Low output from older, but unused panels

[bcroe]

I would expect the voltage to increase with cold, the current
not to change much. That current is pretty low, but do be
sure you are really getting full sun. The slighest haze or
cloud will have considerable effect, and the slighest smoke
(from all those fires) is even more devastating.

I would want to at least have another comparable orientation
panel to see how it is doing, before writing off the used panels.
good luck, Bruce Roe

[paulgareau]

I think the full-rated quantity of amps only happens when the panels are cold. Winter makes them produce more.

They may need to experience -20F to produce the full amount.

Thanks. All the testing procedures I've seen say that the multimeter should show the isc or something very close. Considering it was right around freezing when I tested, I would expect better output.

[organic farmer]

I think the full-rated quantity of amps only happens when the panels are cold. Winter makes them produce more.

They may need to experience -20F to produce the full amount.

[paulgareau]

Hi all. I purchased some second-hand but never installed panels a few years ago and they've been in storage since then. They are ET Solar 300 watt, model ET-P672300WB. I took a few out to test them yesterday and was getting the correct voltage, but only 5 amps out of the rated 8.72 (isc) - the output was very consistent between the panels I tested. The panels were not shaded and were oriented towards the sun. Because it's early December, the winter solstice is approaching. Is the output I'm seeing expected for the time of year or is there a problem with the panels? TIA.

Edit: I'm in New Hampshire, USA