cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 

MPPT solar charge controller recommendaion

dakonthemountai
Explorer
Explorer
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
2018 GMC Denali "Extreme" and 23' EVO 2050T Travel Trailer
Escapee member #224325-Since 1992
17 REPLIES 17

Boatycall
Explorer
Explorer
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
'15 F450, 30k Superhitch, 48" Supertruss, 19.5's, Torklift Fast Guns
'12 Eagle Cap 1160, 800watts solar, Tristar MPPT, Magnum Hybrid 3k Inverter
'15 Wells Cargo 24' Race Trailer, 600 watts Solar, TriStar MPPT, Xantrex 2kw inverter
'17 Can Am X3 XDS Turbo

dakonthemountai
Explorer
Explorer
Thank you Fpoole. I've read good things about Blue Sky. I like the panels with the display built in also.

Dak
2018 GMC Denali "Extreme" and 23' EVO 2050T Travel Trailer
Escapee member #224325-Since 1992

fpoole
Explorer
Explorer
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..
Frank Poole
Roam'n ROG (Full Timer since Oct '15)
2016 RAM 5500, C/c, 6.7 Diesel, AISIN HD 6-spd, 19.5 DRW, 72 Gal fuel, 4x4, 10’ Alum FB, 440 Amps, 4.10 Axle
2016 AF 990 640-Solar/10-6v Batts
GlowStep Stow N’ Go, E-Bike
RS1 Buggy
frank

Pooles website