solar control upgrade

[varonda]

Hi all , the photo is of my existing solar panel control system inherited with the van , do you think it would be advisable to up grade to a new MPPT controller and if so which one ? Many thanks

[mikefitz]

It would be useful to know the power rating of the panel or panels you have fitted. Is there an intention to replace or add more panels?

 

The controller you have is a basic PWM type, maximum panel input power 240 watts.

The unit has a selector for either GEL or normal lead acid batteries and is dual output, with the main output for the leisure battery and an auxiliary output for the starter battery.

Referring to the picture below.

left to right ,the battery type selector switch, a connector for the remote display, battery common negative, solar panel negative x 2, solar panel positive x 2, leisure battery positive, starter battery positive.

 

Replacing the unit with a MPPT controller will have the advantage of converting all the panel power into useful charge power, ( 20 to 30% more than a PWM controller) and have vastly improved charge profile ensuring the batteries are correctly charged.

 

The links are for MPPT controllers with equivalent power rating to your existing unit, depending on the actual or expected panel power a different model in the range may be more suitable.

 

Dual output unit and optional display,

https://www.12voltplanet.co.uk/votronic-mpp-250-duo-digital-solar-charge-controller-twin-output.html

https://www.12voltplanet.co.uk/remote-control-for-votronic-solar-charge-controllers-lcd-solar-computer-s.html

 

Single output with Bluetooth (display using phone app),

https://www.12voltplanet.co.uk/victron-smart-solar-7515-mppt-charge-controller.html

 

If the charging of the starter battery is a requirement then the single output in conjunction with a battery master would offer a similar performance to the dual output unit,

https://www.roadpro.co.uk/product/02e02-battery-maintainers/votronic-battery-master-c8451/C8451

 

In terms of ease of use, functionality, quality, and a long warranty, the Victron range far exceeds the alternatives.

 

note, the links to product were chosen at random. The controllers are available from several outlets including Amazon, shop around for the best deal.

 

Mike

[varonda]

Thanks Mikefitz for your response -- from the bits of paper that came with the van the panel appears to be a Yingli 130w polycrystalline module and I don't really want to mess about changing that , can't find any paperwork as to exact date fitted but from what I have got I would guesstimate it being fitted in 2013. I'll spend time doing a bit more reading and that coupled with your excellent advice I'll come to a decision , i think I'll make it one of my winter projects this year - too many miles to do this year .