Thanks for all your responses!
2oldman wrote:
OK that's weird. 100% of us have the charge controller separate from the panel, and in a well-protected space.
The solar panel is not mounted, it's portable so that's why it's on the panel. So you just unfold it and attach to batteries. I believe it's 150W? Might only be 100W.
jrnymn7 wrote:
I recommend a psw inverter, regardless.
Your batteries will snear at that 7a charger. Check these out... you'll need to monitor and turn off manually (with your switch):
Megawatt Adjustable Voltage power supply
Even better, buy one of these:
VEC 1093 DBD
I have yet to find a reasonably priced (under $300) PSW inverter. I'm looking to spend half of that max.
In terms of battery charging, I don't want to have to sit there and watch my batteries. I want a plug in and forget option for a charger. The black and decker is an option since I could just leave it on I suppose.
MEXICOWANDERER wrote:
What are you going to use to recharge your battery out in the bush?
Solar panel
jrnymn7 wrote:
How do you plan on powering the 12v fuse box? Off the batteries only? This is basically what I do. (Shore power/gennie or inverter runs all the 120v stuff).
Yes, entirely off the battery.
smkettner wrote:
You are spending too much on an inverter. 300 watts max. Not just the inverter but connecting wire, fuses etc. all make for additional complexity(mo money). I understand Apple is sensitive to MSW. I recommend Go Power sine wave.
Genius is fine although a bit light for charging with a generator. 30 amp minimum IMO if using a generator. I recommend Progressive Dynamics with Wizard or IOTA with IQ controller.
As long as you are adding a fuse box... get a combo unit http://www.bestconverter.com/4000-Series-Compact-Power-Center_c_138.html
I'm good with only 300W, but the pSW inverter is about $220. Significantly more than my $75 option (although undoubtedly better)
I won't be charging with a generator, only shore power.
Combo unit = big $. I'm thinking basic auto fuse box for about $20. They'll be right next to each other and I have lots of space.
pianotuna wrote:
We need more details on the existing converter. It may well be better than the stand alone charger that you are considering.
How many amp-hours is the battery bank?
I agree with other posters, for the list of items you wish to power a 300 watt pure sine wave would be a better choice.
Here is a pic of my existing converter. My understanding it's only a one stage bulk charge at 3amps until 12.7v:
Battery bank is about 140AH. Is there a low cost psw inverter (Under $150?)
