Are you frustrated because your Goal Zero Sherpa 100 power station isn’t charging? It’s incredibly annoying to have a reliable power source fail, especially when you’re relying on it for camping, emergencies, or off-grid adventures. The good news is, a quick reset often resolves the issue, getting you back up and running in minutes.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to diagnose and fix your Goal Zero Sherpa 100’s charging problem. We’ll cover common causes, multiple troubleshooting steps – from simple checks to more advanced solutions – and preventative measures to keep your power station in top condition. By the end of this article, you’ll have the confidence and knowledge to get your Sherpa 100 charging reliably again.
Common Causes of Goal Zero Sherpa 100 Not Charging
Several factors can prevent your Goal Zero Sherpa 100 from charging. Here’s a breakdown of the most frequent culprits:
Faulty Power Adapter
The power adapter is the most common point of failure. Damage to the adapter itself, or a frayed cable, can interrupt the charging process.
Damaged Charging Cable
A damaged or worn charging cable can prevent power from reaching the Sherpa 100. Even a small break in the wire can halt charging.
Dirty Charging Ports
Dust, debris, or corrosion within the charging port can create a poor connection, hindering the charging process.
Low Temperature
Lithium-ion batteries, like the one in the Sherpa 100, have a limited temperature range for charging. Extremely cold temperatures can prevent charging altogether.
Battery Management System (BMS) Issues
The BMS protects the battery from damage. Sometimes, it can incorrectly identify a problem and halt charging as a safety precaution.
Internal Battery Fault
Though less common, the battery itself could be faulty, preventing it from accepting a charge. This usually indicates a more serious issue.
How to Fix Goal Zero Sherpa 100 Not Charging
Here are several methods to troubleshoot and fix your Sherpa 100 charging issue, progressing from the simplest solutions to more complex ones.
Method 1: Basic Checks & Reset (Quick Fix)
This is the first thing you should try, as it resolves a surprising number of charging problems.
Diagnosing the Issue: Confirm the power outlet is working with another device. Visually inspect the power adapter and cable for any obvious damage.
Fix Steps:
1. Power Cycle: Turn off the Sherpa 100 completely. Disconnect the power adapter.
2. Reset: Press and hold the power button for 30-60 seconds. This performs a soft reset, clearing minor software glitches.
3. Reconnect: Plug the power adapter back into a working outlet and connect it to the Sherpa 100.
4. Observe: Check if the charging indicator lights illuminate.
Testing: Allow the Sherpa 100 to charge for at least 30 minutes and monitor the battery level indicator.
Method 2: Inspect and Replace Cables & Adapter
If the reset doesn’t work, focus on the physical connections.
Diagnosing the Issue: Examine the charging cable for cuts, fraying, or bent connectors. Test the adapter with a multimeter to confirm it’s outputting the correct voltage (18V).
Fix Steps:
1. Cable Check: Replace the charging cable with a known-good cable.
2. Adapter Test: If you have a compatible adapter, try using it to charge the Sherpa 100.
3. Port Inspection: Carefully use a can of compressed air to clean out the charging port on the Sherpa 100.
Testing: After each step, attempt to charge the Sherpa 100 and observe if the charging indicator lights up.
Method 3: Temperature Considerations
Extreme temperatures can impact charging.
Diagnosing the Issue: Is the Sherpa 100 exposed to very cold or very hot conditions?
Fix Steps:
1. Move to Room Temperature: Bring the Sherpa 100 indoors to a temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 113°F (45°C).
2. Allow to Warm/Cool: Give the unit time to reach room temperature before attempting to charge it.
Testing: Once at room temperature, attempt to charge the Sherpa 100.
Method 4: BMS Reset (Advanced)
This is a more advanced step and should be attempted if other methods fail. Caution: Incorrectly performing this could potentially damage the unit.
Diagnosing the Issue: If the Sherpa 100 powers on but won’t charge, the BMS might be the culprit.
