© 2018 SunPower Corporation. All rights reserved. Specifications included in this manual are subject to change without notice.
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SunPower recommends using the same brand connector in a PV system as is supplied with the module. Currently approved compatible connectors found on
SunPower modules are: Tyco Solarlok PV4 and PV4S, Yukita (YS-254/YS-255) and Multicontact MC4 (PVKBT4/6II, PVKST4/6II).
5.0
Module Mounting
The SunPower Limited Warranty for PV Modules is contingent upon modules being mounted in accordance with the requirements described in this section.
5.1
Site Considerations
SunPower modules should only be mounted in locations that meet the following requirements:
Operating Temperature:
All SunPower modules must only be mounted in environments that ensure they will operate within the following temperatures:
Operating Temperature range
-40° C to +85° C
-40° F to +185° F
Care should be taken to provide ventilation behind or underneath the modules, especially in hot environments. In cold environments of less than 0° C (32° F), care
should be taken to avoid flexing of the panel or impact to the panel.
Excluded Operating Environments
Certain operating environments are not recommended for SunPower modules and are excluded from the SunPower Limited Warranty. These include but are not
limited to flooding, immersion in water or other fluids, contact with liquids with pH greater than 8.5 or less than 6.5, hail and other projectiles, fire, meteorites, lava
flow and volcanic eruptions. SunPower flex modules can withstand high wind environments when securely attached to a substrate such that the module does not flap
with the wind.
5.2
Mounting Configurations
Modules integrated mounted over a roofing system must be mounted over a fire-resistant roof covering rated for the application. Modules may be mounted at any
angle, from horizontal to vertical. To reduce soiling, modules should be mounted at a minimum of 10 degrees.
To prevent water from entering the junction box, which could present a safety hazard, modules should be oriented with the junction box in the uppermost position.
The junction box should not be mounted in a depression when mounted on a flat surface. Note that the junction box manufacturer rates this junction box with an
ingress protection rating of IP67.
Modules may be mounted using the grommet holes as attachment points or using an adhesive on the panel backside. SunPower makes no claim to preferred
attachment method nor to the safety of the attachment.
5.3
Module Handling
Use gloves when handling modules. The module is sensitive to oils and abrasive surfaces, which may lead to scratches and irregular soiling. Do not place modules such
that the module encounters abrasive surfaces and minimize any contact with the module in general. Do not place anything on the modules, even for a moment.
Never lift or move the module using the cables or the junction box under any circumstances. Remove any fingerprints by washing the module as described in Section
6.0 below.
Modules should be handled without excess bending or bending at sharp angles or twisting of the panels. The panels are designed to withstand a 30-degree bend in
the panel, top to bottom where the top is the side with the junction box. This is approximately 8cm of deflection. Additionally, no sharp objects should be placed in
contact with the panel. This can result in puncture of the panel and/or damage to the solar cells or connectors in the panel, resulting in decreased power output and
potentially a safety hazard, see section 2.
Junction boxes, cables and connectors should never be subjected to a sharp or blunt force. This can result in a broken or cracked junction box, cable or connectors
such that the panel should not be used. See section 2.
6.0
Maintenance and Cleaning
Trained SunPower dealer or trained SunPower support personnel should inspect all modules annually for safe electrical connections, sound mechanical connections,
and freedom from corrosion.
Periodic cleaning of module has resulted in improved performance levels, especially in regions with low levels of annual precipitation; therefore, SunPower
recommends periodic cleaning of the modules.
To clean a module, wash its surface with potable, non-heated water. Normal water pressure is adequate. Some fingerprints, stains, or accumulations of dirt on the
surface may be removed with over-the-counter cleaners (such as Windex
®
or equivalent), or with a 3% soap-and-water solution. Wet the module surface with the
solution, let it stand for five minutes, and then wet them again and use a soft sponge or seamless cloth to wipe the surface in a circular motion. Do not use harsh
industrial-strength cleaning materials such as aggressive chemicals, scouring powder, steel wool, scrapers, blades, or other sharp instruments to clean the module.
Use of such materials will void the product warranty.
DANGER!
•
SunPower does not recommend connecting these panels in parallel without proper system and safety protection.
•
Connecting panels in parallel will double the current output of the panels. DC Currents may be greater than 12 amps for 100 W, 110 W
and 170 W, and greater than 6amps for 50 W, in high illumination conditions (>1000 W/m
2
).
•
If shading occurs without additional electronic components, such as a blocking diode, the by-pass diodes may be damaged leading to
further panel damage and unsafe conditions including fire.
•
If Paralleled panels are attached to a battery for charging, the high current may cause damage to the battery and subsequent safety
issues.
•
The charging characteristics of any battery should always be checked for compatibility with the current and voltage output of the panels
prior to use.
