APEX MARINE: Solar Owner's Manual (11.21.2013) Page 2
OPERATION:
Before turning the system on, make sure that all wiring is secure and free of scrapes and
cuts. Turn the system on using the ON/OFF breaker. If the solar charge controller is visible and
there is adequate light on the panel(s), the controller will have a solid green status light
indicated the system is on and charging. There will also be a Red/Yellow/Green light to indicate
the battery level.
The controller is a fully automatic, 4 stage PWM battery charger (bulk, absorption, float
& equalize) with temperature compensation. The controller also has a night mode which will
shut itself off when there is not enough light on the solar panel for charging. The solar
controller may be left on 24/7 during the boating season. Refer to the solar charge controller
manual for additional description of its operation.
To turn the solar system off, switch the ON/OFF breaker to the OFF position. The solar
charger will be shut off, although note that THE WIRES FROM THE SOLAR PANEL MAY STILL
HAVE LIVE VOLTAGE ON THEM.
SHADING:
The performance of the solar system will decrease when the solar panels are shaded.
All shading from surrounding trees and structures should be avoided or reduced if possible.
Docking a Paddle Qwest with the stern facing North should be avoided because of possible
heavy shading from the bimini top.
STORAGE:
Turn the solar system off before disconnecting and removing the batteries. The system
should be left off for storage as well. The solar panel(s) are rated for outdoor use and may be
left exposed year around. It is recommended but not required that the panel(s) get cleaned
and shrunk with the boat.
SOLAR SOFT TOP:
The soft top that the solar panels mount to cantilevers down for trailering and storage.
It is spring assisted and no wiring needs to be disconnected for use. Each of the four arms of
the top must be pinned in either the up or trailering position.
MAINTENANCE AND CARE:
There is no required maintenance to do to the solar charging system other than turning
it off when connecting or disconnecting batteries. Periodically cleaning the glass surface of the
solar panel(s) of dust and debris with water and a soft cloth will keep it operating at peak
performance. Use a mild, non-abrasive cleaning agent if needed.
WARRANTY:
The Solar Charge Controller comes with a 5 year manufacturer warranty. The Solar panel
has a 10 year manufacturer material and workmanship warranty and a 25 year power output
warranty.