charge regulator - plus and minus
2. Connect the photovoltaic module to the charge regulator- plus and minus
3. Connect the consumer to the charge regulator - plus and minus

The reverse order applies when deinstalling!

Please observe that the automatic adjustment to 12V / 24V systems does not function properly, if this sequence order is not followed.
An improper sequence order can damage the battery!


Ahhhh, Cross-Posting!! No wonder I could not see my previous reply as it was in the Liveaboard Forum. Please only post to one forum to save the wrath of other Forumites.

I have just installed a Steca 3030 solar regulatorto control 3 x 85watt panels, I was using a Steca 2020. The 2020 did give interference on the radio when it was actually regulating but we could live with it. However the new unit, when it starts to regulate, tries to start up the navigation system, a relay can be heard "clunking" and the light on the ship's control panel flashes. The relay gets hot so I have to turn the solar panels off. The suppliers are trying to be helpful but so far no solution, has anyone else had a similar problem?