10 best panel charges

"Panel charges" is not a well-defined term related to energy controllers, solar and wind power, portable power generators, or patio and lawn garden equipment. However, we can provide some general information related to these topics to help clarify any confusion:

  1. Energy Controllers: Energy controllers, often referred to as charge controllers, are devices used in solar power systems. They regulate the voltage and current from solar panels to prevent overcharging of batteries. There are two main types: PWM (Pulse Width Modulation) and MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) controllers, each with its own advantages and applications.

  2. Solar and Wind Power: Solar power and wind power are renewable energy sources used to generate electricity. Solar power relies on photovoltaic panels to convert sunlight into electricity, while wind power uses turbines to convert wind energy into electrical power. These sources are sustainable and environmentally friendly alternatives to fossil fuels.

  3. Generators Portable Power: Portable power generators are devices that provide a source of electricity when grid power is unavailable or in remote locations. They come in various sizes and fuel types, including gasoline, propane, diesel, and even solar-powered generators. Portable generators are commonly used for camping, emergency backup power, and outdoor activities.

  4. Patio and Lawn Garden: This category encompasses various products and equipment used for outdoor spaces, including patios and gardens.It can include items like outdoor furniture, grills, gardening tools, and landscaping equipment designed to enhance and maintain outdoor living spaces.

If you have a more specific question or if there's a particular aspect of any of these topics that you'd like to know more about, please feel free to ask, and I'll provide additional information.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best panel charges on the market
  

Zamp solar Legacy Series 140-Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit with Integrated Charge Controller and Carrying Case. Off-Grid Solar Power for RV Battery Charging - USP1002

Zamp solar

Based on 88 reviews Check latest price
  • Handcrafted in the USA; 25-year output warranty; Best-in-class solar cells; Easiest start to solar
  • No installation required; Includes everything you need; Charges most 12-volt batteries, even lithium
  • Compatible with Zamp Solar Ready RV ports; Comes with both SAE plug and alligator clips to connect
  • Integrated 10-amp digital charge controller protects your battery and lets you monitor your power
  • Kit includes: 140-watt foldable panel, 10-amp charge controller, nylon carrying case, 15-foot cable

User questions & answers

Question: will this work with my current 10-amp furrion solar port
Answer: Yes. It comes with cables to connect into the solar port
Question: Does this include the cable needed for solar ready rv’s
Answer: I can't be sure because I don't have a solar ready RV, but they do have a plug they sell that can be mounted to RV's and wired in to the electrical system. It seems reasonable that this plug is the same in solar ready RV's, it's a common SAE connector.
Question: Can this be used when Generator is running
Answer: Technically speaking, the generator and solar would both be connected to the battery bank positive and negative terminals. If it is daytime, the solar charging system has a specific output voltage. It is possible that if you choose to operate a generator at the same time, the controller for the generator output voltage may be different that the solar output. When there is a difference in potential, there is additional current flow from the highest voltage to the lower voltage source. This inter-system current exchange may or may not cause additional problems between controllers. A conservative approach may be to separate the solar system when you choose to operate the generator. That is what choice I make, as I have both systems too.
Question: Do i need anything else if i already have the zamp hookup and solar installed on my airstream. can i use this for additional charge capabilities
Answer: This is a complete solar system. It includes the panel, charge controller and wires. The charge controller regulates the power from the solar panels to the battery. Without a good charge controller, it would be too much power and damage the battery by overcharging it. If you have a Zamp sidewall port on your Airstream, all you have to do is remove the battery alligator clips this portable comes with and reveal a 2-pin plug that will go into your solar port on your RV. You can use this to supplement power when charging form other sources or you can use this by itself. It's a powerful unit and should do the job for most typical RV'ers with RV's up to 30-feet or so.

Product features

Off-Grid Solar Panels to Last a Lifetime

Our portable solar kits are the most flexible and efficient solar option. With the largest selection of portable kits on the market, you’re sure to find a solution that works for you.

Made in the USA:

Our panels are handcrafted in Bend, Oregon using the finest materials available (locally sourced whenever possible.) They are built to last 25 years or more and every panel is signed by the person who made it and tested it.

So instead of saving a few bucks now and buying a new solar kit every couple of years, invest once and charge with confidence for the next couple of decades.

Remove From Case and Unfold.

Unzip the bag and pull out the portable panel. Open the clasp and unfold the panels (except for the 45-watt portable, which is a single panel).

