Thunderbolt Solar Panel: 100 Watt Owner’s Manual & Safety Instructions

The Thunderbolt 57325 100 Watt Solar Panel is a powerful and efficient way to harness the energy of the sun. However, it is important to follow all safety instructions and precautions to ensure safe and effective use. This owner’s manual and safety instructions provide detailed information on installation, setup, wiring, operation, and maintenance of the solar panel. The manual includes important safety symbols and definitions, as well as warnings and cautions to prevent electric shock, fire, and serious injury. It is crucial to read and follow all instructions carefully to avoid potential hazards. The manual also provides information on battery precautions, service precautions, and cleaning and maintenance procedures. Whether you are using the solar panel for temporary or permanent setup, this manual is an essential guide to ensure proper installation and safe operation of the Thunderbolt Solar Panel.

THUNDERBOLT 57325 100 Watt Solar Panel Owner’s Manual

WARNING SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS This is the safety alert symbol. It is used to alert you to potential personal injury hazards. Obey all safety messages that follow this symbol to avoid possible injury or death. DANGER Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. WARNING Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. CAUTION Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in minor or moderate injury. NOTICE Addresses practices not related to personal injury.

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

WARNING Read all safety warnings and all instructions. Failure to follow the warnings and instructions may result in electric shock, fire and/or serious injury. Save all warnings and instructions for future reference.

Installation Precautions

1. Exercise special caution if working on roof or another high location. Keep proper footing and balance at all times. Follow ladder supplier’s precautions whenever working near or on a ladder.
2. Install all sensitive electrical components (including wiring connections, regulator, and battery) inside a weatherproof enclosure to prevent electric shock.
3. Do not wire multiple panels in series. If you need to connect two or more solar panels together, this work must be done by a qualified electrician unless they are connected through a regulator.
4. This solar panel is not designed for tie-in to a grid. Only a licensed electrician and a licensed building contractor can safely design and implement a grid tie-in system. Any grid tie-in system must meet all applicable building and electrical codes, and must meet standards established by the area power company. Improper grid tie-in can result in electrocution, fire, and other serious personal injury and property damage. An incorrectly installed grid tie-in system can cause feedback voltage, resulting in electrocution of electrical utility workers.
5. Do not stand on or otherwise apply pressure to panel.
6. Handle solar panel with care, edges may be sharp.
7. Do not focus light on panel.
8. Install components with enough space to allow proper cooling.
9. This product may occasionally produce more current and/or voltage than its rated output. Increase output ratings by 25% when determining component required voltage and amperage ratings. Refer to Section 690-8 of the National Electrical Code for an additional multiplying factor of 125 percent (80 percent derating) which may apply.
10. Panel must be connected using UL listed outdoor rated wire of the correct thickness (gauge) for the amperage rating and length (see warning number also). Follow the guidelines in the chart below:
11. Do not attach panel to power grid without proper regulator, inverter, and/or charge controller.
12. Install and use according to applicable National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
13. This panel is not rated for use as fire-resistant roofing. If installing on a roof, install only over a fire resistant roof covering rated for the application.
14. Verify that installation surface has no hidden utility lines before drilling or driving screws.
15. Install only according to these instructions. Improper installation can create hazards.
16. Do not leave this solar panel attached to an automobile or trailer while it is in motion.
17. Handle panel with care. Glass may break or a sharp edge may be exposed during movement.
18. Keep installation area clean and well lit.
19. Install out of reach of children.
20. Keep bystanders out of the area during installation.
21. Do not install when tired or when under the influence of drugs or medication.
22. This should be used to charge a 12V battery using a charge controller (sold separately).
23. The warnings, precautions, and instructions discussed in this instruction manual cannot cover all possible conditions and situations that may occur. It must be understood by the operator that common sense and caution are factors which cannot be built into this product, but must be supplied by the operator.

Battery Precautions

1. Wear splash-resistant ANSI-approved safety goggles and electrically insulated gloves while working near batteries.
2. Use an appropriate charge controller whenever connected to battery.
3. Charge, store, and maintain batteries according to supplier’s instructions.

