Solar plan
i read all of the posts of the solar installs and try to read everything that comes through. I didn't buy a trimetric or anything else to measure my use but some suggest matching it to the battery amp...
Forum Discussion
I think once you get around 300W and if you have the roof real estate, the 24V nominal panels and MPPT start making a lot of sense. I know there are a lot of MPPT-haters on the Forum and most, for their own use, PMW works well. That doesn't make using the larger modules and MPPT a bad choice. Yes, a good MPPT controller costs more but module prices are lower/watt and most of the better controllers have excellent functionality.
I'd suggest to use lengths of MC4 to a combiner box and then use heavier cables to the controller. The MC4 wire is built to be out in the weather and connection is seamless.
IME, with anything around 400 W on the roof or greater, your batteries should be full before nightfall. It would take a big energy use to get them low enough that they couldn't be replenished if you have adequate sun.
I'd suggest to use lengths of MC4 to a combiner box and then use heavier cables to the controller. The MC4 wire is built to be out in the weather and connection is seamless.
IME, with anything around 400 W on the roof or greater, your batteries should be full before nightfall. It would take a big energy use to get them low enough that they couldn't be replenished if you have adequate sun.