Pull out Legs and Set Up the Panel.

Pull out the support legs and set the panel out in direct sunlight. The panel will sit at an angle and should face the sun as directly as possible for maximum efficiency.

Connect the Panel to Your Solar Port or Battery.

Use the included SAE port to plug the kit into a Zamp Solar Ready port, or use the included alligator clamps to connect directly to the battery.

Plug & Play with Zamp Solar Ready Ports:

Most newer RV’s come with a Zamp solar port on their wall or roof. If you have one, you can just plug the panel in with the included SAE cable and start charging!

No port? No Problem!

Use the included alligator clips to attach your portable kit to any kind of 12-volt battery or battery bank (including lithium).

Got a different solar port?

Check out our Furrion adapter.

Includes Everything

Our portable solar kits include everything you need to charge a 12-volt battery or battery bank, including the panel, charge controller, wires, and connectors.

Durable Carrying Case

Every portable comes in a rugged nylon carrying case with thick padding to protect the panel when it’s not in use.

Charge Controller on EZ-View Bracket

A weather-resistant, 5-stage digital charge controller is integrated into the panel to protect your battery and mounted on an EZ-view bracket for convenient monitoring.

Smooth-Slide Support Legs

The support legs on our portable kits open and close smoothly and easily without any weird bolts or wingnuts to cut your fingers on.

Zamp Solar Legacy Series 180-Watt Portable Solar Panel Kit with Integrated Charge Controller and Carrying Case. Off-Grid Solar Power for RV Battery Charging - USP1003

Zamp solar

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price
  • Handcrafted in the USA; 25-year output warranty; Best-in-class solar cells; Easiest start to solar
  • No installation required; Includes everything you need; Charges most 12-volt batteries, even lithium
  • Compatible with Zamp Solar Ready RV ports; Comes with both SAE plug and alligator clips to connect
  • Integrated 15-amp digital charge controller protects your battery and lets you monitor your power
  • Kit includes: 180-watt foldable panel, 15-amp charge controller, nylon carrying case, 15-foot cable

User questions & answers

Question: description says 140 watts but model USP1003 should be 180 watts - which is correct
Answer: The product is a 180 watt solar panel. I ordered and received the 180 watt suitcase and it works as advertised. I saw the same description mistake but saw a post by another person verifying that the model number was correct and it was in fact the 180 watt suitcase.
Question: Does the controller have a lithium setting
Answer: Yes, it has settings for wet cell lead, AGM & lithium. Very easy to set for the appropriate battery type.
Question: Would this work for a mobile home in a mobile home park
Answer: If you utilize 12-volt batteries than yes.
Question: Will this work for 2x 6 volt batteries
Answer: Yes I’m charging two 12s It automatically adjust to 6 V when you hook it up.

Product features

Off-Grid Solar Panels to Last a Lifetime

Our portable solar kits are the most flexible and efficient solar option. With the largest selection of portable kits on the market, you’re sure to find a solution that works for you.

Made in the USA:

Our panels are handcrafted in Bend, Oregon using the finest materials available (locally sourced whenever possible.) They are built to last 25 years or more and every panel is signed by the person who made it and tested it.

So instead of saving a few bucks now and buying a new solar kit every couple of years, invest once and charge with confidence for the next couple of decades.

Remove From Case and Unfold.

Unzip the bag and pull out the portable panel. Open the clasp and unfold the panels (except for the 45-watt portable, which is a single panel).

Pull out Legs and Set Up the Panel.

Pull out the support legs and set the panel out in direct sunlight. The panel will sit at an angle and should face the sun as directly as possible for maximum efficiency.

Connect the Panel to Your Solar Port or Battery.

Use the included SAE port to plug the kit into a Zamp Solar Ready port, or use the included alligator clamps to connect directly to the battery.

Plug & Play with Zamp Solar Ready Ports:

Most newer RV’s come with a Zamp solar port on their wall or roof. If you have one, you can just plug the panel in with the included SAE cable and start charging!

No port? No Problem!

Use the included alligator clips to attach your portable kit to any kind of 12-volt battery or battery bank (including lithium).

Got a different solar port?

Check out our Furrion adapter.

Includes Everything

Our portable solar kits include everything you need to charge a 12-volt battery or battery bank, including the panel, charge controller, wires, and connectors.

