Question by Aaron W: How to choose charge controller for solar system?
Is there any specification difference for charge controller I need to look for (Besides amp) while using solar panel of output 24V and 12V. My application are all in 12V.
Best answer:
Answer by Lloyd J
Go to the sales person who is selling the charge controllers and ask them. You need to provide a lot more information for us to help. What type of solar panels, what type of batteries etc.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
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Amy says:
June 25, 2012 at 4:17 pm (UTC 0)
Depends on the charge controller. If you are using a PWM or shunt controller, the panel voltage needs to match the battery voltage. So you need a 12V panel and charge controller. Some charge controllers automatically check the voltage and adjust, so they may be listed as 12/24/48V. But the panel needs to be 12V. http://www.altestore.com/store/Charge-Controllers/Solar-Charge-Controllers/PWM-Type-Solar-Charge-Controllers/Morningstar-Charge-Controllers-PWM/Morningstar-SunSaver-SS-10-12V-10A-PWM-Charge-Controller/p798/
If you are using an MPPT charge controller, most of them will allow a higher voltage PV panel, and will automatically adjust the output for the battery. These tend to be more expensive, but can increase the output of the panel by up to 30%. http://www.altestore.com/store/Charge-Controllers/Solar-Charge-Controllers/MPPT-Solar-Charge-Controllers/Morningstar-MPPT-Solar-Controllers/Morningstar-SunSaver-MPPT-15A-Charge-Controller/p6185/
And as you mentioned, amps matter. Mutliply the short circuit current (Isc) of the panel by 1.25, that’s the lowest current charge controller you should buy.
Or call the AltE Store and tell us what your panel is, and we’ll point you in the right direction.