Service Precautions

1. Before service, maintenance, or cleaning:
   • Dry solar panels and outdoor wiring thoroughly while wearing electrically insulated gloves.
   • Cover all solar panels with an opaque cover, such as a blanket.
   • Disconnect all solar panels.
   • Disconnect all batteries.
2. Do not service during rain, fog, orany other wet/humid weather.
3. Do not stand on or otherwise apply pressure to panel.
4. Do not allow children to play with or near this or electrical components.
5. Inspect at least monthly; do not use if damaged, parts are loose, water is found inside the housing, electrical insulation is cracked or damaged, or connections are loose.
6. Maintain product labels and nameplates. These carry important safety information. If unreadable or missing, contact Harbor Freight Tools for a replacement.

Set Up Instructions

Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS section at the beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product. WARNING TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ACCIDENTAL OPERATION: Make sure that the Power Switch/Trigger is in the off-position and unplug the tool from its electrical outlet before performing any procedure in this section. Note: For additional information regarding the parts listed in the following pages, refer to the Assembly Diagram near the end of this manual.

Installation

Location

1. Locate the Solar Panel where it will receive full, unobstructed sunlight, especially during midday. Nearby trees or tall plants will drop debris, requiring the panels to be cleaned more frequently.
2. The installation location for the Solar Panel, charge controller/regulator, and batteries must be inaccessible to children to prevent electric shock. Build a childproof enclosure if needed.
3. Install the charge controller/regulator and batteries in a weatherproof enclosure with proper ventilation.

Setup This Solar Panel can be setup temporarily or permanently.

1. Use the two pull-out Mounting Stands on the rear panel for temporary setup. Note: Avoid temporary set up on windy or stormy days.
2. For permanent setup, use appropriate mounting hardware (sold separately) to connect the Solar Panel to selected surface using the predrilled holes in the corners of the panel. Do not drill additional holes in panel.
3. Angle the face of the Solar Panel toward true south according to chart below:

Latitude

|

Solar Panel Angle

---|---

0-4°

|

10°

5-20°

|

Latitude + 5°

21-45°

|

Latitude + 10°

46-64°

|

Latitude + 15°

65° or more

|

80°

Wiring Note: Only a licensed electrician and a licensed building contractor can safely design and implement a grid tie-in system. Any grid tie- in system must meet all applicable building and electrical codes, and must meet standards established by the area power company.

1. Run wires from panels, through weatherproof grommets and into enclosure where power inverter is located. Use wires of the proper size and rating and use twist connectors (not included) to connect wires.
2. Connect battery to a power inverter according to inverter’s instructions. CAUTION! Inverter must be properly rated and designed for this type of connection and power supply.
3. Secure all connections using terminals, or solder all wire splices to ensure good connections.
4. Weatherproof all connections and route the wire in a way that it will not be torn loose from the panel.

Operating Instructions

Read the ENTIRE IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION section at the beginning of this manual including all text under subheadings therein before set up or use of this product. Note: Performance of the Solar Panels will vary dependent on site location, angle of the panels in relation to the arc of the sun, and available sunlight.

Operation

1. Use the J-Plug Cable on the back of the Solar Panel to connect to an appropriate 12VDC Charge Controller (sold separately). Note: Solar Panel shown in temporary setup with stands pulled out.
2. Angle the solar panel towards the sun. Turn it southward for the northern hemisphere.
3. If setting up the Solar Panel temporarily and charging is complete, disconnect the Solar Panel output. Store Solar Panel in a dry, indoor area out of reach of children.

Maintenance and Servicing

Procedures not specifically explained in this manual must be performed only by a qualified technician. WARNING TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK: Before service, maintenance or cleaning:

• Dry solar panels and outdoor wiring thoroughly while wearing electrically insulated gloves.
• Cover solar panels with an opaque cover.
• Disconnect all solar panels and batteries.

TO PREVENT SERIOUS INJURY FROM ELECTRIC SHOCK OR CUTS: Do not use damaged solar panel. If wiring insulation is damaged or weathered, glass is cracked, or housing is opened, have the problem corrected before further use. Note: It is normal to see up to 20% degradation in Mono-crystalline solar panel performance within the first 6 months before the Mono-crystalline stabilizes.

Cleaning, Maintenance, and Lubrication

Clean and inspect the Solar Panel system MONTHLY, or more frequently to maintain peak efficiency.