Durable Carrying Case

Every portable comes in a rugged nylon carrying case with thick padding to protect the panel when it’s not in use.

Charge Controller on EZ-View Bracket

A weather-resistant, 5-stage digital charge controller is integrated into the panel to protect your battery and mounted on an EZ-view bracket for convenient monitoring.

Smooth-Slide Support Legs

The support legs on our portable kits open and close smoothly and easily without any weird bolts or wingnuts to cut your fingers on.

20A Solar Charge Controller Solar Panel Battery Intelligent Regulator with Dual USB Port 12V/24V PWM Auto Paremeter Adjustable LCD Display

Binen

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

☀️Suitable for farm solar power system, solar street light, solar patio light, solar billboards, outdoor camping solar system, ship solar system.

Specification:

*Batt voltage: DC 12V/24V Auto

*Charge /Discharge current: 20A

*Over discharge Protection: 10.7V/21.4V

*Charge recover voltage: 12.6V/25.2V

*Overcharge Floating charge: 13.7V/27.4V

*Over discharge Protection: 10.7V/21.4V

*Equalization: B01: sealed 14.4V / B02: Gel 14.2V / B03: flood 14.6V



Intelligent solar controller:

The product can automatically manage the working of solar panel and battery in solar system. For protecting the lifespan of your battery, once the voltage of the battery drop below 8V, the solar controller will turn off automatically (LCD will be unavailable at the same time).



Easy to operate and installation :

Wiring STEPS: Screw the adjustment screw counter-clockwise until the plates move down. Insert the wire into the new opening between the plate and the "top" of the Terminal hole, not under it. Screw the adjuster clockwise and the plate will move upwards thereby squishing the wire in the Terminal hole.

Installation STEPS:Connect the system in the order of 1.Battery > 2. Load > 3.PV Array in accordance with Figure, and disconnect the system in the reverse order 3. 2 .1.



Note:

<1>Please keep it in cool and well ventilated place to maintain good heat dissipation.

<2>the regulator is only suitable for lead acid batteries:OPEN, AGM, GEL, not for nickel hydride, lithium, ions, or other batteries.

<3>Make sure your battery has enough voltage for the controller to recognize the battery before first installation.

<4>The working temperature of this controller is -35°C to 60°C, during hot sunny days, the temperature outside might go up to 60-75°C. Please do keep the controller stay in cool and well-ventilated place to maintain good heat dissipation.

  • ☀☀☀20A Solar Charge controller : Binen solar charger controller are UL 1741 certified,the solar charger controller compatibility with 12V 24V system. Discharge Current: 10A,build-in industrial micro controller, automatically manage the working of solar panel and battery in solar system. Dual USB output 5V/2.5A (max), to support mobile phone chargeing.
  • ☀☀☀Multiple Protection Functions: Binen solar controller has short-circuit protection, open-circuit protection,reverse protection, over-load protection. Fully 3-stage PWM charge management, improve system efficiency and prolong the life span of the battery.
  • ☀☀☀Battery Type: The charge regulator is only suitable for lead-acid batteries: OPEN, AGM, GEL, it is not suited for nickel hydride, lithium, Liions, or other batteries. For protecting the lifespan of your battery, once the voltage of the battery drop below 8V, the solar controller will turn off automatically.
  • ☀☀☀LCD Display: Comes with a display that can clearly indicate the status and data, it can be conveniently switched modes and parameter configuration, suitable for home, industrial, commercial etc.
  • ☀☀☀Easy to Install and Operate: The charge controller should connect the battery first, then the solar panel, and finally the load! The disassembly sequence is contrary to the wiring order.Dual mosfet Reverse current protection, low heat production. ( Note: The charge controller will heat up when it is running. Please be careful to install the charger controller on a flat, well-ventilated place)

Product features

20A solar charger controller

*Rated Voltage: 12V/24V

*Discharge current: 10MA

*Max. PV Voltage: 50V

*Max input power and voltage: 260W /12V; 520W/24V

*Floating charge: 13.7V/27.4V (defaul)

*Discharge Stop: 10.7V/21.4V (defaul)

*Charge recover voltage: 12.6V/25.2V (defaul)

*Load Mode: 24 hours, 1-23 hours, 0 hour

How to adjust the float voltage?

Step 1: The system default float voltage is 13.7V, but you can change it according to your needs. Press MENU to enter the parameter page and find the floating charge voltage page.

How to adjust the float voltage?

