Introducing the Renogy Toolbox

So you’ve purchased a new solar kit from Renogy.com, fumbled through all of the components, and before long, you’re wondering how to properly put everything together. We’ve all been there, from assembling toys to furniture, it always seems like the manufacturer makes it hard for you to put things together. At Renogy, we understand your frustrations and we’re determined to make your life easier. Recently, Renogy released the new Multi-Purpose Toolbox, the perfect companion product for any solar kit purchased at Renogy.com.

All Renogy Off-Grid Solar Kits, at a minimum, come with solar panels, MC4 Adapter Kit, a charge controller, tray cables, and mounting brackets. None of the Kits come with any extra tools or hardware for installation. That’s where the Multi-Purpose Toolbox comes in handy. The Toolbox includes the following components: one digital multi-meter, one wire stripper, one crimper, two screw drivers, a set of MC4 tools, and five pairs of MC4 male/female connectors. Each of the components in the Toolbox is important for the proper and safe installation of an Off-Grid Solar Kit. Below are brief descriptions of what each component is used for:

Philips Screwdrivers and Flathead Screwdriver: The screwdriver is a tool that can be found in any standard toolbox. Used for removing or inserting screws, the screwdriver is a common staple in American homes. The screwdrivers can come in handy when installing or removing solar panels from a rooftop or ground mount. The Z-Brackets, included with all Off-Grid Kits, contain small holes for screws to pass through for mounting.

Crimper and Stripper: The crimper and wire stripper are essential tools when repairing MC4 connectors or creating new MC4 wires. These tools can be used to strip the wire and then crimp the MC4 head to the top.

Digital Multimeter: a multimeter is a device that can measure resistance, voltage, and current. The handheld multimeter included in the Toobox is essential for performing an open circuit voltage and short circuit current test. This tool can help troubleshoot electrical issues within the solar power system.

MC4 Connectors: Each Adapter Kit includes MC4 connectors on the end of each wire. The MC4 Connectors are essential for connecting an array of solar panels, as well as connecting the panels to the charge controller. In the event that any of the MC4 Connectors are damaged, the Toolbox includes extra pieces so they can quickly and easily be repaired. Note that once the male-female sides of the MC4 Connectors have been attached, they are very difficult to separate.

MC4 Tool: The MC4 Tool is made of hard plastic and is designed to assist in disconnecting MC4 Connectors. Since the connection is so tight, they are difficult to properly disconnect without a tool. Improper disconnection may result in damage.

The Multi-Purpose Toolbox is an item that you can be sure to use while installing a Renogy Off-Grid Solar Kit. All of the tools included in the Kit can be also be used for completing other electrical projects. For a limited time, Renogy is offering the Multi-Purpose Toolbox for $59.99, regularly priced $99.99. This sale lasts from 10/27/2016-11/2/2016. Get yours before its too late! For more information about this product or the sale, visit: https://www.renogy.com/renogy-multi-purposetool-box/

EFLEX.5: Next Generation Mini Solar Panel

About two years ago Renogy released the original EFlex 14W Mini Solar Panel. Perfect for a run around town or a day on a hike, the EFlex was an instant favorite amongst Renogy customers. Some customers described the EFlex as a true “back up” charger, ideal for use when there were no spare batteries or power outlets available. The original EFlex Solar Panel, which is still available for purchase at Renogy.com, folds into a small and easy to store 6.7 x 9.3 x 1.6in square, perfect for small spaces. Since it is a lightweight product (1.3lbs), it can be attached to the exterior of a backpack or purse for convenient charging while out and about. Here at Renogy, we’re always on the move, looking to improve our products. That’s why we’ve introduced the EFLEX.5 to the store inventory.

The EFLEX.5 is a new take on the older, favorite EFlex 14W Solar Panel. The EFLEX.5 is a 5W solar panel that is both waterproof and glass free. Although the EFLEX.5 dimensions are only 10.3 x 6.3 x 0.16in, it utilizes auto-optimization charging to recover reduced power that is caused by shade. Like the original EFlex, the EFLEX.5 is perfect for on the go, convenient charging while away from a power outlet. Unlike the original EFlex, the EFLEX.5 includes two carabiners and four suction cups so the panel can be placed in the sunlight. The suction cups make window charging simple, whether at home, at school, or in a vehicle. For true off-grid charging, use the EFLEX.5 to charge a Drifter or E-GO Battery Bank and then charge your cell phone or other small electronic device!

