231 Lake Dr. Newark, Delaware 19702 USA Tel: (302) 451-7500 Fax: (302) 451-7501 Doc. ID#: SM329WI-03
wire size is 12 AWG (4 mm2). The maximum
wire size is 8 AWG (10 mm2). For modules
that are certified up to 1000V, use TUV
approved 4.0mm2solar cable.
Junction box with Multi-Contact or Solarlok
Leads - When using optional Multi-Contact
(MC) or Solarlok (MS) connectors, there are no
user serviceable parts in the junction boxes.
Do not open the junction box or change inter-
module wiring, as all wiring connections are
performed in the factory. The MC or MS
connectors cannot be opened under load.
Modules may be connected and
disconnected when current is not flowing
through the connector, under open circuit
voltage conditions. Always observe proper
precautions when connecting or
disconnecting modules exposed to light since
hazardous voltage may be present.
Grounding- Size and earth the equipment
grounding conductor in accordance with
local requirements or the NEC. Attach the
equipment grounding conductor to the
module frame using the hole and hardware
provided. Note that a stainless steel flat
washer is used between the ground wire and
the module frame (see picture below). This
washer is used to avoid corrosion due to
dissimilar metals. Tighten the screw securely .
For optional methods of grounding a solar
module refer to GE Energy Document
“Optional Ground Methods”.
Bypass Diodes- Bypass diodes are pre-
assembled in each GE Energy module.
Typically modules are supplied with a 12 or 18
Amp diode. Do not remove these diodes.
Blocking Diodes and Charge Controllers-
Blocking diodes can prevent the solar module
from discharging the battery at night. GE
Energy modules do not include blocking
diodes. It is recommended that a charge
controller be used to prevent the batteries
from being overcharged and discharged at
night.
Cleaning
Over the life of a solar module, it is common
for dust and dirt particles to accumulate on
the surface of the module. This build up
can reduce the performance of the module as
well as contribute to the growth of moss and
molds. Normally, the build up of dust
particles will be washed away by periodic
rainfall, but in some instances mosses and
molds may appear. If significant moss or
mold growth appears on the module surface
cleaning may be required. To ensure
maximum solar module performance, GE
recommends cleaning the module surface
with a sodium percarbonate solution, similar
to the household-cleaning product
Oxiclean™.
Mixing the sodium percarbonate solution -
Sodium percarbonate is a dry white powder
that can be mixed with warm water to create
an environment-friendly oxidizing agent. The
mixture of sodium percarbonate and warm
water effectively breaks down organic matter.
Do NOT use bleach to clean solar modules, as
it is hazardous to the environment. To create
the cleaning solution, mix 1/2 cup of dry
sodium percarbonate with a gallon of warm
water (100-120° F). The mixture will retain its
cleaning power for 5 to 6 hours.
System preparation and safety precautions-
Cleaning should only be completed by the
system installer or someone with equivalent
fall protection safety training. If you are going
up onto the roof to clean the modules, ensure
that the proper amount of fall protection is
being worn. Follow all warnings at the end of
this technical bulletin.
Applying the cleaning solution to the
modules - Apply the cleaning mixture to the
modules with a clean lawn sprayer. The
sprayer should have a large enough chamber
to hold the entire warm water / sodium
percarbonate solution, it should not be a hose
end sprayer. Once the cleaning mixture has
been applied, let the solution stand on the
modules between 20 and 30 minutes. If
necessary, scrub the module surface to
remove any remaining particles. Thoroughly
rinse the module surface to remove the
cleaning solution. Key points:
• This procedure should only be completed by
the system installer or someone with
equivalent fall protection safety training.
• Fall protection should be worn at all times
while cleaning any modules on a roof-
mounted system.
• Do not drop, allow objects to fall on, stand
or step on solar modules. Do not walk, lean,
sit or rest heavy objects on solar panels.
• Solar modules have a protective glass front.
Broken solar module glass is an electrical
safety hazard (electric shock and fire). These
modules cannot be repaired and must be
replaced immediately. If you have a broken
module turn your system off. If your solar
module is broken do not clean.
• Do not touch the solar modules or the
mounting structures with your bare hands
during the cleaning process. When these
surfaces are exposed to sunlight they can
become extremely hot. Protective gloves
should be worn when touching the system
components.
• Sharp edges may exist on the components.
Protective gloves should be worn while
cleaning the solar array system.
• Exposing the anodized aluminum frame to
the sodium percarbonate cleaning solution
for longer than 10 hours may cause surface
staining on the aluminum.
• The sodium percarbonate cleaning solution
attacks organic matter and should be kept
from directly contacting plants. In the event
the cleaning solution comes in direct contact
with plants that you intend to keep,
thoroughly rinse the plant leaves to remove
the solution.
Performance
Refer to the attached spreadsheet for
performance information. Detailed product
information can be found on the GE Solar
website at:
www.gepower.com/solar
Electric Shock and Burn Hazard
Do not attempt to clean a module with a
broken glass cover or a perforated
backsheet. Such a module can present a
serious shock hazard.