Step 2: In floating charge voltage interface long press 3-5 seconds MENU to enter setting and using UP or DOWN to set the floating voltage

Solar Power Demystified: The Beginners Guide To Solar Power, Energy Independence And Lower Bills

Based on 971 reviews Check latest price

Morningstar - Tristar 45A Solar Charge Controller for 12V/24V/48V Batteries, Lowest Fail Rate in The Industry, Built-in Diagnostics, (TS-45)

Morningstar Corporation

Based on 154 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The TriStar Charge Controller is a three-function controller that provides reliable solar battery charging or load control or diversion regulation. The controller operates in one of these modes at a time and two or more controllers may be used to provide multiple functions. The optional TriStar meter provides system and controller information. The controller is designed for both solar home systems and professional applications. Simple mechanical interface - knockouts provided, #2 AWG wire lugs, Compatible with sealed and flooded batteries, Constant voltage series PWM algorithm, Accessory digital meter connection via, J-11 phone jack, NEMA 1 indoor closure. Digital meter for this item see ASIN B0052P2AA6 & ASIN B0052P3G3G

  • SYSTEM COMPATIBILITY: Designed for use in larger systems. Parallel scalability of chargers and load controllers for large, hybrid systems. Maximum solar, load or diversion current: up to 60A (depending on model; see model comparison chart)
  • UNIQUE FEATURES: Highest peak efficiency for off-grid controllers. Ideal for use in cloud-connected, networked systems through communications protocols—“speaks” Modbus, and SNMP (with optional EMC-1). Built-in meter on TS 60M; available option on other models (order TS-M-2). Remote meter option (order TS-RM-2)
  • THREE FUNCTIONS IN ONE CONTROLLER: Provides ultra-reliable PWM solar battery charging, load control, or diversion regulation
  • EXTENSIVE PROTECTION AND DIAGNOSTICS BUILT-IN: Built-in extensive electronic protection against surge, short-circuit, over-current, reverse polarity conditions. Advanced self-diagnostics warns against installation or user errors. Custom programmability, with or without a PC. Data logging- up to 256 days worth
  • LOWEST HARDWARE FAILURE RATE IN THE INDUSTRY, BACKED BY A FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY: Most Morningstar products ever built are still in use, some for over 25 years, thanks to smarter digital design, superior internal engineering, and over-spec components.  Advanced thermal engineering eliminates cooling fans which can fail, suck in dirt, shorten component life and waste precious solar electricity.  Industrial-strength build quality inside and out, right to the controller’s steel exterior casing

User questions & answers

Question: starting off with a 600W solar array and probably will expend later will this unit be too much for the setup? does it come with the temperature cable
Answer: There is some confusion about the add-on display "meter" you can purchase for with this controller. I have two Tristar-45 controllers and the TS-RM-2 remote meter. But people should realize this meter is a "monitor panel" not a "remote control panel" in the usual sense. Neither the TS-RM-2 or the TS-M-2 (the same unit without the 100 foot long RJ11 "remote extension") will actually control the Tristar 's operational settings, To change the controller's settings you still have to use the DIP switches inside the Tristar controller (which is easy to do) and once you've got the DIP switches set to the optimum configuration for your system, there is never any reason to change those settings unless you modify your system with different components.But the meter is nice to have because the screen lets you see everything that is happening with your solar power system: How much energy you are generating at any moment, the total amount over time, where your system is in the charging cycle at all times, how much power your panels are putting out, etc..HUMBLE OPINION SECTION: About the battery temperature sensing cable. While I agree the Tristar controllesr should come with a temp sensor cable for those who really need it, but I do feel there is more concern about monitoring the battery temperature than is called for -- unless your battery bank is located in an area where air temperatures regularly exceed 90 degrees F or drop below 40 degrees F. If the battery bank is sitting in 50 to 80 degree F air (the optimum range for battery charging) the temperature of the battery case and the terminals -- the only points most temp sensors can monitor during charging -- will vary only a few degrees from the surrounding air temp and so any changing compensation applied is going to be pretty minuscule. Still, it doesn't hurt to have a battery temp sensor in place and the Tristars do have a terminal inside for connecting one. Morningstar is being penny-wise and pound- foolish by not including one. They don't cost much and for some people the lack of one being included in the package might make the difference in deciding to purchase this high-quality, well-built and utterly reliable charge controller. I tried several other, cheaper controllers and they all failed within a year, of daily use, most in 6 months or less. In a couple of cases I had grave doubts the accuracy of their display readouts and if they were actually doing what their panels claimed they were doing.
Question: Does this controller come with the digital read out panel shown in the item photo
Answer: Sorry, but the person who answered "Yes" to this questiont is simply NOT correct. The real answer is NO -- the Morningstar Tristar controllers do *not* come from the factory with the digital read-out control panel included. That panel must be purchased separately (usually for about $100 or so). Now, some sellers may "bundle" the digital panel with the controller in a package deal, but you rarely see that the packaged would cost more than the standalone controller which the question was asked about.
Question: Can I run two 160W panels with a 18.5Vmmp and a VOC of 22.2 in series to charge a 150Ah 12V battery bank with this controller
Answer: You need to put them in parallel Each panel added in parallel adds its amp rating to the system Each added in series adds its volt rating to the system For example two panels in parallel with 9 amp rating will make 18 amps and 18.5 mmp In series it produce double voltage but only 9 amps. Unless you use a mppt charge controller. Connecting these two panels in series will also work but you would be just as well off with only one panel
Question: Will this unit handle charge controlling and load controlling at the same time
Answer: I downloaded the manual PDF, as you should, I believe it said it doesn't do both at the same time, but you should check for yourself. From the manual..."There are three distinct and independent operating modes programmed into each TriStar. Only one mode of operation can be selected for an individual TriStar. If a system requires a charging controller and a load controller, two TriStars must be used."

