Charge Controllers

What does a charge controller do?

If the energy from the solar panel is connected directly to the battery, the battery may be overcharged. The charge controller monitors battery voltage, limits the charging current and protects the battery. There are two main types: PWM and MPPT. The catalog includes one product of each type.

PWM vs. MPPT

• PWM: Simpler in structure; suitable for small systems where the panel voltage is close to the battery voltage.
• MPPT: Tracks the panel's most efficient operating point; gives better efficiency in systems where the panel voltage is higher than the battery voltage.

Selection criteria

• System voltage: 12 V, 24 V or 48 V
• Current rating (A): The current of the panel array must be within the device's limit.
• Panel input voltage limit
• Battery type: charging profile for lithium or gel batteries
• Extra features such as a display, USB output and communication

Use in Antalya

In off-grid uses such as caravans, boats, vineyard houses and highland cabins, managing battery charging correctly directly affects system life. In high temperatures, the charge controller must be mounted in a ventilated place.

Wiring and protection

The charge controller must have a suitable fuse or circuit breaker on both the panel and battery sides. The battery cable should be kept short and of adequate cross-section, and the device should not be placed next to heating batteries and inverters. If a battery temperature sensor is available, using it improves charging quality.

Panel power should be kept below the maximum value the device supports; otherwise the device will limit output or may be damaged. As the battery bank grows, the charging current grows too, so the device capacity should be chosen with future expansion in mind.

After the system is installed, charging current and battery voltage values should be observed for a few days and, if necessary, the charging parameters adjusted according to the battery manufacturer's recommendation. Cable connections are re-tightened once within the first month.

Solar Nexo

Solar Nexo sizes the panel, battery and charge controller together; it provides installation and technical support for off-grid systems.