Do you know how to a solar panel for a gate opener? In this article I will show you Mighty Mule solar panel installation processes.
A step-by-step do it yourself guide to learn how to install a solar panel on a Mighty Mule gate opener. It also includes valuable information to get the most out of your solar panel.
Most modern gate openers have a backup battery. (In this way, Mighty Mule gate opener battery is our first choice.). That way, the gate opener keeps working in case of a power failure. However, over time, the backup battery tends to discharge. Therefore, a solar panel is also necessary.
Solar panels are environmentally friendly and easy to install. In this buying guide you’ll learn how to install a solar panel by yourself. That way, you won’t have to spend money on professional installers.
What is Mighty Mule?
Mighty Mule is a well-known brand of garage door and gate openers. It’s part of the American conglomerate Nortek Security & Control LLC. Currently, this company also produces alarms, sensors, remote controls and other smart-home devices.
All Mighty Mule products can be remotely controlled through an app. That’s one of the main reasons why Mighty Mule openers are so popular.
Mighty Mule Solar Panel Installation Instructions
Installing a Mighty Mule solar panel is very easy. You just need to follow these simple steps:
Step 1
First of all, lead a pair of bolts through the corresponding channels on the left and right side of the panel. The bolts must go through the frame and protrude through the opposite side.
Step 2
Then, place the curved bar between the protruding bolts on either side of the frame.
Step 3
After that, place the pipe clamps above the bolts to hold the bar in place. Finally, secure the clamp with nuts. Make sure to apply enough pressure so that the bar doesn’t wobble after installation.
Step 4
Then, choose the best place to locate the panel. The panel should face due south following the path of the sun. Make sure the panel is in a clear space away from objects that can block sunrays.
Step 6
After that, fix the panel to a wooden post using a pair of pipe clamps and four lag bolts. In case you’re fixing the panel to a metal tube, you’ll need to buy the required hardware to get the job done. The panel should be placed at least 10 feet away from the control box to fully receive sunrays.
Step 7
Then, connect the solar panel to the control box. First of all, make sure the control box is off. Then, connect each wire to the corresponding terminals on the box. Usually, the red wire goes to the positive terminal and the black wire goes to the negative terminal.
Step 8
Finally, turn on the control box. You’ll need to wait at least eight hours for the solar panel to fully charge the backup battery.
Notes:
- From time to time, clean the panel surface with a damp cloth. Also, make sure to remove the dust from the surface with a soft brush before using the cloth. Dirty solar panels are less efficient and may take longer to charge the battery.
- In case you’re using more than one solar panel, you’ll have to connect them in parallel to the control box. To do that, you’ll have to buy additional wire. Make sure you buy the same kind of wire the panels use.
Wrap Up
As you can see, installing a Mighty Mule solar panel isn’t as difficult as it seems. All instructions are included in the product. Also, you can download the installation manual on the official website of the brand.
Read all the instructions before getting started. If you have questions, you can contact the professional staff from Mighty Mule by phone or email. Make sure to choose a sunny and clear space for your panel. If you follow each of these tips, you’ll certainly get the best results.