FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How can my facility make money with the SS Solar Smart Trickle Charger System?
This creates an additional revenue stream. Once your facility has the solar panel installed at each unit, you can sell the charge controller to each tenant. The charge controller will be owned by the tenant, so if it’s lost or damaged the tenant can purchase a new one from the facility.
How can my facility save money by using SS Solar products?
SS Solar converts costly infrastructure and monthly electrical fees into the potential for monthly revenue by selling charge controllers and other accessories. The SS Solar trickle charger and roof mounted solar panel take the place of the traditional electrical circuit run to each unit.
Can the SS Solar Smart Trickle Charger system be installed as part of new construction?
Yes. The recommended method is to install the solar panel on the roof. Then run the low voltage wire down the wall to the inside of the unit to a junction box. Then the customer can purchase the Charge Controller and connect directly to the junction box in the unit.
Can this be installed as a retro-fit to an existing facility?
Yes. Similar to new construction, all the wires can be run in retrofitted conduit and plugged in as if it was new construction. Our trickle charging system can be easily mounted on canopies, rooftops, and poles.
Are there installation instructions for this system?
We have an install video along with others on our YouTube page here. Otherwise if you have any unanswered questions feel free to contact us!
How does this system reduce a storage facilities' liability?
Liability is created when tenants do things like running a fridge or A/C in their RV while hooked up to power, or even try to live in their RV on your property. This can cause a number of issues whether it’s flipping a breaker, causing a fire hazard, or just running up your facilities’ electric bill.
Do you need an electrician to install this system?
We always recommend that you consult with a licensed professional. The SS Solar charge controller system only uses low voltage, but you should always check your local codes. Permitting may be required in your city or state.
Is the installation cost of this system eligible for a tax credit?
Facility owners are eligible for a 30% federal tax credit with the installation of our system, just like with traditional solar.
How are tenants charged for their use of the Smart Trickle Charger system?
This is up to the facility owner, tenants can be charged in whatever way makes the most sense for your facility. Whether it is a one time charge for the purchase of the charge controller itself, a monthly fee for access to the system, etc.
Questions from SS Solar Users
Does SS Solar offer a warranty for these products?
Yes. SS Solar offers a 1 year manufacturer defect warranty on all products. If you find a product that has a manufacturer defect, please contact our Arizona office to get an RMA number before shipping.
Does the Smart Trickle Charger require a lot of maintenance?
The charge controller does not require any maintenance. We do recommend an annual cleaning to keep dirt from building up and lowering the output on the solar panels.
How quickly will this system charge a battery?
This depends on the type and size of the battery being charged and the amount of sunlight captured by the solar panel. The SS Solar charge controller has 2 charging speeds built in depending on the current state of charge of the battery. The charge controller is not designed to charge a dead battery, it is designed to maintain a battery that is already charged.
Will the Smart Trickle Charger overcharge my battery?
No. The SS Solar Smart Trickle Charger has safety features built in to prevent overcharging. Once the battery is at 100% charge, the charge controller switches to maintenance mode, and will monitor the battery and add power as needed to maintain a full charge.
What happens if I reverse the polarity on the Smart Trickle Charger?
The Smart Trickle Charger has many safety features built-in to prevent damage in the case of improper use. The system will not be damaged in a reverse polarity situation. The built-in safety features include:
- Over Voltage Protection
- Over Current Protection
- Short Circuit Protection
- Discharge Protection
- Over Charge Protection
What battery types can be charged with the SS Solar Smart Trickle Charger?
The SS Solar Smart Trickle Charger smart features allow it to effectively charge all battery types such as AGM, Gel, Deep Cycle, Sealed, Lead Acid, Flooded, and LiFePO4 lithium.
After the initial install, how do I get more charge controllers for my facility?
You will be able to order more Smart Trickle Chargers directly from us via e-mail, phone, or our shop. We recommend keeping a good amount on hand for new tenants and as replacements for tenants that lose or damage their charge controller.
Is the Smart Trickle Charger system easy for tenants to use?
Our system is relatively plug and play as it was made specifically for storage facilities. Tenants will simply connect to the junction box and clip the alligator clips to the positive and negative terminals on the battery that requires trickle charging and they are set.
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