In sum, if you’re interested in charging your small electronics while away from the grid or just away from home, the EFLEX.5 or original EFlex Solar Panel are great solutions. Also suitable for emergency charging, either of these products are ideal for storing in a safety kit or vehicle. For more information regarding either of these products, visit the following URLs:

EFLEX.5: https://www.renogy.com/renogy-e-flex5-portable-solar-panel-with-usb-port/

E-Flex 14W Panel: https://www.renogy.com/renogy-14w-e-flex-solar-power-panel-with-dual-usb-ports/

Renogy Next Generation: Phoenix Generator

Here at Renogy we’re all about making your life more convenient through renewable energy. In the past, we’ve been best known for our extensive selection of  affordable on-grid and off-grid solar panels. Throughout the years, we have learned that many of our customers, particularly the off-grid community, rely on portable gas powered generators in conjunction with solar panels. Although solar is still a big part of our business, we wanted to introduce a wider range of battery and generator products, many of which can be charged with Renogy solar panels. In early 2015, the marketing and engineering departments came up with the idea of introducing a unique, fuel-free generator to the store inventory. By late 2015, Renogy had put together a plan to produce two unique generators that would be introduced in 2016: the Lycan Powerbox and the Phoenix Generator.

The Lycan Powerbox hit the market a few weeks before the Phoenix Generator, and both have been a success. Although the spotlight has been focused on the Lycan Powerbox, the Phoenix Generator is also a portable generator, suitable for off-grid travel, power outages, and emergencies. Unlike the Lycan, the Phoenix is a solar generator and includes two built in 10W solar panels. The Phoenix can be expanded up to 120W, if the customer chooses to add a separate 100W Monocrystalline or Polycrystalline Solar Panel to his/her system. Like the Lycan, the included 16Ah Li-ion (NMC) battery is fully replaceable, giving the capability of limitless power. The Phoenix battery may be charged by the built in solar panels or via traditional power outlet or car charging socket. If the customer expects to be traveling to remote locations and cannot wait for the solar panels to recharge the battery, it would be ideal to pack a fully charged back up.

If the above features haven’t caught your attention, the Phoenix also has an attached 3W LED work flashlight, which can be especially useful during a power outage or unforeseen car repairs after sunset. To ensure that the 10W panels are providing the most efficient charge to the battery, the Phoenix has a built in MPPT charge controller and pure sine wave inverter. If you’re familiar with Renogy MPPT Charge Controllers, they have a 99.9% tracking efficiency! The Phoenix folds into a suitcase with a carrying handle and weighs in at 12.78lbs. Since this product can be charged conventionally or with solar, it doesn’t make any noise or generate fumes.

In sum, if you’re looking for an affordable, clean, and trustworthy generator, the Phoenix is just what you need. The Phoenix currently retails at $699.99 on Renogy.com, but is only available for pre-order at this time.  If you’d like to pre-order a Phoenix or just learn more about the product, please visit https://www.renogy.com/the-phoenix-generator/#tab_prd-specs.

Labor Day Sale 2016- Sept. 2nd-5th

Labor Day marks both an end to summer and the beginning of fall. The public pools close for the rest of the year and school is back in full swing. The hot steam of summer will quickly fade into a cool fall chill, complete with plenty of college and NFL football. While most of us anxiously await the cooler weather, it is important to keep in mind that solar installations are best completed during the warmer months, While the weather is still fairly warm and the days are still sunny (think September-October) there is no better time to take advantage of a great solar panel sale at Renogy. Stock up on your favorite solar panels at a great price and install them while you still can! This weekend, take advantage of 10% off all solar panels and 5% off all Starter Solar Panel Kits.

Renogy Solar Starter Kits are perfect for new and veteran solar users alike. Each Starter Kit includes your choice of Renogy Solar Panels (up to 400W), mounting Z Brackets, an MPPT or PWM Wanderer Charge Controller, an Adapter Kit, and a Tray Cable. Each Starter Kit can be easily installed on a boat, RV, or ground mount. Some alternative uses for this kit include providing power for an aquaponics system, water pump, or an outdoor shed. No matter what your intended use, it will always be easier to install and test out the your new solar power system while the weather is still mild.

