Battery Doctor 23144 User manual

Made in China exclusively for Wirthco Engineering Inc.
© 2013 Wirthco Engineering, Inc. All rights reserved.
Instruction Manual
9 Watt Charger/Maintainer
SOLAR PANEL KIT
9 Watt Charger/Maintainer
(Model #23144)
IMPORTANT!
Please read the instructions before operating and before and during the use of this product.
• It is important to observe and follow industry standard and manufacturer’s safety procedures when working
around batteries and other electrical equipment. Again, when working around batteries and other electrical
equipment, please observe industry standard and manufacturer’s safety procedures.
• To reduce the risk of electrical sparking when installing these solar chargers, please use a thick fabric to
cover the panels, ensuring the panels are producing very little charge, or do the installation in low light
conditions.
• Ensure that you are making connections in a well-ventilated area free from flammable gases or vapors.
• These panels are designed for 12 Volt battery configurations only.
• For 12 V systems, ALL connections should be in PARALLEL: Positive (+) to Positive (+), Negative (-) to Nega-
tive (-)
• DO NOT attempt to recharge NON-RECHARGEABLE batteries, as an example, NiMh batteries.
• When disconnecting your solar panel, DISCONNECT the battery LAST.
Q: Can I extend the wiring?
A: The 8’ 8” wire can be extended up to 15’ for a max of 25’, without loss of power or voltage. Ensure
proper connections.
Q: How do solar cells generate electrical power?
A: Solar panels (also known as Photovoltaic or PV) can be compared to a direct current (DC) generator
powered by the sun. When light photons of sufficient energy strike a solar cell, they push electrons free
in the structure. This forces the electrons through an external circuit (battery or direct DC load). They
then return to the other side of the solar cell to start the process all over again!
Q: Will solar work in my area?
A: Solar is universal and will work almost anywhere. Some locations are better than others. Different parts
of the world receive more sunlight than others.
Q: These panels are made of amorphous type solar cells. Could you tell me the difference between amor-
phous cells and polycrystalline cells?
A: Amorphous solar panels are often thinner than that of a polycrystalline cell. Amorphous type solar cells
are better at generating electricity in all lighting conditions.
TROUBLESHOOTING
Problem: My panel is not functioning.
Ensure that the distance of the wires is not longer that 25’ and all connections are secure.
Ensure battery is operational.
Warranty
This product is covered by a five year limited warranty. WirthCo Engineering, Inc. warrants to the original pur-
chaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for the period of one year from date
of purchase. Power output is warranted to be 80% of the original output for five years from date of purchase.
To obtain warranty service please contact WirthCo Engineering, Inc., at 1 [phone] or email sales@
wirthco.com. Proof of purchase including date, and an explanation of complaint is required for warranty
service.
For information or technical support 1 [phone]
www.wirthco.com
[email protected]
Made in China for WirthCo Engineering, Inc.

Step 2
Line up the bracket’s two holes over the solar panel bracket’s holes and use the supplied Flush Head screws
to secure the bracket to the panel.
Step 3
Repeat these steps for the other three remaining brackets if required.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Will the Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 keep my vehicle battery maintained?
A: Great question! Model #23144 compensates for natural voltage losses and key-off small instrumentation
drain by replenishing and maintaining your battery up to a maximum rate of 750m Amps in full sunlight.
Q: What types of batteries can I maintain?
A: You can maintain all types of rechargeable 12V batteries including automotive batteries, deep cycle (trac-
tion) batteries, gel-cell batteries, and heavy-duty (stationary) batteries.
Q: Can the Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 drain my battery at night?
A: No. Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 solar panels are equipped with a built-in diode, which pre-
vents reverse current.
Q: Can I overcharge my battery with the Battery Doctor’s® 9 watt Model #23144?
A: The Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 may overcharge a vehicle battery in certain situations.
We therefore recommend that you use a 10 Amp solar battery controller, sold separately, with Model
#23144.
