Almot wrote:
obiwancanoli wrote:
If each panel has the capacity to provide 8.7 amps of charge, I've read that without the MPPT controller, I could lose up to 30% of those amps in the process, and thus, it would seem to take longer for the batteries to recharge, or to maintain their charge. In times of limited sunlight, it seemed wise to make the best use of the tools available, and it appeared such a controller would improve the charging process.
Q 1. I doubt you are losing anywhere near 30% with PWM and your present panels, unless wires are really thin - both before and after controller. Need more details on wiring.
Q 2. If limited sunshine affects your charging, you need more panels. Not necessarily a different controller. First you need to check whether your charging is really poor.
My thinking, too... first to get installed is the Victron-712 Voltmeter. I can then more accurately observe the status of current flooded batteries - which, IMO, are due for replacement anyway. A Victron 100 A controller would reveal if additional solar would be needed, and assuming this is so, a controller with greater capacity is necessary to handle the additional 340-600 W panels, 24 V, needed on the roof, taking into account the wiring gauge and distance between all components. Existing panels are 12V.