If you’d like to expand on an existing system, install an on-grid system, or just purchase your components separately, right now is a great time to take advantage of the 10% off solar panel sale. All panels, including the on-grid size, are on sale this weekend. Stockpile panels for next summer or install them while the weather permits. If you’ve been to Renogy.com lately, you’d notice that we’ve added the 100W Eclipse Solar Panel to the store inventory. The Eclipse is made of the highest efficiency cells Renogy has to offer while weighing a mere 15 pounds and standing a half-foot shorter in height than standard Renogy panels. Perfect for many off-grid applications, the Eclipse Solar Panels rarely go on sale- so stock up this weekend!

Renogy wishes its customers a safe and exciting Labor Day!

Starter Kits: https://www.renogy.com/products/kits/starter-kits/
Solar Panels: https://www.renogy.com/products/components/solar-panels/

Come Visit Us: Sand Sports Super Show

If you love sand cars, super trucks, sports, and racing, you’ll be sure to enjoy a weekend at the 16^th annual Sand Sports Super Show in Costa Mesa, California. Renogy has rented out a booth to showcase their array of portable solar options and small battery chargers, perfect for camping in remote areas. The show will include displays from vendors across the United States, as well as super truck shows, raffles, and appearances by sand sport stars such as Ballistic BJ Baldwin and Ronnie Renner FMX. Many of the vendors, including Renogy, are participating in raffles and giveaway contests. Not into the sand sport scene? Other participating vendors include RV stores, battery shops, and magazine companies.

Please stop by to see us today, September 20^th, or tomorrow, September 21^st at the OC Fair and Event Center in Costa, Mesa California.  We hope to see you there!

Chaaaaarge!!!

Updated Charge Controllers at Renogy

 If you haven't heard the news yet, one of the latest updates in our Renogy store is our ViewStar charge controllers. We now offer 20 Amp and 30 Amp PWM (pulse width modulation) Viewstar charge controllers. These items are sold individually in our store and now also come ready in our RV kits and portable Solar Suitcases. 

Quick Review:

1. What is a charge controller?

 A charge controller regulates the voltage to your batteries during the charging process. It prevents your batteries from overcharging and sending too much charge to your inverter.

2. Do I need one? How does it work?

YES! Charge Controllers are an essential part of almost all power systems. Whether your power source is Solar (PV System), wind, or fuel your charge controller is meant to keep your batteries properly fed and safe for optimal long term use.  

3. So what’s the difference? 

Previous Model: Renogy 30 Amp PWM (LCD Display)

     -Ground: Positive Ground System 

·         -Supported Battery Types: Sealed (AGM) and flooded

·         -Auto Recognition for charging battery voltage

·         -Intelligent PWM charging mode

·         -Local temperature compensation

·         -Settable working modes of loads

·        -Overloading & short-circuit protection for your battery

·         -Basic battery reversed protection

·         -Detects delayed auto restart after overloading protection

·         -Protection for battery low voltage

·         -Protection for battery backfeed discharging

·         -Single Timer: option set for after dusk

Current Updated Model: View STAR 30 Amp PWM

·         -Ground: Negative Ground System

    *assures capability RV kits and all other negative ground systems

·         -Supported Battery Types: Gel, sealed (AGM), and flooded (supports extra battery life)

·         -Auto Recognition -Nominal System Voltage: 12VDC/24VDC 

·         -Excellent EMC design; high efficient PWM charging

·         -Temperature compensation with RTS- reads accurate charging voltage of parameters automatically;                   improving battery lifetime

·         -Full control of parameter setting; charging parameters can be adjusted to your liking

·         -Electronic protection from: Overcharging, over-discharging, overload, and short circuit

·         -Dot-matrix LCD screen with backlit and HMI (human-machine interface)

·         -Maximum Reverse protection: Wont power your system unless it is set up properly, granting protection             to all system components

·         -Unique dual timer function for day and night enhances the flexibility lighting systems

·         -Optional remote temperature sensor connection

 Hope this Helps!

If you have any further questions send us an email at: techsupport@renogy.com

 or call us at 

909-287-7111