Forum Discussion
BFL13
May 21, 2014Explorer II
greenrvgreen wrote:
IMO, a "real world test" must be done with a load on the batts equal or GREATER than the capability of the panels. AFAIK, I've never "recharged" my batteries, but I'm constantly in the process of trying to replace what I'm constantly taking.
+1 on the PWM with 12v panels. I was surprised by how efficient that combo is.
You will note in the OP that the 12.2 volt test was done with battery loaded. Had over 100a load compared with about 24a in from solar. You still have to wait until the 100a or whatever load takes the battery voltage back down to the level you want to measure MPPT performance at.
You can do "replacement" every day and get however close to full each day that gets you, depending on the weather etc. Every so often you must do a full 100% "overcharge" (equalization type of charge works for this) or your batts will get sulfated permanently losing some capacity.
Various techniques available for doing that, including by-passing the controller with a "split bank" method if still camping.
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