1. Wear electrically insulated gloves and ANSI-approved safety goggles. Dry Solar Panels and outdoor wiring thoroughly.
2. Cover solar panels with opaque cover.
3. Disconnect all solar panels and batteries.
4. Clean solar panels and connectors with damp soft cloth. Dry thoroughly. Do not clean with brushes, soap or solvents.
5. Inspect general condition of Solar Panel system (panels, batteries, controllers, and mounting). Check for loose hardware, wiring insulation damage or weathering, cracked glass, open housing, cracked or broken parts, loose or corroded contacts, and any other condition that may affect its safe operation.
6. Maintain batteries according to supplier’s instructions.

Adjustment for Permanent Setup To increase efficiency:

1. In the Winter, increase the panel’s angle by 10°.
2. In the Summer, decrease the angle by up to 10°.
3. In Spring and Fall, keep the angle recommended on .

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR HAS PROVIDED THE PARTS LIST AND ASSEMBLY DIAGRAM IN THIS MANUAL AS A REFERENCE TOOL ONLY. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER OR DISTRIBUTOR MAKES ANY REPRESENTATION OR WARRANTY OF ANY KIND TO THE BUYER THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO MAKE ANY REPAIRS TO THE PRODUCT, OR THAT HE OR SHE IS QUALIFIED TO REPLACE ANY PARTS OF THE PRODUCT. IN FACT, THE MANUFACTURER AND/OR DISTRIBUTOR EXPRESSLY STATES THAT ALL REPAIRS AND PARTS REPLACEMENTS SHOULD BE UNDERTAKEN BY CERTIFIED AND LICENSED TECHNICIANS, AND NOT BY THE BUYER. THE BUYER ASSUMES ALL RISK AND LIABILITY ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER REPAIRS TO THE ORIGINAL PRODUCT OR REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO, OR ARISING OUT OF HIS OR HER INSTALLATION OF REPLACEMENT PARTS THERETO.

Parts List and Diagram

Part

|

Description

|

Qty

---|---|---

1

|

Solar Panel

|

1

2

|

Junction Box

|

1

3

|

J-Plug cable

|

1

4

|

Corner Guard

|

4

5

|

Mounting Stand

|

2

6

|

SAE + DC 8055 (8mm) Adapter

|

1

Record Product’s Serial Number Here: Note: If product has no serial number, record month and year of purchase instead. Note: Some parts are listed and shown for illustration purposes only, and are not available individually as replacement parts. Specify UPC 792363573252 when ordering parts.

Specifications

Rated Output

|

18 VDC / 100 W / 5.56A

---|---

Note: Performance will vary depending on temperature, brightness and time of sun exposure. Summer production will be higher than in the winter. Bright sunny days will generate higher output than cloudy days.

Limited 90 Day Warranty

Harbor Freight Tools Co. makes every effort to assure that its products meet high quality and durability standards, and warrants to the original purchaser that this product is free from defects in materials and workmanship for the period of 90 days from the date of purchase. This warranty does not apply to damage due directly or indirectly, to misuse, abuse, negligence or accidents, repairs or alterations outside our facilities, criminal activity, improper installation, normal wear and tear, or to lack of maintenance. We shall in no event be liable for death, injuries to persons or property, or for incidental, contingent, special or consequential damages arising from the use of our product. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation of exclusion may not apply to you. THIS WARRANTY IS EXPRESSLY IN LIEU OF ALL OTHER WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING THE WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS. To take advantage of this warranty, the product or part must be returned to us with transportation charges prepaid. Proof of purchase date and an explanation of the complaint must accompany the merchandise. If our inspection verifies the defect, we will either repair or replace the product at our election or we may elect to refund the purchase price if we cannot readily and quickly provide you with a replacement. We will return repaired products at our expense, but if we determine there is no defect, or that the defect resulted from causes not within the scope of our warranty, then you must bear the cost of returning the product. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