Q: Can I start or drive my vehicle with the Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 connected to the cigarette
lighter socket (12 volt lighter adapter) or battery?
A: No. For safety reasons please make sure the panel is not in use while you are using your vehicle.
Q: Can the Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 be left outdoors?
A: Yes. This solar panel is weather resistant. However, if this solar panel is unreasonably weathered, the
warranty will become void.
Q: Will the Battery Doctor’s®9 watt Model #23144 always charge the battery through the cigarette lighter
socket (12 volt lighter adapter)?
A: Good question! In some vehicle models, the cigarette lighter socket (12 volt lighter adapter) is inactive
while the vehicle is off. Please consult your car owner’s manual. In the event that your car presents this
limitation, use the battery clamps provided with the unit in order to connect it directly to your battery.
Q: How do I know if the panel is working?
A: Use a voltmeter to measure the voltage of the panel. The voltage reading should be between 16 and 25
Volts in full sun.
Q: What does it mean if the LED does not light up on Voltage Indicator?
A: If the LED is not lit, it may mean that you are not exposing the unit to enough daylight. Please position the
solar panel to maximize its exposure to the sun. In rare instances the LED indicator may have burned out
yet the panel is still working effectively. You can test the solar panel’s output with a voltmeter.
Q: How long does it take to charge a lifeless battery?
A: If the battery seems lifeless, a larger output solar charger such as the 20 watt unit (Model #23145) is
needed. If the battery is truly dead, no charger will bring the battery back.
General Product Description
Battery Doctor’s®Model #23144 capture the energy of the sun to generate power that can charge a 12 Volt
battery for small power applications such as lighting systems or any small appliance.
The battery bank is an important component of any off-grid solar charging system, and we suggest using a
deep-cycle battery. A 12 Volt battery is not included in this kit and is sold separately.
Please note: A full battery has a voltage of 12.8 Volts. Never deeply discharge your battery; never let your bat-
tery voltage pass 11.0 volts. It will cause permanent damage to the battery. Use a DMM (Digital Multi-Meter)
to measure your battery’s voltage.
Battery Doctor’s®9 Watt Maintainer (Model #23144)
Specifications and included items:
Power Rating: Up to 9 Watts
Current: Up to 750m Amps @ 12 Volts
Includes: Alligator Clamps, 12 Volt DC Plug, 8’ 8” Wire, (4) Steel Mounting Brackets, Tilting Rods, Voltage Indica-
tor
Installation
Securely place the solar panel in the sun. Included mounting brackets and screws can be used if necessary for
permanent installation. Tilting rods are also supplied positioning the solar panel at an angle.
Installation through 12 Volt DC Plug:
Plug the included 12V DC Plug into the 12 Volt DC socket (cigarette lighter socket) in vehicle. Make sure both
ends are secure and aligned correctly. For optimal power, ensure the panel (solar cell up) is directly facing the
sun.
Installation using Battery with Alligator Clamps:
Connect the included alligator clamps correctly by matching up the red clamp which is Positive (+) to the Posi-
tive (+) terminal on your battery. Connect the black Clamp which is Negative (-) to the Negative (-) Terminal
on your battery.
WARNING: Follow this carefully to avoid bodily harm; wrong connections may cause sparking or explo-
sion.
For optimal power, ensure the panel (with the solar cell facing up) is directly facing the sun.
NOTE:
This solar panel has a built in blocking diode to prevent “reverse discharge”. Please do not use this panel while
vehicle is in use.When operating your vehicle, it is best to secure the solar panel in another secure location. The
9W Solar Panel is weather resistant and can safely operate in most weather conditions.
BRACKET INSTALLATION
To install the mounting brackets, please follow the below instructions.
Step 1
Remove the screws from the silver bracket on the back side of the solar panel as shown in the picture. This
will require a small Phillips head screwdriver. The screws that are removed will not be needed to fasten the
bracket.