Forum Discussion

dakonthemountai's avatar
dakonthemountai
Explorer
Mar 02, 2017

MPPT solar charge controller recommendaion

Hi All,

I know,... yet another solar power question! I've done quite a bit of research and received some good information here, so thanks for all that so far! After considerable time researching this all I am now convinced completely that I want an MPPT.

The Question: I've seen 30amp MPPT controllers from Tracer for $136 all the way up past the Morningstar and others up to over $700! Why such a difference in prices? (other than perhaps a few bells and whistles) Do any of you have a specific recommendation based on your own use? I'm going to be charging 2 AGM batteries and my use is lights, furnace, fans, 12v TV/DVR, and water pump. I want a 30 amp to allow for expansion later if wanted/needed. Cost of course is a consideration.

Thanks in advance!...

Dak
Truck Campers
  • hedge's avatar
    hedge
    Explorer
    Mar 03, 2017
    I currently have the tracer and have purchased the Morningstar to replace it. I have no real issue with the Tracer other than I couldn't fit my 4 gauge wires in the lugs. Not entirely sure why I decided to buy the MS but I had the money so it seemed like a good idea at the time.

    When you compare the two side by side, the MS seems much higher quality.

    PS, the tracer is sold under many names, the one above in fact looks like a tracer B series. Anything with EPSolar, but Renogy also rebrands them and I believe WindyNation as well.
  • TucsonJim's avatar
    TucsonJim
    Explorer II
    Mar 03, 2017
    I went with a 40A MPPT controller from Solar Epic which I purchased off of Amazon for $193. It allows up to 150VDC from the array. currently I'm feeding it with three 100W panels for an input of about 63V with good solar conditions. Here's a picture of my set up:



    And here's a link to the controller

    Solar Epic Controller

    Jim
  • Boatycall's avatar
    Boatycall
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    I've built three solar systems using the Morning Star 45amp MPPT controllers. None have failed, and they are very quick to respond to changes in solar output, eg, clouds coming and going.

    They are also very flexible, allowing up to 150vdc input to be MPPT'd down to 12vdc. This has the benefit of using higher voltage panels and consequently, lower loss due to cable resistance from the panels to the controller. I'm currently running 600w of solar on my trailer @96vdc input to the controller.

    On a side note, I also love the remote monitoring panel. My controller is right next to the batteries to again promote the shortest cable distance/lowest loss possible. The monitor is at the other end of my trailer by the front side access door.

    This pics are a little dated, before I cleaned things up/finished--

    Panels on the roof - 4 total


    Batteries, Inverter and Solar controller (before I had mounted the monitor remotely)


    Monitor's new home by the front access door
  • dakonthemountai's avatar
    dakonthemountai
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    Thank you Fpoole. I've read good things about Blue Sky. I like the panels with the display built in also.

    Dak
  • fpoole's avatar
    fpoole
    Explorer
    Mar 02, 2017
    I'm going with a Blue Skies, but I'll be using the 40amp one, but apparently it's a good one...
    http://www.blueskyenergyinc.com/

    hope that helps...
    Had a Zamp 30amp... but I added stuff..

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