SPECIFICATION

• Exercise special caution if working on roof or another high location.
• Install all sensitive electrical components (including wiring connections, regulator, and battery) inside a weatherproof enclosure to prevent electric shock.
• Do not wire multiple panels in series. If you need to connect two or more solar panels together, this work must be done by a qualified electrician unless they are connected through a regulator.
• This solar panel is not designed for tie-in to a grid. Only a licensed electrician and a licensed building contractor can safely design and implement a grid tie-in system.
• Do not stand on or otherwise apply pressure to panel.
• Handle solar panel with care, edges may be sharp.
• Do not focus light on panel.
• Install components with enough space to allow proper cooling.
• Panel must be connected using UL listed outdoor rated wire of the correct thickness (gauge) for the amperage rating and length.
• Do not attach panel to power grid without proper regulator, inverter, and/or charge controller.
• Install and use according to applicable National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.
• This panel is not rated for use as fire-resistant roofing.
• Verify that installation surface has no hidden utility lines before drilling or driving screws.
• Install only according to these instructions.
• Do not leave this solar panel attached to an automobile or trailer while it is in motion.
• Handle panel with care.
• Keep installation area clean and well lit.
• Install out of reach of children.
• Keep bystanders out of the area during installation.
• Do not install when tired or when under the influence of drugs or medication.
• This should be used to charge a 12V battery using a charge controller (sold separately).

Battery Precautions|

• Wear splash-resistant ANSI-approved safety goggles and electrically insulated gloves while working near batteries.
• Use an appropriate charge controller whenever connected to battery.
• Charge, store, and maintain batteries according to supplier’s instructions.

Service Precautions|

• Dry solar panels and outdoor wiring thoroughly while wearing electrically insulated gloves.
• Cover all solar panels with an opaque cover, such as a blanket.
• Disconnect all solar panels.
• Disconnect all batteries.
• Do not service during rain, fog, or any other wet/humid weather.
• Do not stand on or otherwise apply pressure to panel.
• Do not allow children to play with or near this or electrical components.
• Inspect at least monthly; do not use if damaged, parts are loose, water is found inside the housing, electrical insulation is cracked or damaged, or connections are loose.
• Maintain product labels and nameplates.

Set Up Instructions|

• Locate the Solar Panel where it will receive full, unobstructed sunlight, especially during midday.
• The installation location for the Solar Panel, charge controller/regulator, and batteries must be inaccessible to children to prevent electric shock.
• Use the two pull-out Mounting Stands on the rear panel for temporary setup.
• For permanent setup, use appropriate mounting hardware (sold separately) to connect the Solar Panel to selected surface using the predrilled holes in the corners of the panel.
• Angle the face of the Solar Panel toward true south according to chart provided in the manual.
• Connect battery to a power inverter according to inverter’s instructions.

Operating Instructions|

• Use the J-Plug Cable on the back of the Solar Panel to connect to an appropriate 12VDC Charge Controller (sold separately).
• Angle the solar panel towards the sun.
• If setting up the Solar Panel temporarily and charging is complete, disconnect the Solar Panel output.

FAQS

Can I leave the solar panel attached to an automobile or trailer while it is in motion?

No, you should not leave this solar panel attached to an automobile or trailer while it is in motion.

Can I use this panel as fire-resistant roofing?

No, this panel is not rated for use as fire-resistant roofing. If installing on a roof, install only over a fire-resistant roof covering rated for the application.

Can I attach the panel to the power grid without a regulator, inverter, and/or charge controller?

No, you should not attach the panel to the power grid without a regulator, inverter, and/or charge controller.

Can I wire multiple panels in series?

No, you should not wire multiple panels in series. If you need to connect two or more solar panels together, this work must be done by a qualified electrician unless they are connected through a regulator.

What is the maximum wattage of the Thunderbolt 57325 Solar Panel?

The Thunderbolt 57325 Solar Panel has a maximum wattage of 100 watts.

Can I set up the solar panel temporarily?

Yes, you can set up the solar panel temporarily using the two pull-out mounting stands on the rear panel.

What is the recommended angle for the solar panel?

The recommended angle for the solar panel depends on your latitude. Please refer to the chart in the manual for specific angles.

What should I do before servicing, maintaining, or cleaning the solar panel?

Before servicing, maintaining, or cleaning the solar panel, you should dry solar panels and outdoor wiring thoroughly while wearing electrically insulated gloves. Cover all solar panels with an opaque cover, such as a blanket. Disconnect all solar panels and batteries.

What should I do if I need additional information regarding the parts listed in the manual?

If you need additional information regarding the parts listed in the manual, refer to the Assembly Diagram near the end of the manual.

What should I do if the solar panel is damaged or parts are loose?

If the solar panel is damaged or parts are l

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)

Read User Manual Online (PDF format)  >>

Download This Manual (PDF format)

Download this manual  >>