EpRec MPPT 100A 12V/24V Auto Focus Tracking Solar Panel Charge Controller Regulator with Dual USB Port,LCD Display, Model:Wanderer BL912 (Blue)

Product description

Function:



Always keep the battery on fill voltage condition.

Reverse Polarity Protection for Battery

Reverse Polarity Protection for Solar Panels

When the battery voltage is low, the controller will automatically cut off the load from the system. If the voltage of battery is back to normal and the load will restart working.

Thunder protection

According to the battery voltage grade, the controller can automatically set charge-off voltage, the load-off voltage, the load- restore voltage. (The parameter is default under 25℃ condition, locked by the CPU procedure, cannot adjust.)

The controller will automatically compensate the temperature of the charging voltage according to the changes of ambient temperature.



Package Includes:



1 x MPPT Solar Charge Controller

1 x English User Manual



Product Questions:



1. Q: How many watts (W) of solar panels can be connected

A: 100A mppt,Maximum 1200W for 12V battery system. Maximum 2400W for 24V battery system.



2. Q: Does this controller support lithium batteries?

A: The controller can be used for lead-acid and lithium batteries.



3. Q: My solar panel is 36V 200W, can I charge 12V battery?

A: To charge a 12V battery, the working voltage of the solar panel can be between 17V and 23V(Voc), and for a 24V battery, the working voltage of the solar panel can be between 36V and 46V.(Voc)

Please make sure that the working voltage of the power supply and solar panels are within this range. If it is too high, the controller will be damaged.



4. Q: Can the inverter be connected to the load side of the controller?

A: Please connect the inverter directly to the battery and not to the load terminal of the controller.



  • The solar regulator is only suitable for lead acid batteries: OPEN, AGM, GEL. It is NOT suited for nickel metal hydride, lithium ions or other batteries.
  • There are many kinds of MPPT technology,Our Solar Controller Mppt technology is to detect the maximum charging current,not the boost type or the automatic charging of the solar panel voltage. Compared with normal solar charge controller, this MPPT controller could increase efficiency by 10%-30%.
  • When the battery voltage is low, the controller will automatically cut off the load from the system. If the voltage of battery is back to normal and the load will restart working.
  • This MPPT controller has perfect SOC function, control charge current, and supply power to the loads.Prevent the battery from over-charging , over-discharging and reverse charging to solar panels during nights.
  • Any problem please contact with us , we will try our best to solve your problem and make you satisfied within 24 hours.

Renogy Wanderer 10 Amp 12V/24V PWM Negative Ground Solar Charge Controller Regulator Compatible with Bluetooth Module

Renogy

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Renogy Wanderer 10A solar charge controller integrates efficient PWM charging to increase battery life and improve system performance. Designed with a simple interface for ease of use the controller uses an LCD to notify users of battery information. This advanced charge controller is designed for off-grid solar applications and can be used with a 12V/24V battery or battery bank. The compact size of the controller makes installation a breeze. The controller comes equipped with fully comprehensive self-diagnostics and electronic protection functions to prevent damage from installation mistakes or system faults.

