Important Information When Using Solar Power

Using a solar panel with solar controller and solar battery is only recommended when the system needs to be operated autonomously for extended periods, and when AC power outlets are unavailable. If outlets are available, we strongly recommend to plug the BG-Counter directly into a power outlet.

If you decide to use solar panels, we strongly recommend

1. That you use Biogents’ solar charge controller.

   Explanation:

   • Different solar charge controller can have very different qualities and efficiencies.
   • The controller sold by Biogents is confirmed to be adequate for powering BG-Counter traps on solar panels.
   • The Biogents controller is pre-wired, so that we can be sure that all connections are in the right position.

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   For other non-Biogents solar controllers, wiring connections need to be installed by the users. If cables are installed wrong, the BG-Counter can be damaged. Such damage is not covered by warranty.

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2. That you use a 12 V, 90 Ah deep cycle battery (solar or marine type).

   • The battery must not be a lithium battery of any kind to avoid a fire hazard and system damage.

3. That you use at least two 50 W panels (connected in parallel), or one 100 W panel.

   Explanation:

   Using a 50 W solar panel is insufficient, leading to increased maintenance activities, and therefore costs and customer dissatisfaction.

   This problem cannot be mitigated by using a solar battery with a higher capacity. If the panels are not able to keep the battery charged, the battery will continuously discharge until there is not enough voltage to keep the counter trap running in the evening when mosquitoes are active.  Frequently discharging the battery below 50% capacity also significantly reduces battery life.

   If a solar panel is not in the full sun, or there are more cloudy days than sunny days, the output will only be 10-25% of the full sun output.  Also, the actual panel output is usually lower by 10% (or more) of the rated output depending on type of controller, ambient temperature (output decreases with an increasing temperature), tilt and other factors. Therefore, a panel rated at 50W may only produce 30-40W.

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Not Using 100W solar Panels requires additional maintenance, including manually recharging the battery. This highly increases Costs and the Chance of damaging the BG-Counter or solar controller and void the warranty!

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