Max batteries connected to Wanderer controller

ken
New Member

Posts: 3

Max batteries connected to Wanderer controller Sept 15, 2016 8:18:40 GMT -8

Post by ken on Sept 15, 2016 8:18:40 GMT -8

currently installed:
4 ea 100 watt panels
1 ea Wanderer solar charge controller
4 ea 12 volt UB121100 110 AH batteries
1 ea Samlex 300 watt inverter.

what is the maximum amount of storage batteries that could be used with this system?

System works really well most days. And with a good sunny day I can fully charge storage and operate load. But we are having fog almost all day This summer. However even on foggy days by 9 am I am generating enough power to keep my load up. ( load is 60 watt) So thinking more storage could carry me few more hours. Or other suggestions appreciated.
thank you

jsb2000
Solar Addict

Posts: 169

Max batteries connected to Wanderer controller Sept 16, 2016 6:24:08 GMT -8

Post by jsb2000 on Sept 16, 2016 6:24:08 GMT -8

In my opinion, in general, one typical deep cycle marine battery (around 100AH) per one 100 watt panel is a good match. You might be able to add one more battery to the system, but any more than that would probably go beyond your ability to maintain a well charged bank.

Don't get me wrong...you can add as many batteries as you want. But the whole idea is being able to keep that total bank charged and healthy. The more batteries you add, the longer you have to charge them. Again, in my opinion, 4 for 4 is a great match. You might be able to do 4 for 5 with enough available sunlight and/or a supplemental charger for those especially foggy/rainy/snowy stretches. But 4 for 6 or more? That's just asking for batteries that are hardly ever charged to their full capacity and, accordingly, experience extra wear.

spiderbob
Solar Addict

Posts: 229

Max batteries connected to Wanderer controller Sept 25, 2016 21:42:13 GMT -8

Post by spiderbob on Sept 25, 2016 21:42:13 GMT -8

As jsb2000 said, the more batteries you have the more panels you will need (and sun time) to keep them charged, I think many overdo their storage capacity and then wonder why they can't all get charged. It's a fact your solar will produce better during the winter months, but you also have to deal with less light during the winter. You need a well matched system. I want my batteries to be in a float mode before end of day, if I keep adding batteries, this won't happen, in my case (without adding more solar) THEN, keep in mind you will get to a point where you will have to upgrade your controller. Oh, what a web we weave.