  • Optimized for a 12V/24V system; Deep Cycle Sealed (AGM), Gel, Flooded and Lithium battery option ready.
  • Smart 4-Stage PWM charging (Bulk, Boost, Float, and Equalization) increases battery life and improves system performance. Intelligent protection against reverse polarity, overcharging, short-circuit, and reverse current.
  • Backlit LCD screen displays system operation, diverse load control, and error codes.
  • Integrated 5V 2A USB ports to charge USB devices. Compact in size makes it easy to install virtually anywhere.
  • Capable of charging over-discharged lithium batteries. Integrated RS232 port allows communication with BT-1 Bluetooth module and usage of Renogy DC Home smartphone app.
  • Power Source Type: Solar-Powered
  • Wanderer10A|30A Installation Notes: The default starting position of the Wanderer controller terminal hatches are closed (in the UP position) that could mistakenly look like an open wire hatch. Make sure to FIRST lower each terminal hatch by screwing the terminals counterclockwise (CCW) to expose the wire terminal hatch to the open position. THEN secure each cable by rotating the screws clockwise (CW) to the closed position.
  • Simple Install: Fully open the hatch (CCW), insert the appropriate wires, and completely close the hatch (CW).

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a way to adjust the float voltage on this unit
Answer: No, the float voltage on mine is 13.8V no matter the battery type setting. There is a manual on the Renogy website that lists float at 13.2V when set for Flooded batteries. However that is not the case on my unit, which I bought in 2016.
Question: Can anyone explain the middle led's lighting sequence? What are the possible states of display, blinking, on, what do they mean
Answer: The middle LED's lighting sequence is as follows: Green ON when battery level is in the right range. Green slowly flashing when battery level is full. Yellow ON when battery level is low. Red ON when loads cut off. Hope this helps.
Question: max number of 100w panels for this controller
Answer: This will depend on 2 things: 1 - what is the amp rating of your controller. &. 2 - what is the nominal voltage output of the panels. A 30 amp controller can handle a maximum of 3.6 100 watt panels of 12 volts (100 watts / 12 volts = 8.33 amps, 30 amp controller / 8.33 amp panel = 3.6 panels per controller). Of course, you can't have .6 panels so the safest load would be 3 panels. Yes, math is VERY IMPORTANT when being safe with electronics.
Question: The description says "These are Positive Ground Controllers." How do you ground a system on the positive side
Answer: Please ignore this if you're not interested in a dissertation on grounding. First, THIS is a NEGATIVE "ground" controller, so that's GOOD. Why? "Ground" is a misleading term. I've designed stuff for NASA spacecraft that had connections called "ground". Whaaat? We're going to run an extension cord to the spacecraft, so we can keep it tied to a metal pipe stuck in the dirt? Nope. "Ground" is just what electronics folks usually call a COMMON POINT the circuitry is referenced to. It doesn't necessarily have anything to do with the ground we walk on. Electrical stuff works by having two sides, positive and negative, with a voltage difference between them, the "pressure" that makes current flow. Electrical power folks tie one side to the dirt your house sits on, for safety. Your house has water pipes and stuff that's pretty well connected to the dirt. If you grab a water pipe and the 110V ground at the same time there's no voltage difference, so current doesn't flow through you and hurt you. 110V is 10x higher than a solar panel voltage so it's a lot more dangerous. Tying one side to the dirt was a very good idea. Long, long ago, and far, far away, electrical power folks chose the negative side to connect to the dirt, and most stuff made since has pretty much matched that. Then some folks decided to make "positive ground" devices, because for their designs it was easier and cheaper. Some of us think they should have been spanked. It caused all this "positive ground" and "negative ground" malarkey. On to solar power systems. Think of it like this: A controller has electronically controlled switches in it. One switch connects the solar panel to the battery to charge it and disconnects when the battery is full. Another switch connects the load to the battery when you want the load turned on. In a "negative ground" system, the terminals of the panel, battery and load called "minus" or "negative" are all tied together, and the controller switches the positive side connections. Since many loads are connected together on the minus side to ground (dirt) this is a GOOD THING. In a "positive ground" system it's the opposite. The positive side of everything is tied together, and the controller switches the negative side connections. Imagine this: If you connect the battery negative terminal and the load negative terminal both to ground (shorted together) and the controller switch is between them, what happens when the switch opens? That's right, NOTHING. The switch is shorted out by your ground connections so it can't disconnect the load. So that's what's wrong with a positive ground controller. Everyone is used to tying negative together and to ground and they do that and it screws up the controller. But a positive ground controller can be used as long as you don't connect the battery and panel to *anything* except the controller. For example, your van's battery negative is connected to the chassis of your van, and so are the negative sides of all the lights and devices in your van. JUST DON'T TIE THE SOLAR PANEL OR SOLAR BATTERY NEGATIVES TO YOUR VAN CHASSIS TOO. You CAN tie the controller's load output negative to your van chassis, as long as you don't connect any. other. point. in the solar charging system to chassis too. With a "negative ground" controller you don't have to worry about any of this malarkey. You can tie the battery, panel, load negatives all to chassis without any problems. This is why NEGATIVE GROUND CONTROLLERS ARE BETTER. Sorry for the lengthy explanation. I hope folks can follow this and it helps them understand this "ground" stuff.

