Solar charge controller selection help needed
I am looking to put in a solar system that will produce about 30 amps per day. I choose a semi-flexible 135 watt panel made by Sunpower which meets my capacity needs. My only problem is choosing t...
Forum Discussion
westend wrote:
Edit: I finally got it. You were thinking of connecting the controller "load" output to the 12 V distribution panel. You assumed that the current from the solar controller in combination with the existing charger would overload the distribution panel. In my neck of the woods that is called "going to Duluth by way of Mankato"-not the right direction.
Connect the solar controller's output terminals directly to the battery with a fuse or circuit breaker in place to interrupt the circuit and protect the wire. Start thinking about how you want to bring fat cables to the battery. Maybe, at the same time, upgrade your connection wiring from converter to battery. If you use a bus, both can be accomplished.
I'd suggest to also consider a switch or manual circuit breaker between the solar module and th3e solar controller. It may be necessary to work on things in the future and disconnecting the module output with the flip of a finger is very convenient.
If you've looked at any solar installations you will see that most try to locate the solar controller as close to the battery as possible. That is a wonderful idea.
Eeek! NOW I am EXTRA confused.
In regrads to the battery, I was thinking of bringing it inside. I hate having it sit on the tongue. I originally bought an AGM for that very purpose.