Fix Steps:
1. Fully Discharge (If Possible): If the Sherpa 100 has some charge, run it until it shuts off due to low battery.
2. Connect to Charger: Immediately after it shuts off, connect the power adapter.
3. Monitor: The BMS may attempt to recalibrate. This process can take several hours. Do not interrupt the charging process.
Testing: Monitor the charging indicator lights. If the unit begins charging, allow it to fully charge. If it still doesn’t charge, professional help may be needed.
Ways to Prevent Future Charging Issues
Proactive maintenance can significantly reduce the risk of future charging problems.
- Store Properly: Store the Sherpa 100 in a cool, dry place, away from extreme temperatures.
- Use the Original Adapter: Always use the Goal Zero-supplied power adapter. Using an incompatible adapter can damage the unit.
- Protect the Ports: Keep the charging port clean and free of debris.
- Regular Charging: Periodically charge the Sherpa 100, even when not in use, to keep the battery healthy. Aim for at least once every 3-6 months.
- Avoid Deep Discharge: While occasional full discharges are okay, avoid consistently draining the battery completely.
Pro Tips
- Check the Display: The Sherpa 100’s display can provide error codes. Consult the Goal Zero user manual for interpretations.
- Don’t Overload: Avoid connecting too many devices simultaneously, which can strain the BMS.
- USB Charging: Test the USB ports to see if they are functioning. If they are, the issue is likely with the AC charging input.
- Firmware Updates: Check the Goal Zero website for firmware updates that may address charging issues.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Don’t leave the Sherpa 100 in direct sunlight while charging or storing.
Professional Help
- When to Seek Help: If you’ve tried all the troubleshooting steps and the Sherpa 100 still won’t charge, it’s time to contact Goal Zero support.
- Finding a Service Provider: Visit the Goal Zero website (https://www.goalzero.com/) to find authorized service centers.
- Cost Ranges: Repair costs can vary depending on the issue. A battery replacement can range from $150-$300, while a BMS repair might be less expensive.
- Warranty: Check your Sherpa 100’s warranty status. Goal Zero offers warranties on their products, which may cover repairs or replacements.
FAQ
Q: Why is my Goal Zero Sherpa 100 getting hot while charging?
A: Some warmth is normal during charging, but excessive heat indicates a problem. Disconnect the charger and let it cool down. If it continues to overheat, contact Goal Zero support.
Q: Can I use a different USB-C charger to charge my Sherpa 100?
A: While the Sherpa 100 has a USB-C port, it’s primarily for device output, not input. It’s best to use the included AC adapter for charging.
Q: How long does it take to fully charge the Sherpa 100?
A: Typically, it takes around 6-8 hours to fully charge the Sherpa 100 using the included AC adapter.
Q: My Sherpa 100 flashes a red light. What does that mean?
A: A flashing red light usually indicates an error. Consult the Goal Zero user manual for the specific error code.
Alternative Solutions
If your Sherpa 100 is beyond repair or the cost of repair is prohibitive, consider upgrading to a newer Goal Zero model with a larger capacity or more features. The Goal Zero Yeti series offers a range of options.
| Solution | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sherpa 100 Repair | Cost-effective if issue is minor | May be expensive if battery is faulty | Keeping your existing unit |
| Goal Zero Yeti 500 | Larger capacity, more features | Higher cost | Powering more devices or longer runtimes |
| Goal Zero Yeti 1000 | Significantly larger capacity | Highest cost | Extended off-grid power needs |
Get Your Goal Zero Sherpa 100 Working Again
You now have a comprehensive toolkit to diagnose and fix your Goal Zero Sherpa 100’s charging issues. Remember to start with the simple solutions – the reset and cable checks – and progress to the more advanced steps if needed.
Following this guide, you’ve learned how to:
– Identify common charging problems
– Perform basic troubleshooting steps
– Consider temperature effects
– Potentially reset the BMS
– Prevent future issues with proactive maintenance
Don’t let a dead power station ruin your next adventure. With these steps, you’ll be back to reliable power in no time!
Have you successfully fixed your Goal Zero Sherpa 100? Share your experience in the comments below to help other readers!