Product features

Renogy Wanderer

The Renogy Wanderer 10A solar charge controller integrates efficient PWM charging to increase battery life and improve system performance. Designed with a simple interface for ease of use the controller uses an LCD to notify users of battery information. This advanced charge controller is designed for off-grid solar applications and can be used with a 12V/24V battery or battery bank. The compact size of the controller makes installation a breeze.

Specification

Layout

  1. LCD Screen
  2. Select Button
  3. Enter Button
  4. USB Ports
  5. Load Terminal
  6. Battery Terminal
  7. PV Terminal
  8. RS232 Communication Port

RS232 Communication Port

Integrated RS232 port allows communication with BT-1 Bluetooth module (Not Included) and usage of Renogy DC Home App.

Compatible Battery Types

  1. Sealed
  2. Gel
  3. Flooded
  4. Lithium

USB Port

5V 2A USB Ports

Sunway Solar Panels Charge Controller 12V Battery Regulator 7A for Safe Protection of 12Volt Solar Power Battery Charger, Solar Trickle Charger & Maintainer and Solar Powered System Kit

Based on 216 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Solar charge regulator is designed to control the charging from solar panel into battery, and the power draw from the battery to outputs. Therefore keep the whole solar system at proper working condition. This solar charge regulator can be best used with our series solar panel with quick connector end.

Technical data:

Operating Temperature :-10℃ to 42℃

Humidity:≤80 %

Max. input Voltage :22V

Max. array current:7A

Over discharge protection:11V +/- 0.3V

Over charge protection:15.5V +/- 0.5V

How to Charge:

Please always connect the battery first.

Connect Solar panel, 12V rechargeable battery, and application (if any) as describe in the image of No.4 .

When solar panel is connected to the solar charge regulator, the charging LED will go on to show that the 12V rechargeable battery is receiving charge from the solar panel

The charge regulator provides following protections for the whole system

Over-discharge protection: When activated, “Low Voltage” indicator will go on, the charge regulator will shut off power output to prevent damage to the battery. In such case, Please stop using any application.

Over-charge protection: When activated, “High Voltage” indicator will go on, the charge regulator will shut off power input from solar panel to battery. Please disconnect solar panel from the charge regulator.

This solar charge regulator can be mounted through its three mounting holes

Caution:

1.Please do not short circuit and/or reverse the polarity of the load, the solar panel, & the battery.

2.Place the charge regulator at a cool and ventilated place. Avoid contact with water.

AFTER EACH USE: Disconnect the Charge Regulator from the battery and solar panels. Always disconnect the battery first.

  • [For 12V DC Solar Systems]--This 7A solar battery charge Regulator use only for 12 volt DC solar power systems, solar panels and 12 volt rechargeable batteries protection. {IMPORTANT: Always Connect The Battery First and Disconnect Last.} If you need a 12V DC Quick Connect 16FT Extension Cable, please check the ASIN: B06X6LJTD6 .
  • [Solar Power Input 100W Max.]--Max. input Voltage:22 VDC, Max. Current:7 AMP, solar Panel 100 Watt Maximum. Power Output: 12 VDC Battery. It can work with 5w 10w 20w 30w 50w 60 watts 100watt solar panel.
  • [LED Indicators For Easy Monitoring]--This solar battery controller integrated with 3 LED indicators(green.yellow,and red) for low voltage(over discharge protection),charging and high voltage(over charge protection).
  • [Quick and Easy Connection]--This solar battery charger controller coming with Versatile quick connect and quick disconnect clips SAE Plug Cable, quick and easy connection to solar panel,battery and load appliance. Users don’t worry about the Positive(+) and Negative(-). Get a 'sae polarity reverse adapter' if your polarity is reversed,please check the asin B07GPGPTFV.
  • [Full Protection and More Safe]--This solar charging regulator protects over charge protection, over discharge protection, over load protection. {If you need SAE extension cable, battery clamps,male/female cigarette lighter plug and 12V Adapter for solar controller solar power system, please check the Asin B06X6LJTD6.}

