Cautions - Dometic Go Power! Solar Flex Kit GP-FLEX-55 User Manual

2.2 CAUTIONS

Disconnect all power sources before
[page 6] | gpelectric.com
attempting installation
Solar panel safety
Battery and wiring safety
Work safely
Observe correct polarity
at all times
GENERAL INFORMATION
Electricity can be very dangerous. It is critical that the electrical layout and installation
of the photovoltaic system be completed by an electrician or qualified personnel and in
compliance with the detailed procedures in this manual.
Photovoltaic panels generate DC electricity when exposed to sunlight or other light sources.
Contact with the electrically active parts of the panel, such as terminals, can result in burns,
sparks and lethal shock whether the panel is connected or disconnected. Direct current will
arc across a gap and may cause a lethal shock when improper connection or disconnection
is made. DO NOT connect or disconnect modules when they are energized by exposure to
sunlight. Contacts and cable with frayed or exposed conductors should not be used. Do
not touch terminals while panel is exposed to light. Cover the panel face completely with
opaque material to halt the production of electricity when installing or working with panels
or wiring. Systems must be handled with extreme caution — failure to do so may
result in possible injury or death.
When panels are connected in parallel, amperages are additive. Consequently, a system
assembled from photovoltaic panels can produce high amperage, which constitute an
increased hazard.
When panels are connected in series, voltage are additive. Consequently a system assembled
from photovoltaic panels can produce high voltages, which constitute an increased hazard.
Observe all safety precautions of the battery manufacturer when handling or working
around batteries. When charging, batteries produce hydrogen gas, which is highly explo-
sive. 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 flame, cigarettes or sparks. Shield skin and eyes from battery acid.
Cable leads should not be crossed or shorted together. If shorting occurs, completely cover
the panel with a dark, light-proof material BEFORE disconnecting the cables. Modules must
not be connected or disconnected when there is a current source attached, or when the
module is exposed to light.
Ensure all connections are tight and secure. Loose connections may generate sparks, heat
and in extreme cases may catch fire. Be sure to check connections one week after installation
to ensure they are still tight.
Wear protective eye wear and appropriate clothing during installation. Use extreme cau-
tion when working with electricity and when handling and working around batteries. Use
properly insulated tools only.
Do not carry the panels by the junction box or by the electrical cables. Do not walk on the
panels. Do not handle or install modules when they are wet or in windy conditions. Do not
allow standing water to accumulate on the module. Go Power! recommends a minimum
cable bend radius equal to or greater than 40 mm (1.5").
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.