Where is best location for solar controller
I'm putting together a new solar system for use with my Class C. I had a Renogy 100W solar suitcase which I had extended with a second 100W panel... this worked great until it was stolen this week :(...
Forum Discussion
westend wrote:
If you are considering an MPPT controller, there is better efficiency by using a larger, nominal 24V solar panel, than 2 X 100W panels. For the smaller, nominal 12V panels, you won't gain much buying a more expensive MPPT charge controller. Nominal 24V panels typically operate at 36V or so. To get the most out of the harvest, an MPPT charge controller is warranted.
FWIW, I have a 235W panel and a Morningstar MPPT-15 charge controller. It harvests 15 amps on a bright, sunny day when the batteries are not full.
Charge controllers are more efficient when mounted as close to the batteries as possible.
I'm sorry westend but I have to pipe in here. Depending on where you live is the difference. The best prices I find on solar panels is solarblvd.com. Shipping 2 140 watt panels (FedEx) is way cheaper than 1 280 watt panel (Truck Freight). 2 140's "in series" equal 1 280 and easier to handle.
By the way, #2 is best choice. Here is a suggestion Morningstar SS-MPPT-15L
Mount in the bottom of your properly vented battery box and hydrogen is not a problem.
- Jeff