User questions & answers

Question: Does this solar charge controller work with sunforce 15Watt solar panel
Answer: Yes. I directly wired two 5V DC muffin fans to the solar panel bypassing the controller. Since all they do is vent hot air out of the chicken coop, I didn't need a battery. When the sun is out, it gets hot in there and the fans come on. When the sun goes behind the clouds or sets in the evening, the fans quit. I didn't need constant power and the fans were cheap enough that I didn't worry that they would last forever, just long enough to get through the heat! Oh and they are still working, only I reversed direction and they circulate the heat now that its colder.
Question: Does this Sunway solar controller waterproof
Answer: Yes,the panel is waterproof.
Question: Does this work with sunforce,harbor freight tools schumacher, coleman,eco-worthy,battery tender,nature power allpowers solar panels trickle charger
Answer: Hi David, if the heated pet water bowl is DC load, you need one small 12v battery, pls connect the battery, pet water bowl and solar panel to the charge controller, then the kit will bring power to the pet water bowl. If the pet water bowl is AC load, then you need one additional inverter to convert the voltage from 12v to 110v for the pet water bowl. Any further question, pls feel free to contact us [email protected].
Question: Does this sunway solar power regulator protect my solar power battery system at night
Answer: The open circuit voltage (no load) will be 22.4 volts, but the voltage under load will be much lower, depending on the load. The charge controller will assure that the voltage at the battery does not exceed the 14 to 15 volt range while charging, and will also drop the voltage to the 13.8 volt "float" charge level when charging is complete. The controller will also prevent the discharging of the battery when the solar panel is not in the sun.

Solar & 12 Volt Power for beginners: off grid power for everyone

Createspace Independent Publishing Platform

Based on 653 reviews Check latest price

Victron Energy SmartSolar MPPT 100V 20 amp 12-24-Volt Solar Charge Controller (Bluetooth)

Victron Energy

Based on 524 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A solar charger gathers energy from your solar panels, and stores it in your batteries. Using the latest, fastest technology, SmartSolar maximises this energy-harvest, driving it intelligently to achieve full charge in the shortest possible time. SmartSolar maintains battery health, extending its life. The SmartSolar charge controller will even recharge a severely depleted battery. It can operate with a battery voltage as low as 0 Volts, provided the cells are not permanently sulphated or otherwise damaged.

User questions & answers

Question: What is the default battery type setting if I choose to plug and play without messing with the blutooth app or an additional control module
Answer: AGM. That being said, the app takes about 20 seconds to set up and use, so it's worth the time.
Question: what's the maximum load wattage I can put on this? I know the max charge current is 20a, but is the load fused, or just pulls from battery
Answer: To correct multiple incorrect answers on this question: The fuse is to protect the charge controller from reverse battery connection: it DOES NOT protect the load output, nor does it protect the charging circuit to the battery, nor does it protect the PV input. Please see the user manual available at victronenergy.com/support-and-downloads/manuals.
Question: When using an a/c battery charger/converter, do i hook it's output to the load side of the controller
Answer: You can have multiple charging inputs to the batteries. They will work just fine independent of each other. Typical motorhome has alternator, inverter/charger and solar charger connected.
Question: The item i received says 48v on the side. will it work with 12v/24v systems
Answer: Even though the mppt has the 48V stamp, it will work with 12V 24V & 48V systems. The 48V is to differentiate it from the 12V/24V only mppt. Here is documetation from Victron showing it will work with all three Voltages. https://www.victronenergy.com/upload/documents/Datasheet-SmartSolar-charge-controller-MPPT-75-10,-75-15,-100-15,-100-20_48V-EN.pdf

Latest Reviews

View all