Planning Solar Panels

BFL13 wrote:
I have a 255w version of that panel I got here April 2015 for $289 plus tax, so that is an excellent price you have there.

I only use the one panel and get around 15-16 amps to the four batteries with it. That is plenty for us in the summer where we use about 70AH a day. I use an Eco-Worthy 20a MPPT controller with that one panel. Works great.

However, recently I got another controller to try it out and like it too, a Tracer. ( I was using that with a different set of panels)

If you get or plan to get two of those panels, then you can't use the 20 a Eco-W, you would need the 30a Tracer.

You are allowed to over-panel the Tracer some as it self- limits the input. With the panels flat you will be under 30 amps anyway. The Tracer has 100voc limit too, so you could choose series or parallel.

Ideally, you should have both your panels the same, but they can be different brands as long as they have very similar specs.

So I suppose you should get the one and the 30a Tracer and then if you do get another panel, your controller will still be ok for the pair.

You don't have to buy the remote, so the just Tracer itself would be about $60 less.

http://www.wegosolar.com/products.php?product=EPS%252dMPPT%252d30%252dREMOTE-30A-12%7B47%7D24V-MPPT-Solar-Charge-Controller-with-Meter

Thanks for the info guys,

I was actually thinking of going with the 40amp model, I heard a lot of positive feedback, and just in case I really want more panels?? is that a wise decision or am I exaggerating?

I have a couple of questions about the controller, I have seen the same model but with different brand names? Epsolar, Y-solar, Trace, Greesonic like this one :
https://www.amazon.ca/GreeSonic-Autoswitch-Controller-Regulator-Tracer4210A/dp/B01F2ZY36Y/ref=sr_1_27?ie=UTF8&qid=1480697287&sr=8-27&keywords=mppt+40a
I'm confused...

I made a mistake on my drawing, I don't think I can add a 265w panel near the back of my roof rack, the rear is the highest point and I barely clear the top of the opening of my garage door, I will confirm after buying the first 265w and trying to go through the opening with the panel temporarily mounted in the rear, I know the front clears ok.

The other thing is that if it does fit in the back, there's barely enough space to walk around up there since I can't walk on the panels, I have received negative and positive feedback about those slim flexible panels but they would really be perfect up there since I can walk on them, 2 or 3 x 100w + 1 x 265w
But I've also been told not to miss match solar panels... and I think this is what I would be doing right? grr this is confusing lol.

Also Do I need to see the MPPT controller all the time? or I can install it under the seat and take a peek once in a while?
I already have a Xantrex XBM battery monitor that someone just gave me on the sportsmobile forum (thanks Greg) and I installed it where I can see it, do I need anything else? (to monitor)



http://usersmanuals1.com/art/xantrex-battery-monitor-manuals/30461